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Author Topic: Any Information On Reconditioning Old Arcade Joysticks?  (Read 1122 times)

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Boingo

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Any Information On Reconditioning Old Arcade Joysticks?
« on: August 20, 2008, 05:13:25 pm »
I just bought some used joysticks, and they are kind of stiff with difficulty returning to centre.   Since they are of a type no longer made, there is no way to use new joysticks in their place, so I am going to have to fix them up myself.

Are there any good articles on how to clean and repair old arcade joysticks?

Kevin Mullins

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Re: Any Information On Reconditioning Old Arcade Joysticks?
« Reply #1 on: August 20, 2008, 05:50:33 pm »
Kinda depends on what type you have.
Not a technician . . . . just a DIY'er.

Boingo

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Re: Any Information On Reconditioning Old Arcade Joysticks?
« Reply #2 on: August 20, 2008, 05:52:07 pm »
The stubby kind used on most Nintendo machines in the '80s.

Does that help?

If not, I can supply photos.

huygens

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Re: Any Information On Reconditioning Old Arcade Joysticks?
« Reply #3 on: August 20, 2008, 06:19:44 pm »
This thread has a lengthy discussion of cleaning and lubing these joysticks. One thing I would add. As well as cleaning and oiling/greasing the pivot ball, it helps to lubricate the joystick shaft and flange washer part # 23-20 (ignore arrow). If this part is binding, the stick won't center properly.


I had a filthy looking one with the above part frozen to the shaft and rust on the pivot, but after cleaning it works perfectly. I used Super Lube Synthetic Grease from the hardware store.

Boingo

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Re: Any Information On Reconditioning Old Arcade Joysticks?
« Reply #4 on: August 20, 2008, 07:16:18 pm »
Thank you huygens!   :applaud:  That is exactly what I was looking for!

<<EDIT:  I did a thorough cleaning on the stiffest and worst of the joysticks I got, and put sewing machine oil in the centre bearing (The thread *did* say to use light machine oi.l), and now the thing is popping back to centre easily.

I am very pleased, and plan to do the same thing with all of the other sticks.>>
« Last Edit: August 20, 2008, 07:54:01 pm by Boingo »

huygens

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Re: Any Information On Reconditioning Old Arcade Joysticks?
« Reply #5 on: August 20, 2008, 10:41:52 pm »
You're welcome  :) I don't know if all your sticks are Nintendos, but be careful using oil on any joysticks with plastic parts. Oil can break down plastics. Silicon-based lubes are safe though. Of course being all-metal the Nintendo ones aren't picky :)