This order was for a TLC, retrobrighting and recap of a PAL SNES, as well as a TLC and retrobrighting of three SNES controllers
The console was yellowed particularly in one of the sides and the panel with the SNES branding. I had also many marks at the bottom from use, and had some dirt and scuffs throughout. First step was disassembly and examining of parts
Next step was to wash all parts with water and soap thoroughly
Next was to introduce the shells into the retrobrighting chamber. This method is a vapor method, which means putting a transparent tub into a bigger container lined with reflective material, introducing a heating element between the container and the tub, and some Hydrogen Peroxide at the bottom of the tub. Then position the items to be retrobrighted inside the tub but without touching the liquid, and seal the tub and container. Then turn on a UV light and the heating element and wait between 10 to 12 hours for the Hydrogen Peroxide to evaporate, condense on the surface of the items and together with the UV light, remove the yellowing. It took two tubs to fill in all the controllers and the SNES itself, with the most resistant yellowing going twice. The process removed most of the yellowing but there is still a faint tint in a couple of them as this process is not 100% perfect but is less aggressive than other methods like submerging .
While the console was being retrobrighted, I recapped the motherboard, including the voltage regulator
I tested the console both with a SCART and a composite cable and all worked fine
On examining the controllers, one of them had particularly bad rubber pads. Also one of the shoulder pads had broken at the hinge. I ordered a new set of rubber pads and glued the button with Tamiya cement plastic glue. I did try to print replicas of the shoulder button with my 3D printer but the result wasn’t satisfactory, so I decided the gluing method was best
To note that one of the cables has a minor dent and I would advice to cover with tape or protect some other way. At the moment there is no damage to the internal cables so I decided to leave it be for the customer’s decision.
Final result after coating with UV protector to stop the yellowing as long as possible. Note however that it is normal for retrobrighted consoles to yellow back with time. Please keep your console away from direct sunlight
