More Fun Retro 2Welcome to the live draw for the SteamCard Pro! We are drawing the winner tonight, Sunday 12th April at 8pm BST. (Stream starts at 7pm).
I also have some BIG news regarding the next event, and I will be showing you what will be offered as a prize for the next charity raffle.
**LEGAL & YOUTUBE DISCLAIMERS** • This prize draw is not sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with YouTube. • By entering or participating, you release YouTube from any and all liability related to this draw. • All entries must comply with YouTube's Community Guidelines: youtube.com/howyoutubeworks/policies/community-guidelines • For full Official Rules, Free Entry Routes, and Privacy Policy, please see the GiveWheel link above.
Charity Raffle Prize Draw - SteamCard ProMore Fun Retro 22026-04-12 | Welcome to the live draw for the SteamCard Pro! We are drawing the winner tonight, Sunday 12th April at 8pm BST. (Stream starts at 7pm).
I also have some BIG news regarding the next event, and I will be showing you what will be offered as a prize for the next charity raffle.
**LEGAL & YOUTUBE DISCLAIMERS** • This prize draw is not sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with YouTube. • By entering or participating, you release YouTube from any and all liability related to this draw. • All entries must comply with YouTube's Community Guidelines: youtube.com/howyoutubeworks/policies/community-guidelines • For full Official Rules, Free Entry Routes, and Privacy Policy, please see the GiveWheel link above.
If you'd like to help keep the lights on (and the tools plugged in), my Patreon is the best way to do it. Patrons get ad-free early access to videos, behind-the-scenes updates, and entry to a super secret Discord channel — plus my sincere gratitude, which is worth roughly what you'd expect.
─────────────────────────────PC Engine Repair - Outside My Comfort Zone!More Fun Retro 22026-06-20 | Stepping outside my usual 8-bit and 16-bit microcomputers to diagnose a broken NEC PC Engine.
Special thanks to PCBWay for sponsoring this video. pcbway.com
I start by checking the power and voltage regulators before moving on to reflow the ribbon cable connections. After testing a few capacitors out of circuit, I use an oscilloscope to probe the RAM and data bus, working through the schematics to isolate the fault. The process ultimately points to a bad CPU, which unfortunately halts this specific repair.
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If you'd like to help keep the lights on (and the tools plugged in), my Patreon is the best way to do it. Patrons get ad-free early access to videos, behind-the-scenes updates, and entry to a super secret Discord channel — plus my sincere gratitude, which is worth roughly what you'd expect.
I also have another channel called More Fun Making It, where I build things from scratch instead of trying to coax life back into them. Same shed, different end of the workbench.
───────────────────────────── #PCEngine #RetroRepair #ConsoleRepairZX Spectrum Dead DataMore Fun Retro 22026-06-13 | Special thanks to PCBWay for sponsoring this video. pcbway.com
Today I have a rubber key 48K ZX Spectrum issue 3B on the bench. This particular motherboard is an unusual dark green color, manufactured in Korea, and it arrived with a completely dead data bus.
Using a diagnostic card and an oscilloscope, I trace the power, clock, and reset signals to figure out why the system refuses to boot. After ruling out the ULA, the focus shifts to the Z80 CPU. I remove the original processor, test a replacement, and install it to see if that resolves the erratic data lines.
Once the repair is done and the display is stabilized with a composite mod, I test the system with a quick run of Manic Miner.
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If you'd like to help keep the lights on (and the tools plugged in), my Patreon is the best way to do it. Patrons get ad-free early access to videos, behind-the-scenes updates, and entry to a super secret Discord channel — plus my sincere gratitude, which is worth roughly what you'd expect.
I also have another channel called More Fun Making It, where I build things from scratch instead of trying to coax life back into them. Same shed, different end of the workbench.
───────────────────────────── #ZXSpectrum #RetroComputing #Z80PC Engine CD RomRom Unboxing + Other Things!More Fun Retro 22026-06-10 | Opening some mail and going through a few items sent in by viewers. The first package contains a ZX Spectrum S-Video mod and some ULA heatsinks. The second is a PC Engine haul, including a Core Grafx console, a CD-ROM2 system, a multitap, and HuCards like Bomberman and Space Invaders. I test the hardware here to figure out what works and what will need to go on the repair bench for a future project.
