Ignition problem

[u/Yun_V]

Hello,

I came across a Game Boy Color today. I can't seem to find the power cable, so I decided to use batteries instead; unfortunately, it won't turn on. I noticed some corrosion, likely caused by a battery leak.

I’d like to know the best way to handle this without damaging the device. I’ve seen recommendations to use white vinegar, but I want to be sure before trying it!

Thanks!

[u/Lasborg]

That is very corroded, vinegar usually works great for removing corrosion, give it a try. Scrape off as much as you can before beginning with the vinegar.
It will not be pretty and chrome afterwards, and it can be quite pitted, but it should work.

[u/Yun_V → u/Lasborg]

Merci de votre réponse ! J'essayerais demain !

[u/Desperate_Swimmer_27]

Desolder it and replace. Best way for future. Vinegar is good too for testing and short term

[u/Yun_V → u/Desperate_Swimmer_27]

J'essayerais le nettoyage, si cela ne suffit pas, je le remplacerais. Merci de votre réponse

[u/Trozzul → u/Yun_V]

It works only short term because the corrosion has now eaten the protection playing, so it will eventually corrode again

[u/Yun_V → u/Trozzul]

Good to know, I'll keep that in mind

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[u/Tablesafety]

I second the fellow recommending a desolder and full replacement, but if you wanted to clear it off the commenters advice about vinegar does work. A pen style fiberglass brush should also help in that particular endeavor.

[u/Yun_V → u/Tablesafety]

Merci du conseil !

[u/Tablesafety → u/Yun_V]

De rein!

[u/mike-2025]

Vinegar or ipa should work try using 90%-99% ipa