Not a project, but a problem! ( pin connector )

[snesninja]

Hello everyone,

I've been surfing this forum for a few years now but never made an account. So much useful information! However, I have a problem that I cannot seem to find an answer to so I figured I would try here!

Anyway, so I recently got the second model of the SNES (SNS-101 or Snes Mini). I love it to death but it seems like when I put the cart in I can "wiggle" it back and forth slightly which causes the game to crash. Of course I won't be doing this while I play the snes...It runs fine when I put the cart in. Though I am concerned that the pin connector is wearing out causing the looseness of the cart. I don't think Nintendo would make hardware with a flaw like that, but I guess I could be mistaken.

So I looked for instructions on how to replace the pin connector for the second model of the snes but google has failed me (or have I failed google?). I can fix electronics (I fixed my 360 rrod a few times) but I always feel more comfortable when I have at least some written instructions on how to go about doing something like this.

I hope I explained myself well...if anyone is confused I could always post a youtube video about it or explain (show) in more detail. If anyone could shed some light on this subject that would be great! I would like to thank you in advance if anyone could help me!

[hailrazer]

The easiest way to fix this type of problem is to get a small screwdriver and very slightly bend the pins out a smidgen. This will make the contact better and stop most of the problem.

[Triton]

in the first model SNES the cartslot is on a removable socket which is pretty handy, unfortunately on the second revision (the mini) its soldered directly to the board. like hailraizer said, use a small screwdriver or a needle/pin to bend the pins out slightly.I wouldnt consider it a design flaw really, a first gen snes is at least 20 years old by now, friction and movement from insterting/removing carts tens of thousands of times does cause wear. it also couldnt hurt to clean the cart connectors on your games with some alcohol

[Snow_Cat]

You can also use a bit of plain cardboard or folded paper to scrub dirt off of the contacts, but do so sparingly as excessive cleaning can damage the finish.

Also do not use waxed (printed) cardboard as it will leave residue on the contacts, defeating cleaning.

[snesninja]

Thanks for everyone's suggestions! I'll be trying these tomorrow night.

Thanks again!