Doing the recap

Doing the Recap

This is the heart of the project. Take it slowly, test as you go, and you will end up with a console that sounds and powers up like new.

1. Disassemble
   Remove the tri-wing shell screws, open the case, and separate the main and sound boards. Photograph everything first.
2. Map polarity
   Record the orientation of each electrolytic capacitor before touching it. The new ones must match.
3. Remove old caps
   Apply fresh flux, heat both terminals of each SMD cap, and lift it gently. Avoid twisting, which tears pads.
4. Clean the pads
   Wick away old solder, then scrub leaked electrolyte off the board with isopropyl alcohol so corrosion stops.
5. Fit new caps
   Place each replacement in the correct orientation and solder one terminal, then the other. Verify the value matches the kit map.
6. Inspect
   Check every joint under magnification for bridges, cold joints, or wrong polarity before powering on.

Work through one board at a time and resist the urge to rush the last few caps. A single reversed capacitor can undo the whole job, so a final inspection pass is always worth it. Once both boards are done, move on to testing before you reassemble the shell.