ColecoVision Cartridge Reader Replacement

Written By: Anastazia Kidder
  • Comments: 3
ColecoVision Cartridge Reader Replacement

Difficulty

Very difficult

Steps

4

Time Required

30 minutes

Introduction

The purpose of this guide is to communicate steps on how to replace or repair the cartridge reader on a ColecoVision.

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    • Flip the console upside down and remove the eight 15mm Phillips #1 screws.

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    • Use the metal spudger along the bottom rim of the front panel to safely remove the top of the console. Set aside the top.

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    • Remove the two 15mm Phillips #1 screws holding the casing in place.

    • Remove the casing to reveal the cartridge reader.

    There is often a metal strap soldered to connect the metal casing. That needs to be cut or de-soldered.

    Jeffrey Dowd -

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    • Desolder the sides of the cartridge reader using the soldering iron and desolder pump.

    • Refer to this soldering technique guide for reference

    • Patiently wait for the cartridge reader to cool down after being desoldered.

    • It's very important to remove all the tin from the motherboard and cartridge reader before lifting it from the motherboard. Failure to do so could damage the motherboard.

    • Carefully lift up the cartridge reader. A plastic spudger might be helpful in order to easily remove the cartridge reader.

Conclusion

To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.

Author

Anastazia Kidder

Member since: 17/10/18

109 Reputation

2 comments

If you’re removing the rivets holding the cartridge slot in place, it would be nice if you would mention what you did to secure the slot to the board after swapping the slot. I’m going to Lowe’s hardware and I will make a decent selection when I get there . I think I will be fine but it would nice to be able to have a specific size and length of screw to look for. Thanks!

Tim Boda -

No need to add the rivets. Soldering the connector in place is more than enough .

Rey Lopez -