Game Boy

DMG shell trimming

DMG Shell Trimming

Shell trimming permanently removes plastic from your DMG's front housing. Once cut, it cannot be undone. Work slowly, remove small amounts at a time, and test fit constantly. If you are not ready to make an irreversible change, stop here.

The DMG's original screen window is smaller than a modern IPS panel like the FunnyPlaying Q5. To make the new screen fit and sit flush, you trim away interior ribs and enlarge the viewing area of the front shell. This step is unique to DMG IPS installs; the Pocket and Color use kits sized to their shells.

Mark the area
Dry fit the IPS panel against the front shell and mark where plastic interferes with seating it flush.
Remove material gradually
Use a hobby knife or rotary tool to shave the marked ribs and edges a little at a time.
Test fit often
Re-seat the panel after each pass. Stop as soon as it sits flat with no gaps.
Clean up edges
Smooth any rough plastic and clear away all shavings before final assembly.

Patience pays

It is always safer to remove too little and trim again than to cut too much. Take repeated light passes rather than one aggressive cut.

With the shell trimmed and the panel seating cleanly, continue to the installing an IPS kit guide.