The frame already cracked a few years ago but the hinge still worked fine if I held it down. But just now the entire thing suddenly came off. A couple of days ago I ordered the bottom shell but do I have to also replace the hinge?
Posted by Own-Bit8819
4 Comments
You could try gluing it back on with plastic glue, but it’s likely that it will eventually break again. Shell swaps on the 3DS can be difficult because of the cables in the hinge, so I would definitely try gluing it back on again. Just make sure to actually use plastic glue.
o7
This break is unfortunately a very common issue with the original 3DS XL.
The proper way to fix this issue is to replace the bottom midframe of the system. And that requires a partial disassembly.
I recommend watching this video that displays the process.
If you’re (understandably) intimidated by the process, I highly suggest getting a hinged case for the system. The hinged hard case will act as a brace for the system so it will keep the top aligned and the ribbon cables intact.
[https://youtu.be/-OdCeWEVlRk?si=191r5z3iS0C6gkBo](https://youtu.be/-OdCeWEVlRk?si=191r5z3iS0C6gkBo)
just full swap it.
Do not use glue, like others suggest – if it gets on the motherboard, it will most certainly damage it. Glue would be safe only, if you fully tear it down – which you can just shell swap, if you take it this far. Not to mention this part is constantly under pressure, glue will not hold it for long. Plastic is meant to be soldered if original integrity is lost, but it will look nasty and shell swap is just better option.