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I wanted to head over to the local hardware shop and pick up some replacement screws for my VB. What type of screws do I want to look for? I really have no idea what would be rust proof or be the best choice. Should I just match up the thread count and general size or does someone know exactly what would work best?

Thanks!

9 Replies

Should just find something the same length and thread style. No idea on exact replacements though. I think I remember reading somewhere that somebody found something close but had to cut the pointy end off of each screw.

Use #4 x 1/2″ wood screws. They have a pointy tip, but they’re not so long that it’s a problem. I used ’em in all three of my units and they work just fine. Same thread density.

I picked up #4 1/2″ sheet metal screws today. I grabbed them because they have a pan head which makes them flat on the underside like the original VB screws. After I got home I realized they are stainless steel, so they won’t work with my magnetic driver. I’m not even sure what will work, the store only had those and zinc screws. I’ll have to go back check.

The reason for this reply was to say thank you to Guy Perfect who was 100% correct. The #4 1/2″ screws are the right thread count, size, etc. They are the screws you’ll want if you are going to replace your security screws.

These are the screws I grabbed today: http://www.grattanfasteners.com/ItemForm.aspx?item=065003&Category=9442bbcb-92a2-4178-b89e-6e8e0efa0cd2

I also picked up a General Tools Precision Magnetizer and Demagnetizer: http://www.homedepot.com/p/t/100137914?productId=100137914&storeId=10051&langId=-1&catalogId=10053&ci_sku=100137914&cm_mmc=shopping-_-googleads-_-pla-_-100137914&ci_gpa=pla#.UaVrQ9K-rZ4

The screws are a perfect match. They went in as smooth as the originals. The magnetizer works great on the gamebit as well, which is something to consider for those who wish to use the original security screws.

Sorry to bump an old thread, but does anyone know if these screws will work for the plastic piece on the bottom that covers the cart (where the serial number is)?

When I got my Virtual Boy, the screws that hold on this piece were missing, and since I never had the original screws, I’ve been afraid to try to replace them, as I don’t want to do any damage.

Also, does anyone know if the security screws that hold this piece on are the same as what was used for the SNES? If so, I have a spare SNES from which I could salvage screws for my VB.

chicgamer wrote:
Sorry to bump an old thread, but does anyone know if these screws will work for the plastic piece on the bottom that covers the cart (where the serial number is)?

Yes; all of the external screws on the VB are the same size.

Also, does anyone know if the security screws that hold this piece on are the same as what was used for the SNES? If so, I have a spare SNES from which I could salvage screws for my VB.

I know they have the same head, and I suspect they are the same diameter, but I’m unsure of the length. If you have the right screwdriver, just take one from each unit and compare them. Also, it’s been a while, but I think the SNES screws (at least on the US model) were nickel-plated (i.e. “silver”), whereas the VB screws are black.

Awesome, I’ll remove one of the VB screws and check. Thanks for your help!

Hi sorry to bump an old thread but what screws does it controller use? I know they’re both Phillips head ones, but the ones inside my controller have become slightly stripped and corroded from being kept in a rough state for 20+ years. I recently cleaned my controller and that’s why I ask.

Does anyone know what screws fix the display pcbs to the plastic mounts?

 

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