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If you'd like to help keep the lights on (and the tools plugged in), my Patreon is the best way to do it. Patrons get ad-free early access to videos, behind-the-scenes updates, and entry to a super secret Discord channel — plus my sincere gratitude, which is worth roughly what you'd expect.
I also have another channel called More Fun Making It, where I build things from scratch instead of trying to coax life back into them. Same shed, different end of the workbench.
───────────────────────────── #PCEngine #RetroGaming #ConsoleRepairZX Spectrum 48k Hot Chip Memory FailMore Fun Retro 22026-06-06 | In this video, I dive into a Sinclair ZX Spectrum Issue 6A repair that's suffering from strange screen colors. Watch along as I perform standard multimeter and circuit diagnostics, hunt down failing 4116 DRAM chips using a thermal camera, track down a bad 100uF capacitor, replace a faulty speaker, and attempt to revive a stubborn keyboard membrane.
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If you'd like to help keep the lights on (and the tools plugged in), my Patreon is the best way to do it. Patrons get ad-free early access to videos, behind-the-scenes updates, and entry to a super secret Discord channel — plus my sincere gratitude, which is worth roughly what you'd expect.
I also have another channel called More Fun Making It, where I build things from scratch instead of trying to coax life back into them. Same shed, different end of the workbench.
#ZXSpectrum #RetroRepair #ElectronicsRestorationI Thought This Would Be Simple! C64 RepairMore Fun Retro 22026-05-30 | Special thanks to PCBWay for sponsoring this video. pcbway.com
Today on More Fun Fixing It, I tackle a Commodore 64 with the classic "black screen" fault. Armed with various diagnostic test cartridges, and the Classic Repair Toolbox software, I chase down a shorted 74LS257 multiplexer and various other faults. What should have been a quick logic chip replacement turns into a much longer journey thanks to a frustrating mistake on the bench. Watch to the end to see the C64 finally pass its diagnostics and to hear about the upcoming Retro Fest 2026 in Swindon.
If you'd like to help keep the lights on (and the tools plugged in), my Patreon is the best way to do it. Patrons get ad-free early access to videos, behind-the-scenes updates, and entry to a super secret Discord channel — plus my sincere gratitude, which is worth roughly what you'd expect.
I also have another channel called More Fun Making It, where I build things from scratch instead of trying to coax life back into them. Same shed, different end of the workbench.
─────────────────────────────Charity Raffle Prize Draw - FrankenPeteMore Fun Retro 22026-05-25 | Welcome to the live draw for the FrankenPete 64GS + MORE!
**LEGAL & YOUTUBE DISCLAIMERS** • This prize draw is not sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with YouTube. • By entering or participating, you release YouTube from any and all liability related to this draw. • All entries must comply with YouTube's Community Guidelines: youtube.com/howyoutubeworks/policies/community-guidelines • For full Official Rules, Free Entry Routes, and Privacy Policy, please see the GiveWheel link above.
**MY CHANNELS** More Fun Making It: youtube.com/@MoreFunRetro More Fun Fixing It: [Insert Link Here]Self Inflicted CARNAGE! ZX Spectrum RepairMore Fun Retro 22026-05-23 | Special thanks to PCBWay for sponsoring this video. pcbway.com
Today I tackle a dead ZX Spectrum from a huge box of retro repairs. Watch as I diagnose the faults, replace a blown transistor, and perform a composite mod to bring it back to life—along with a slight detour after accidentally frying a few 74LS157 logic chips with reverse polarity! Proof that we all still learn from our mistakes on the bench.
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If you'd like to help keep the lights on (and the tools plugged in), my Patreon is the best way to do it. Patrons get ad-free early access to videos, behind-the-scenes updates, and entry to a super secret Discord channel — plus my sincere gratitude, which is worth roughly what you'd expect.
I also have another channel called More Fun Making It, where I build things from scratch instead of trying to coax life back into them. Same shed, different end of the workbench.
#ZXSpectrum #RetroComputing #ElectronicsRepairFixing A Childhood Treasure - Acorn Electron RepairMore Fun Retro 22026-05-16 | In this video, I take a look at a faulty Acorn Electron sent in by Yawning Angel Keith. Despite the classic "black and white stripes" screen often pointing to RAM or ULA failure, troubleshooting with an oscilloscope reveals a surprising culprit. Follow along as I diagnose the signals, reflow the ULA, and swap parts to bring this childhood machine back to life just in time for Retro Fest.
