Fix Your Stuff Community Store

Repairing Nintendo 64 Controller Joystick Replacement

Introduction

This is a quick guide on replacing a faulty joystick on an N64. If you have a controller with a wobbly joystick, this is the way to resolve your issue.

This can also be considered a mod if you are upgrading the joystick to a redesigned replacement. Upgrading is recommended because the Nintendo 64 has a poorly designed joystick that is prone to breaking and because the redesigned joystick has better control.

What you need

  1. Repairing Nintendo 64 Controller Joystick Replacement, Controller Joystick Replacement: step 1, image 1 of 3 Repairing Nintendo 64 Controller Joystick Replacement, Controller Joystick Replacement: step 1, image 2 of 3 Repairing Nintendo 64 Controller Joystick Replacement, Controller Joystick Replacement: step 1, image 3 of 3

    • Begin by removing the 7 #0 Phillips screws from the back of the controller grips as shown.

    • Remove the 2 #00 Phillips screws from the expansion slot

    • Remove the rear housing and set aside.

    Edit

  3. Repairing Nintendo 64 Controller Joystick Replacement: step 2, image 1 of 3 Repairing Nintendo 64 Controller Joystick Replacement: step 2, image 2 of 3 Repairing Nintendo 64 Controller Joystick Replacement: step 2, image 3 of 3

    • Gently remove the Z-Button membrane and board by sliding them to the left and pulling out of the joystick assembly.

    • Remove the 3 #00 Phillips screws holding the joystick assembly in place.

    Edit

  4. Repairing Nintendo 64 Controller Joystick Replacement: step 3, image 1 of 3 Repairing Nintendo 64 Controller Joystick Replacement: step 3, image 2 of 3 Repairing Nintendo 64 Controller Joystick Replacement: step 3, image 3 of 3

    • Disconnect the joystick data cable and remove the old joystick.

    • To install your new joystick, simply follow these instructions in reverse.

    Edit
Conclusion

Test out your controller! It should be feeling like new.

33 other people completed this guide.

Author

with 6 other contributors

Zillatron

Member since: 08/28/12

1,511 Reputation

1 Guide authored

Badges: 16

+13 more badges

4 Guide Comments

If you don't line up the z button accurately it can be tricky getting the case back on.

Rainer De Temple - Reply

I have a couple thumbstick replacements that do not have the connector. They are from Sodial, and I was wondering if there was a way that they can be easily connected.

derocher1 - Reply

Hi, I've been trying to put a Zedlabz N64 joystick replacement in, and I've managed to install it but having so much trouble trying to get the case back on. I put the original back on and had no issues at all. I've tried everything but can't seem to match it up. Anyone got any ideas?

Gary Ogilvie - Reply

Is the new one too big? Hitting somewhere? You might need to dremel the places where it hits.

Jeff Miller -

Add Comment

View Statistics:

Past 24 Hours: 3

Past 7 Days: 53

Past 30 Days: 196

All Time: 48,165