As a matter of fact, I DO know how to repair them
Assuming you know how, or can figure out, careful dissasembly, Here's the condensed version. (Applies to ALL models of Saitek, and MOST other brand JS)...
TOOLS:[/u]
Asst'd. #1 and #2 phillips screwdrivers (stubby to 3, or 4" length). [power driver is ok, but use LOW torque, and keep that magnetic bit clear of the electronics!! -- this ain't for rookies!--]
Small 15-20 watt soldering iron, damp sponge, tip tinner & cleaner, soldering flux <-(better than heat sinc in tight places), rag, Steady hand, heat control, de-solder tool or wick.
Solder = .022 Silver Bearing (2%) solder
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PARTS:[/u]
Some good glue; Look for something called: "Plastic Weld".
Or a good epoxy.
A roll of 1/2" wide 'string tape' - (used for shipping)
4 each replacement buttons...
>> These are common rubber covered, momentary switches. just like the ones used in CD/Tape/VCR players for "Stop", "Play", "Rewind", etc. - I allways strip these items for parts like led's, caps, resistors, bearings, (Buttons), and certain weldable plastics before discarding! - <<
If you use "scavenged" buttons, (Which I recommend, since I live on an island), Use care not to overheat them when de-soldering, and allow them to cool for a minute once removed.
Then, take each one and hold it close to your ear, and give it a few good presses between your thumb and forefinger. It should 'Feel' lively, and give off a crisp little 'snapping' sound, even when pressed off center. (Believe me, you'll know a weak one when you get it)
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The common problem with Saitek hats, is that as the four buttons begin to wear, you lose the 'Corner' views. This is because corner views are activated when the hat presses TWO buttons at once, applying pressure each on the edge of both, instead of the center.
To compensate, we make things worse by pressing HARDER, and because this often helps, repair is put off.
But damage increases. Because the extra force causes the plastic 'tower' holding the four main buttons in an upright position to crack, thus no longer offering the button any support against the onslaught of your thumb. ;p
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So- Disassemble stick, De-solder and remove faulty buttons.
Dry fit the new ones before soldering, then lightly tin the legs, and install each using a tiny bit of solder paste to help control heat, while expediting the weld. Take your time, allowing each leg to cool a bit before moving on.
Then fit the tower, pressing it's grooves onto each button edge for support, then use the glue to repair the support tower, making sure to keep any glue from getting into the switch support grooves.
Then unroll about 2" of the string tape, and rip it in half length wise. (giving you two 1/4" pieces).
Apply a thin film of glue to the outside surface of the tower, and allow it to become 'tacky'... Then wrap one of the tape strips firmly around it.
Allow it to set up a bit, then trim any excess. Leave it setup overnight and dry.. reassemble..
AND PLAY!!
Hope this helps
S!
