Like the older video games? Keep them clean.

If your reading this you probably do, or your interested. Since eBay's been around many systems have passed hands two times or more. I've been adding to my personal collection for the last 4 years by buying large lots of games and used game systems. Most games need to be cleaned in order to play.

 I'd like to share a few game secrets with other gamer's who may lack some experience maintaining the old games such as: Sega, & Nintendo.

 While the cartridge games are almost indestructible they'll need some cleaning from time to time to keep them working at peak performance. "Nintendo" recommends: Clean the console pins once a month and the games once each week. The recommended way is with a Nintendo Cleaning kit. Using 1/2 teaspoon of water mixed with 1/2 teaspoon isopropyl alcohol. (rubbing alcohol)  Clean and dry tools are included in the kit.  Let stand 1 hour before playing.

Note: Not all of us are fortunate enough to have a cleaning kit. Try to find one on eBay. Or use the swab method. Only problem is getting to the inner console pins without having to open the system up. Extra Long needle nose pliers with a Q-tip on the end will get you by. Or, use the cleaning kit's inner contact cleaner. Same ingredients as above, and you won't have to open the system up.

 If you do decide to open the system you may as well install a new pin set found on eBay easily & cheap. Search for "NES 72 pin" Many dealers have these in abundance. Be sure to re-assemble the unit exactly as you took it apart. Instuctions can be found on the internet.

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 Tips

  Tip: Do not blow on the contacts to get the game to work..especially true with Nintendo 64 games. The reason is that the moisture from your mouth will actually speed up the deterioration of your game.

 Tip: Do not use harsh alcohol solvents to clean the contacts, This is only a quick fix and will do more harm than good. Stay away from paint thinners & soaps.

 Tip: Do not use anything containing detergents to clean the plastic encasements, Seepage into the game inside will cause loss of screen quality.

 Tip: keep your games away from dust. Do yourself a favor and spend a few bucks on a case or plastic covers.

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Contacts:

 To properly clean the game contacts, you may use electrical contact cleaner, available at most hardware stores. Use a q-tip, never overload the swab as only a little solvent is needed and seepage into the inner casement may occur. Do not over clean, just a few passes is all it takes. Be sure to dry the contacts and let sit for at least twenty minutes befor playing.

Encasement:

Use a soft damp cloth to clean the exterior, If you have stickers to remove try a safety cleaner like bestine. Use in small amounts and wipe clean with a seperate cloth when finished. Goo-be-Gone is an over the counter glue & sticker remover that works very well.

A special word for old disc games. Cd & Dvd cleaners are available at most retail outlets. Stay away from Windex or other soapy cleaners as you'll only speed up the ageing process. And, soil your system.

Thanks For reading & happy gaming!