Signs of a truly dying NES

Ok, I have this NES that I clean and fix almost religiously, but I just cannot get it to work 100%. Could it just really be on its way out? (Yes, I've done the pin realignment things, etc.)

 

Simple answer: no. Integrated circuits work or they don't. Passive support components can be out of spec, but they can be cheaply replaced. What are the symptoms?

 

I've been considering this, but I've pulled the converter out on several occasions and straightened and tightened the slots, but nothing. As for the symptoms, games will play on occasion, but there are ALWAYS VDP bugs and glitches, and certain sound effects that seem to use the same general programming NEVER play right. (I might be babied by emus, but I doubt mario's jump is supposed to just sound like a static pop every time)

 

clip your lockout chip pin

http://www.tylerwillis.com/2006/04/...ork-a-how-to-guide-with-sarcastic-commentary/


it "revives" systems almost every time!

 

That's a good idea, I've done it with many NES systems and they all work way better now.

 

Clip lockout pin and replace connector. Problem with the old connectors is they can be cleaned re aligned etc but are so oxidized they STILL cannot read! keeping realigning with end up breaking one of the pins

 

Get a new 72 pin connector, oxidization from people "blowing air" into the NES would be the major problem, also, the CIC chip would be the cause if you said my NES blinks most of the time.

 

So can anyone tell if me there is a difference in this so called premium 72 pin connector for $12.95 versus the other brands on eBay?

Standard? w/ 3.8mm game bit:
http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-NINTENDO-NE...tZVideo_Games_Accessories?hash=item27b0af2a2a

Premium:
http://cgi.ebay.com/New-Premium-Nin...tZVideo_Games_Accessories?hash=item35a5a230c7

 

One makes your wallet slightly lighter then the other, but other then that they should work the same.