Faulty or Loose Cartridge Slot - Clean and Repair

Intro

Follow this step-by-step guide to easily repair and clean a faulty cartridge slot on a Sega Mega Drive (Genesis).

Links for the required tools & materials have been provided. Purchasing via the links below supports Restoreo through commission we earn at no extra cost to you.

Watch the video and tick off the steps as you go.

Disclaimer: t
his guide is for educational purposes. Repairs may void your warranty. Perform repairs at your own risk and disconnect from power before starting. We are not liable for damage, injury, or loss. Use proper safety precautions and dispose of components responsibly.

Materials Needed

  1.  Phillips Screwdriver
  2.  Contact cleaner, cotton buds, and cloth
  3.  Hook tool
  4.  Anti-static brush
    Tip: It may be worth investing in a repair mat if you intend to do more repair work in the future

Video Guide

Step 1

Disassemble the Console:

Flip the console over and remove the six Phillips screws from the back
Carefully lift the lid off the console, fold over to gain access to LED
Detach the LED wire by straightening the connector pins and pulling upwards

    Step 2

    Remove the RF Shield:

    Unscrew the screws securing the RF shield around the edges.
    Lift the RF shield to access the board
    Inspect the board for damage, debris and dirt - clean if required

      Step 3

      Address the Cartridge Slot:

      Inspect the cartridge slot for loose or dirty pins
      Use a small hook tool to carefully bend the contact pins back into position by inserting the hook end into the hole at the back of the cartridge slot
      Place a game cartridge into the slot to bend the contacts back into place - remove the game cartridge
      Apply contact cleaner (alcohol spray) into the slot and clean it:
      • Insert and remove a cartridge a few times to begin cleanings the pins
      • Use a microfiber cloth wrapped around an old card to clean the slot further by pushing it in and out of the slot
      • Remove any residue and allow some time for drying

      Step 4

      Test the Cartridge Slot:

      Reassemble the console partially and connect it to power
      Insert a cartridge and turn on the console
      Move the cartridge slightly while the console is on to test the pin connection has been re-tensioned and cleaned well enough
      Tip: If your console isn't working at this stage it may be due to weak or broken solder joints on the cartridge slot (reflow the solder if this is the case), blown capacitors (replace), or other issues which may be diagnosed through tracing.

        Step 5

        Clean the Board and Housing:

        Inspect the board for rust, corrosion and blown capacitors (replace if found)
        Use isopropyl alcohol to clean the affected spots:
        • Use the contact cleaner or rubbing alcohol on the corroded areas and wipe with a cloth or cotton bud
        • Clean any surface dust or debris
        • Use alcohol wipes or rubbing alcohol to clean the console housing
        • Ensure your board, components and housing is completely dry before continuing

        Step 6

        Reassemble the Console:

        Reattach the mainboard (if removed) and RF shield:
        • Secure all screws, including those on the cartridge slot and heat shield
        • re-attach the LED wire (positive and negative correctly)
        Place the console housing back in place, flip over, and tighten the remaining 6 screws

          Step 7

          Final Testing:

          Test the console again to ensure the cartridge slot is functioning correctly.
          Verify that the display and audio outputs are working (use RGB connection for best quality)
          Enjoy your refreshed Mega Drive (Genesis)

            Thanks, Accreditation, and References

            YouTube Channel/Video:
            Retro Sales 

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