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If you'd like to help keep the lights on (and the tools plugged in), my Patreon is the best way to do it. Patrons get ad-free early access to videos, behind-the-scenes updates, and entry to a super secret Discord channel — plus my sincere gratitude, which is worth roughly what you'd expect.
I also have another channel called More Fun Making It, where I build things from scratch instead of trying to coax life back into them. Same shed, different end of the workbench.
─────────────────────────────Testing New C64 Diagnostic Tools on a Black Screen BoardMore Fun Retro 22026-05-09 | In this video, I tackle a Commodore 64 with a classic black screen issue. Using a variety of diagnostic cartridges and tools, I narrow down the culprits to a faulty PLA, CIA, and SID chip. Watch as I troubleshoot the board, swap components, and get this vintage machine back toward a functional state.
Facebook facebook.com/MoreFunMakingItThe Heist? Recreating a Rarity: FrankenPete C64GS ProjectMore Fun Retro 22026-05-02 | In this video, I complete the "FrankenPete" build, a unique Commodore 64 Games System (C64GS) recreation assembled from reclaimed parts and 3D-printed cases. I walk through the assembly of a custom SMD C64 Power Saver, install a @TheRetroChannel RFOFF video mod with S-Video output, and add some custom 3D-printed finishing touches.
This project was a collaboration across the Retro Hardware Discord community. Now that it is complete, the entire bundle is being raffled to support The Befriending Scheme, a charity dedicated to combating social isolation.
How to Enter the Prize Draw You can purchase tickets and enter the draw directly through our official GiveWheel page: gvwhl.com/XFKUX
Single Entry: £5.
Bundle of 5 Entries: £20.
The Prizes 1st Prize: The custom C64GS bundle as featured in this video.
2nd Prize: A Multi Retro DRAM Tester, donated by Phil.
3rd Prize: A DestestMax Cartridge, donated by Lee Smith.
Live Draw Details The winners will be selected at random during a live stream on the More Fun Fixing It channel:
Date: Sunday, May 24th, 2026.
Time: 8:00 PM BST.
YouTube Disclaimer YouTube is not a sponsor of this prize draw and has no involvement in its administration or execution..
By entering, all participants agree to release YouTube from any and all liability related to this event.
Entries must comply with YouTube's Community Guidelines; entries that do not comply will be disqualified.
Terms and Conditions Eligibility: This draw is open worldwide.
Shipping (UK): Complimentary shipping is provided for winners located within the United Kingdom.
Shipping (International): Winners located outside of the UK are responsible for all postage costs, import duties, and local taxes.
Winner Notification: Winners will be contacted via the email address provided at the time of entry. If a winner does not respond within 14 days, a redraw may occur.
Free Entry Route In accordance with UK law, a free entry route is available. To enter for free, please send a postcard with your full name, email address, and telephone number to:
C64GS Raffle CS Entry The Befriending Scheme 1 The Croft Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 1HN
Please clearly mark your entry with the words "C64GS RAFFLE." Postal entries must be received by Friday, May 22nd, 2026, to be included in the draw.
#Commodore64 #RetroRepair #RetroGamingSugon T61 Soldering Iron UpgradeMore Fun Retro 22026-04-29 | In this video, I take a look at the Sugon T61 soldering station, the 400W "big brother" to the popular Sugon A9. I compare it to my previous daily driver, discuss the importance of proper grounding for safety, and put the heavy-duty C470 and C245 tips to the test on a challenging ground plane.
#Soldering #ElectronicsRepair #SugonT61Fixing a ZX Spectrum with Terrible DisplayMore Fun Retro 22026-04-25 | Special thanks to PCBWay for sponsoring this video. pcbway.com
In this episode of More Fun Fixing It, I tackle a 16K Issue 2 ZX Spectrum from Paul Universal Retro Boss. This machine arrived with a corrupt, black-and-white display and some interesting internal notes.
I walk through the diagnostic process, including: * Testing the ULA in a "stunt" Spectrum to confirm it's functional. * Performing a full recap after finding several capacitors out of spec. * Demonstrating the Happy Little Diode Issue 2 video mod to address common "marginal" ULA colour issues. * Dealing with the frustrations of intermittent faults and "tired" silicon.
While I manage to get a stable display on the bench, the journey shows that sometimes these vintage machines have a mind of their own once they leave the workshop.
