How to Fix NES Nintendo Systems

Cleaning your Games

• 1

  Spritz some window cleaner onto a cotton swab. Be careful not to saturate it, use just enough to moisten the surface.

• 2

  Run the cotton swab over the surface of the 72-pin cartridge strip using gentle pressure.

• 3

  Repeat this process using a new cotton swab each time until the cotton swab comes out clean.

• 4

  Allow the cartridge to dry before inserting into your NES. Once it's dry, load it into your NES and turn the console on. If the game works, your work is done. If it doesn't, try this process on a couple of different cartridges. If the problem persists, it's time to take your NES apart.

Replacing the 72-pin Connector

• 5

  Disconnect your NES from your TV and electrical outlet. Push the Power button to get rid of any residual electrical charge. Flip your NES upside down and remove the six screws that hold the casing together. There are two on each side and two in the center.

• 6

  Flip the NES right side up and carefully remove the top half of the casing. Remove the seven screws holding the RF shield in place. This is the shiny metal casing that covers most of the console's innards. Pull the RF shield out of the system and set it aside.

• 7

  Find and remove the eight screws holding the NES motherboard in place. Lift the motherboard up gently and remove the three multicolored cables before fully removing the motherboard. Remove the lower RF shield.

• 8

  Take hold of the 72-pin connector and slide it off of the motherboard. This may require a bit of force. If the contacts on the motherboard look dirty or corroded, use the cotton swabs and window cleaner to clean them off. Make absolutely sure the contacts are dry before proceeding.

• 9

  Slide the replacement 72-pin connector onto the motherboard and reassemble the NES. With freshly cleaned games and a new 72-pin connector, your NES should be back in full working order.