How to Fix N64 Controllers

Unplug your Nintendo 64 controller from the console and place it upside-down on a flat work surface.

Remove all nine screws from the back face of the controller using a small Phillips screwdriver. Note that there are two screws recessed within the Rumble Pack slot. Place the screws off to the side.

Pull the back face of the controller away. Remove the shoulder buttons from their slots and place them off to the side.

Remove the three screws holding the analog thumbstick assembly in place and pull the assembly away from the rest of the controller. Remove the final black screw on the rear face of the thumbstick assembly.

Disconnect the thumbstick assembly's blue power cable from the blue port. Detach the gray rear face of the thumbstick assembly.

Rotate the dark gray shaft atop the large spring counterclockwise 90 degrees. Doing so will release the spring. Place the dark gray shaft and spring off to the side.

Cut a strip of tape approximately 3 inches long and 1/8 inch wide. Wrap the strip around the narrow notch located on the base of the light gray thumbstick.

Replace the thumbstick in the assembly and reattach the spring and dark gray shaft with a 90-degree clockwise twist.

Cut another strip of tape identical to the first. Wrap the strip around the rectangular tip of the light gray thumbstick. The strips of tape act as shims, replacing the lost plastic and restoring a tight feel.

Reattach the thumbstick assembly's rear plate and screws. Plug in the blue power cable and replace the shoulder buttons in their respective slots. Replace the controller's back face and nine screws.