#ZXSpectrum #RetroRepair #ElectronicsAliExpress Unpacking 6 and Im DONEMore Fun Retro 22026-04-22 | In this video, I unbox a large batch of electronic repair tools and components from AliExpress. I test a set of Z80 CPUs to see if they are genuine or rebadged fakes, review a new headband magnifier, and look at various parts like OMRON switches, voltage regulators, and clean room wipes.
I also explain why this may be the last video in this format following issues with the AliExpress affiliate program.
#ElectronicsRepair #AliExpress #VintageTech3X ZX Spectrum Missing Voltages RepairsMore Fun Retro 22026-04-18 | Special thanks to PCBWay for sponsoring this video. pcbway.com
In this episode of More Fun Fixing It, I tackle a batch of ZX Spectrum's suffering from missing voltage rails. I walk through my updated triage process using a diagnostic card to quickly identify dead 12V and -5V lines.
I dive into three specific repairs: • Replacing shorted TR4 transistors (ZTX651) on Issue 2 boards. • Identifying a failed -5V rail caused by out-of-spec electrolytic capacitors. • Troubleshooting a "washed out" video signal by isolating a faulty LM1889N chip.
Along the way, I perform composite mods, tune the video output using an oscilloscope, and discuss the "harsh reality" of repair economics regarding recapping for resale.
#ZXSpectrum #RetroRepair #ElectronicsSUPER Rare C64 Silver Label - Did You Help Fix This?More Fun Retro 22026-04-11 | Special thanks to PCBWay for sponsoring this video. pcbway.com
In this video, I return to a very early "Silver Label" Commodore 64 with a serial number in the 800s to finish a repair I previously failed at. With help from the community and some new diagnostic tools, I track down a persistent bit 2 error to a faulty U22 RAM chip. Watch as I demonstrate a clean desoldering technique, test the chip with a shiny new dedicated DRAM tester, and address further diagnostic errors related to the control ports on this rare 1982 motherboard.
#Commodore64 #RetroRepair #VintageComputingUnpacking AliExpress Retro Repair Tools and Materials 4More Fun Retro 22026-04-08 | In this video, I unbox a fresh haul of tools and materials from AliExpress, ranging from Amao M50 and Mechanic UV flux to a handy DC power meter with a barrel jack kit. I also look at some conductive copper tape, T12 soldering tips, and a new isopropyl alcohol dispenser to see which items are workshop essentials and which were ordered in error.
#ElectronicsRepair #RetroComputing #SolderingLive Streaming Random Stuff (Practicing for next week)More Fun Retro 22026-04-06 | Next week we do the charity raffle prize draw. This week we just hang out and have a chat, maybe fix something random.
More Fun Website morefunmakingit.co.ukThe 90s Best (8bit) Games Console? - Amstrad GX4000 Repair *PLUS* Pico GXMore Fun Retro 22026-04-04 | Special thanks to PCBWay for sponsoring this video. pcbway.com
In this episode of More Fun Fixing It, I take a look at a rare Amstrad GX4000 console picked up from the Cambridge Museum of Computing. This unit has a common fault involving broken pins in the player one joystick port and some previous "museum bodges."
I walk through the process of: * Removing old modifications and non-factory wiring. * Replacing the DE9 joystick port. * Restoring factory-style diode protection.
I also test out the brand new Pico GX SD-loading cartridge developed by Roderick and sold by Flame Lily, which allows you to run the entire GX4000 and Amstrad Plus library from a single SD card. We wrap up with some gameplay testing of Batman The Movie, Navy Seals, and Copter 271.
#Amstrad #RetroRepair #GamingTechDANGEROUS T12Xplus Soldering Iron - Worth the Price?More Fun Retro 22026-04-01 | In this video, I take a look at the OSS Team T12 X Plus soldering station. Priced at around £32, it initially seems like a bargain, but after a teardown and some performance testing, I discovered some serious safety concerns. From a non-earthed metal case to unstable temperature calibration, this "budget" station might be more trouble than it's worth. I compare it against the Pinecil and my Sugon A9 to see if it’s a viable tool or just expensive junk.
