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View Full Version : Replacing a SNES cartridge

foxstomp
09-14-2004, 02:56 AM
This is my first post on these forums, so hopefully I'm putting this in the right place.

Recently, I scored a copy of the SNES game Earthbound for relatively cheap. It works great, but unfortunately, it looks like someone seriously beat up the cartridge. Top right corner is sort of melted/cracked looking. Because I'm anal, I was curious if it would be possible to go buy a cheap snes game, gut the cartridge, and put the earthbound rom in a more reliable, less crappy looking case. I have no experience with this, and haven't even really looked at the cartridge. I just wanted to know if this is possible, and if so, if anyone has any tips, or knows of a guide that walks you through it. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

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Ugly Joe
09-14-2004, 03:15 AM
Quite possible. The only thing getting in your way would be the security screws that keep the cartridges shut. If you have the special bits for them, it's really easy. If not, it can be done with tiny screwdrivers, but it's a long process. Basically, you wedge the tip of the screwdriver against the screw hole and the screws and turn it. It's pretty much common sense if you look at it. Just keep at it long enough and they'll loosen. I've done it a couple of times for replacing batteries. Also, getting the label transfered over will probably be a pain. Maybe heat it up so the adhesive melts a little?

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JCE3000GT
09-14-2004, 10:34 AM
You can get the tool on eBay to open the Nintendo-made cartridges and it's easy to replace the boards from one to the other. I've done this countless times...and you can put Japanese boards in US carts too (I did this with some of the Super Scope 6 carts I bought for $0.99). Just pay attention to the DIRECTION the board is facing before you switch them...as obviously it won't work upside down. <img src=smilies/thumb.gif>

*Edit*

And while you're at it replace the old battery with a new one...if I can remember it needs a CR2032 lithium battery.
<P ID="signature">http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/VonBlitzKrieg/samsho4001.gif</P><P ID="edit"><FONT class="small">Edited by JCE3000GT on 09/14/04 06:35 AM.</FONT></P>