Howto Fix a Playstation 2

Eventually you are going to run into problems with your PS2. Unfortunately most people believe that this means it's time to purchase a new gaming console. This usually happens when gamers notice a a continuous disc read error before playing any game or overheating. However, you can easily fix a Playstation 2 with either of these problems by opening up your system and giving the PS2 a good cleaning.

Things You'll Need

• precision screwdrivers
• rubbing alcohol
• q-tips

Instructions

1. Detach the top half of your Playstation 2 by removing all 8 screws underneath your gaming console. They will be hidden with plastic and padded feet. You can use your flathead precision screwdriver to pry out all the screw covers. Make sure you turn your gaming console back over so you can detach the top half of the PS2.

2. Pay attention to the power ribbon when opening your Playstation 2. It will be attached to the top half of your gaming console. So you don't rip the ribbon, take the top off like you are turning one of the pages in a book. It will keep you from causing any damage to it.

3. Find the disc tray inside the PS2. Remove the 4 screws that are keeping the disc tray cover in place. Grab the cover by both ends and pull up at the same time. You may notice a little resistance, but it's natural. Just pull with a little pressure behind it and you should be fine.

4. Look for the Playstation 2 lens. It's not the center disc piece, but the smaller circular object that would sit below the disc. Grab a q-tip, dampen the top of one end, and start cleaning the PS2 lens. It doesn't matter if you work in a clockwise or counter clockwise motion. Just make sure you clean it for 30 to 45 seconds.

5. Check around the lens where dust could of collected in other places. Make sure you swab the rubber ring around the centerpiece, You will have to rotate the ring in order to clean the whole thing. When you're finished, use the dry end of your q-tip and remove any excess rubbing alcohol.

6. Inspect the heat sinks and fan areas as well. The heat sinks look like white boxes with a ruffled design on the top. Fix any overheating problems with your Playstation 2 by cleaning both of these areas with a new q-tip for each one. This will allow your system to run cooler during hours of game play. When you're finished, just reassemble your Playstation 2.