I’m trying to buy a used Japanese New 3DS LL (I hate how Nintendo named that thing) with an IPS top screen, and there’s one listing where the price is what I’m willing to pay, the screens are pristine with no yellowing and I’m fine with the condition of the back plates, but there’s a small crack in the console just below the upper screen. I do not have the experience to replace the whole shell, is this something I could use a bit of glue or epoxy and be fine or would this become a huge problem?
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I would absolutely avoid that, because the hinge is already really fragile as it is, and by the looks of it, it is ready to snap off at any moment as is. Replacing the shell is a way bigger pain in the ass, than what it’s worth
Replacing the shell is a way bigger pain in the ass, than what it’s worth
I agree. There’s a decent amount of extra effort required with clamshell devices.
I also feel like finding a new 3DS would be a bit harder than a regular DS shell. I imagine both are available on Ali Express though.
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You need to either replace the broken shell or use epoxy/glue and expect it to break somewhere else.
Is that worth the cost of just passing this one and looking at a different one? That’s up to you.
Epoxy could work.
3DSs have their interconnect ribbons in the right hinge, the left one is ‘just’ the mechanics.
Also, the shell is pretty sturdy. But nevertheless, you really should replace it, but probably enough just the inner shell of your screen to replace.
Now the sad part is that IIRC for that, you still have to disassemble the whole unit - including removing the ribbons in the hinge then reinserting them. This sucks major ass, it’s really-really hard and tricky to do, and there’s a relatively great chance you bork some of them (camera, screen or speaker/vol/3d controls).
It’s not impossible, tho.
This isn’t my 3ds, this is a seller image. There’s a lot to like about the rest of it, but ultimately I’ve decided not to buy this one because of the damage. I looked into what it would take to change it and I don’t think I have the skills to do it - and this isn’t “fun to tinker with” cheap. And yeah, replacing the shell on a 3ds looks like it sucks major ass, lol.