I have not put a link to the desoldering station here as I normally would. It could not in good conciense recommend something I have seen is dangerous. If you really want to buy one they are not hard to find. But dont. Buy a Pinecil. Here is a link to that instead: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4e7li5b (Affiliate)
#soldering #electronics #safetywarningInteresting C64 Repair - Its NOT a C65 Dev MachineMore Fun Retro 22026-03-28 | In this video, I tackle a Commodore 64 with a persistent "red screen" issue. I explore a unique, custom-built kernel switcher board and a piggybacked character ROM before dive-testing the chips. After ruling out the PLA and U15, a VIC-II swap finally brings this heavily modified and well-loved machine back to life.
Facebook facebook.com/MoreFunMakingItRetro Repair Ali Express Unpacking 3More Fun Retro 22026-03-25 | In this video, I’m unboxing a new batch of repair supplies and tools from AliExpress. I test out some Kingbo and Amtech flux, attempt to use solder-filled heat shrink connectors, and find a great source for ZX Spectrum keyboard connectors. From speakers to switches, I'm checking to see which of these budget finds are actually worth keeping on the workbench and which are a complete waste of money.
#AliExpress #RetroRepair #ElectronicsUnboxingC64 EXTREME Repair - A Wooden Commodore with Many Broken Chips - Part 2More Fun Retro 22026-03-21 | Special thanks to PCBWay for sponsoring this video. pcbway.com
In this video, I continue the repair of a Commodore 64 breadbin, diving deep into diagnostics to solve a persistent black screen and "bad" PLA error. I use a C64 analyser cartridge and an oscilloscope to trace faults through the U15 logic chip and address chip select line issues. Join me as I troubleshoot potentially faulty RAM and logic chips to get this classic machine back to a working state.
ENTER THE PRIZE DRAW HERE: gvwhl.com/5MG4N TICKETS: £2 each or 10 for £15. CLOSING DATE: 12th April 2026 at 7:59 PM BST.
THE PRIZE I’m raffling off a SteamCard Pro (ZX Spectrum diagnostic cartridge). This is the "Rolls Royce" of diagnostic kit, kindly donated by Dave "Steamy" Briggs. Whether you’re a pro repairer or just want to keep your Speccy running, this is the tool you need.
THE CAUSE All proceeds go directly to The Befriending Scheme (thebefriendingscheme.org.uk/). Thanks to your incredible support in 2023 and 2024, we raised over £30k and even bought two donkeys, Henry and Sarah! Let’s keep that momentum going for 2026. All ad revenue from this specific video will also be donated to the charity.
THE LIVE DRAW Join me here on the channel on 12th April at 7:59 PM BST for a live stream where we will use GiveWheel’s random selector to pick the winner together!
THE "LEGAL BITS" (PLEASE READ) To ensure this remains a legal Prize Draw in the UK and complies with YouTube’s 2026 guidelines, please note the following:
Eligibility: You must be 18 years of age or older to enter.
Shipping: The prize includes free shipping to the UK ONLY. International entries are welcome as donations, but if an international entrant wins, they are responsible for the full cost of tracked shipping, import duties, and local taxes.
Free Entry Route: To enter for free, please send a postcard with your name, address, email, and the words "STEAMCARD PRO" to:
The Befriending Scheme 1 The Croft (above Northcroft Social Club) Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 1HN
Free entries must be received by 9th April 2026 to be included in the draw.
YouTube Disclaimer: This prize draw is run by More Fun Fixing It Lee. YouTube is not a sponsor of this contest and has no involvement in its administration. By entering, you provide a complete release of YouTube from any and all liability.
Compliance: All entries must comply with the YouTube Community Guidelines. Entries that do not comply will be disqualified.
Privacy: Data collected during the draw is used solely for the purpose of contacting the winner and is handled by GiveWheel in accordance with GDPR.
FUTURE EVENTS This is just the start of our 2026 fundraising! Coming soon:
Special thanks to: Dave Steamy Briggs (for the prize) The Retro Hardware Discord community
#ZXSpectrum #RetroComputing #MoreFunMakingIt #TheBefriendingScheme #GiveWheel #RetroRepairMore Fun Unpacking Retro Repair Ali Express GoodiesMore Fun Retro 22026-03-18 | In this video, I’m unbagging a fresh haul of items from AliExpress. I’ve picked up a variety of components, tools, and parts specifically for retro-repair and electronics projects. Join me as I go through the packages to see what arrived, check the quality of these budget finds, and discuss how they'll be used in upcoming repairs on the bench.
