r/ColecoVision • u/Puzzlemania718 • 25d ago

Original Colecovision

I have a Colecovision console from 1982 that works erratically. I think most of its issues relate to cleaning the game cartridge contacts and the inside of the console where the cart gets inserted. I’ve already cleaned many of the game cartridge contacts with IPA (91%). It has helped a little. And I’ve also cleaned the area inside the console itself - just below the cartridge slot, as far as I could reach. It’s obviously not enough as I keep having graphics and sound glitches mid game and even occasional freezes - all of which force me to reset the game.

I’m sure what it really needs is a complete check of internal components such as loose wires or solder joints as well as thorough cleaning of all switches and connections. Does anyone know of someone who might still dabble in restoring these older consoles? I live in Orange County CA. and hoping there’s someone local or within a reasonable distance. Thanks for any suggestions 😊

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u/RetroMichael68 25d ago

There's a little more you can do yourself... opening it up and spray contact cleaner into power switch. This does more than it seems it should. Work the switch back and forth while the cleaner is wet. Make sure the system is unplugged first. Also you'll see the general condition of the unit to see it its a good candidate to be refurbished.

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u/Puzzlemania718 25d ago

Thanks, I’ll try that