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Revamped version of the iPhone 3G with faster processing speeds. Repair of this device is similar to the 3G, and requires simple screwdrivers and prying tools. Model A1303 / 8, 16 or 32 GB capacity / black or white plastic back.

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It worth to buy parts to fix a WET 3GS? (WATER DAMAGE)

1. I've dropped my 3GS 8Gb neverlocked into toilet. (Is my first iPhone and i really like it)

2. I was drying it without stopping it before (stupid idea) so it stopped alone after 1minute maybe.

3. Dry it really good, then kept it in rice for 3-4 days.

4. This was 7-8 days ago ...

NOW

- if i connect it to PC is silent/ doing nothing.

- if i connect the charger, the logo appears and then starts working for 2 minutes and then reset/restarts

- while is on i've tried to see what is working: cannot find my SIM, play but cannot hear music, no wifi adress and no IMEI is listed in "about", not sure about GPS and the rest.

- camera is working, LCD and touchscreen, buttons also :)

What do you say? Is it worth to buy parts and try to fix it? What else can i test to see if is working or not?

A friend have a 3GS without LCD (not sure if 8Gb or not) and i can get it for 20-25$. Would be a deal or a waste ?

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besoiuioan, you did say you placed your phone in Rice, but you did not tell us if you did anything else to it. The very first thing is to no longer try to turn it on or to sync/charge it. Rice may work to contain some of the moisture, but it will not prevent corrosion. I strongly recommend that you start off by cleaning your phone. Disassemble your phone using by following this guide. Clean it using this guide. It was written for a 3G but most certainly still applies. Make sure that you clean all connectors and cable ends and the dock connector as well. Check for corrosion across the whole board, remove the EMI shields. Check for missing or burned looking components. It may require more than just one cleaning cycle. Once it is cleaned, replace the battery. Reassemble your phone and re-evaluate. The logic board from your friend could be a good deal, if it is working correctly etc. So that one you have to think about once you determine if what, if any, damage you have on your phone. until it is cleaned and has a new battery, everything will be a guess only. Hope this helps, good luck.

iPhone 3GS Logic Board Image

Guide

iPhone 3GS Logic Board Replacement

Difficulty:

Moderate
iPhone Image

Guide

Repairing iPhone Liquid Damage

Difficulty:

Difficult

—

1 - 2 hours

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5 Comments:

I've tried today to buy alcohol to clean the board, but i couldn't find. I'll try tomorrow again. Can i try with some contact spray or should i mandatory emerge the board in alcohol?

by

I am always a little concerned about using contact spray. Take a good look at it and make sure that it is not conducting. This could cause you further issues. There are spray to clean electronics, and that might be acceptable.

by

I've changed the battery and cleaned all the inside with alcohol/ emerge the board.

Now ... the wi-fi is working and the music also.

But ... cannot detect the phone card and the GPS is not working.

I also forgot to assemble a small piece of metal and i don't know where. I'll make a photo and upload it tomorrow.

Any idea about the SIM and GPS problem?

by

Check your Sim card reader, make sure it recognizes that there is a card inserted. Try a new SIM card and see if that works, as for the GPS, this could be a bad/damaged IC

by

I've done it! My iPhone is now corrosion safe and clean and is working great. Thanks for your help!

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besoiuioan will be eternally grateful.
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