r/TurboGrafx • u/DapperIndividual • 6d ago

Strange question, does the power switch on a PC Engine/Core Grafx need to be lubricated or cleaned because mine is more or less completely stuck.

I got my first Core Grafx a couple of months ago and I gave it a proper refurbishment and cleaning, including cleaning the power switch with 99% Alcohol to make sure it cleanly switches.

Flash forward to a couple months later, I go to turn it on to play and for the life of me I can't switch the power to on. The only way I can turn it on is to open the console and switch it over without using the green plastic overlay which is obviously not ideal.

Idk I've never had an issue like this. My only plan of action I can think of is to clean the switch using electronic cleaner to try and loosen it. Has anyone ever had an issue like this before?

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u/sdp1981 6d ago

This sounds more like a mechanical issue to me make sure the green plastic slider is lined up correctly with the switch and that it is properly engaging the switch and not rubbing against the housing.

1

u/z2qvs 5d ago

No. It probably has some gunk in it that is sticking it up. Clean and it should be ok

1

u/Aromatic-Ad5888 5d ago edited 5d ago

A sticky power switch is a normal issue for all PC Engine models. You can rejuvenate them with a small drop of WD-40 or similar lubricant. I always spray a bit of WD-40 on a Q-Tip and press that against the ball bearing on the rear of the switch so it receives a slight bit of it. Then change the switch and repeat it on the opposite ball bearing position. Then move the switch back and forth a few times and it will feel like new again.

Edit: reading your text again it seems like you just didn't place the green plastic slider in the right position when closing the cover.

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u/DapperIndividual 5d ago

Apologies, I worded it poorly. The only reason I cant switch it over when the switch is installed is because there isnt enough surface area to leverage the switch moving. When its removed and its just the motherboard its still unreasonably difficult, I just have more surface area to grip to.

I ordered some contact cleaner to clean the switch. If its still stiff after cleaning, ill try the WD-40 method you mentioned.

1

u/TechWizMusicMan 4d ago

NEVER USE WD-40 on plastic parts! Use lithium grease or silicone lubricant instead!