Watch out! Possible bad eBayer.

[maraxle]

I just wanted to get this started in case it turns out as bad as I think it might.  I got a trackball off ebay recently, and I think I may have been scammed.  Basically, the one in the picture is shiny and new looking with a white ball.  It was listed as 100% working with a good spin on it.  The one I received has a yellowish ball with rust marks all over it, and sounds like scraping metal.  It does run, however.  I am giving the seller the benefit of the doubt, and emailed him asking whether or not I got the one he intended to send me, as it doesn't match the description.  I'm hoping it's a mixup, but I've done enough ebaying to know it probably isn't.  Anyway, as soon as I find out more, assuming it's bad, I'll post his ebay name here so you can add him to your block lists.

[SirPeale]

Well, even if it's not tip-top, all may not be lost.

Open the unit.

Remove the electronics.  Take the shell to the sink and use the spray to hose out the dirt and grime.

Soak the ball in a bleach solution.  Scrub it with one of those green scouring pads or something similar.  Do *not* use steel wool or similar.

Take the bearings off, and get an electric drill.  Put the idler in the drill.  Put the bearings in the top, one by one, with three drops of three-in-one oil (NOT WD-40, WHATEVER YOU DO!!!).  Spin it in high for 15 seconds.

Reassemble.  Test.