I’ve got a problem with my NES games—they won’t work unless I barely push them in, practically scraping the cartridge port. This issue affects nearly all of my games except for Super Mario. I’m worried about damaging them over time. Could this be due to the 72-pin connector? What’s the best way to fix it? Should I replace it, and if so, where can I get a new one? I’d appreciate any guides on how to do this properly!
3 Answers
You probably just need a new 72-pin connector. You can find them easily on Amazon, and replacing it is super straightforward. Alternatively, you can try cleaning your old one by boiling it and bending the pins back into place if they’re misaligned. Just a heads-up, original NES connectors can be pricey, and most aftermarket ones aren’t fantastic for the long haul.
Some people have success using a Game Genie as a workaround if you’re looking for a quick fix. Otherwise, replacing that pin connector is a solid option. Just be cautious about the quality of the replacement parts, as they vary greatly. Boiling your pin connectors actually sounds kind of fun, right? Good luck with it!
It sounds like you need to address the 72-pin connector issue. I had a similar problem and here’s what I did: I bought a replacement connector, but it didn’t work that great. So, I ended up fixing my original one. Here’s the process:
1. Get an L-shaped pick and lift all the pins slightly.
2. Lightly sand the pins using fine-grain sandpaper.
3. Boil the connector for about 5 minutes.
4. Let it dry completely.
5. Reinstall it, and it should work like new.
As a bonus, clean the cartridge connectors with a pencil eraser for better results!
Yeah, the Game Genie is a lifesaver! I’m using it to get by until I clean my connectors.