#AliExpress #RetroRepair #ElectronicsUnboxingRetro Is STILL Cheap! Bargain Hunting at a Retro MuseumMore Fun Retro 22026-03-14 | Special thanks to PCBWay for sponsoring this video. pcbway.com
In this video, I head down to the Retro Collective Cave for their museum jumble sale. It’s becoming harder to find genuine retro bargains, but museum clear-outs of excess stock are still one of the best ways to pick up vintage tech and gaming gear. Watch as I hunt through the piles and show you the absolute killing I made on some classic hardware.
In this episode of More Fun Fixing It, I take on a Commodore 64 with a classic black screen fault and some concerning internal corrosion. After a quick physical fix for a missing keyboard spring, I dig into the diagnostics using the C64 analyzer cartridge. The repair quickly escalates as I discover a bad PLA, a faulty 6510 CPU, and multiple failing 4164 RAM chips. Watch as I work through the logic to determine if this "genuine teak" plastic-covered C64 is still a rescuable machine or destined to be a parts donor.
In this episode of More Fun Fixing It, I take a look at some game-changing diagnostic tools for the Commodore 64. I explore the new Commodore Repair Toolbox by Dennis (HovKlan), a comprehensive resource for board layouts, schematics, and oscilloscope traces. I also test the C64 Analyzer Cartridge V2 from uni64.com, putting it to work on several faulty machines to see if it can truly pinpoint dead PLAs and bad RAM.
Facebook facebook.com/MoreFunMakingItDONT TELL CLIVE! - Retro Tech Repair UnPACKINGMore Fun Retro 22026-02-25 | In this bonus video, I’m doing an AliExpress unbagging focused on tools and supplies for retro tech repairs. From USB-C Power Delivery decoys and flux dispensers to some interesting steel mesh for case repairs, I’m stocking up the workbench for future projects. Also a few random items, including a 72-hour router reset timer and some black hot melt glue.
Links to items - some of these are affiliate links.
In this episode of More Fun Fixing It, we dive into the meticulous process of restoring Commodore 64 keyboards. Dealing with a batch of six keyboards spawned from five restored cases, I test each one to identify non-responsive keys and common issues like flaky space bars and sticky home keys.
Watch as I demonstrate a full teardown, including the removal of the shift lock wires and those tiny brass screws that are the bane of every restorer's life. This project also serves as the perfect field test for the WorkPro 3.7V electric precision screwdriver, which helps speed up the tedious process of removing dozens of fasteners.
Key highlights include: - A "destructive" experiment to prove that C64 rubber pads are graphite-impregnated all the way through, meaning they can be safely cleaned with abrasives like sandpaper. - cleaning gold contact PCBs using isopropyl alcohol and nano sponges. - Tips on checking solder joints and reassembling the keyboard.
Keyboard testing software: CRL Joystick and Keyboard Test and Diagnostics [2021]
Facebook facebook.com/MoreFunMakingItZX Spectrum Floppy and Tape Deck RepairsMore Fun Retro 22026-02-14 | Special thanks to PCBWay for sponsoring this video. Check out their community projects page for open-source mods and fixes for your own retro hardware. pcbway.com
In this video, I’m clearing some space on the bench by finishing up a batch of Amstrad-era ZX Spectrums. Watch as I tackle the messy job of cleaning out degraded "tar" drive belts in two ZX Spectrum +3 disk drives and getting a Gray +2 tape deck back into shape.
In this repair: * Testing & Diagnostics: Using a diagnostics card to verify RAM and system health. * +3 Disk Drive Service: Removing "goo" from the spindles and replacing the 3-inch drive belt. * Grey +2 Tape Repair: Replacing a snapped eject spring and servicing the drive for a successful "Whizball" fast-load.
Facebook facebook.com/MoreFunMakingItRoaming Speccy Part2More Fun Retro 22026-02-11 | It made it back! But it will only be a stopover, as I will soon be sending it back out into the world for even more adventures.
More Fun Website morefunmakingit.co.ukSneaky ZX Spectrum Fault Hiding the TRUTHMore Fun Retro 22026-02-07 | Special thanks to PCBWay for sponsoring this video. Check out their community projects page for open-source mods and fixes for your own retro hardware. pcbway.com
In this episode, I'm repairing a ZX Spectrum Issue 3B that came from a batch of computers previously worked on by another technician. While it initially seemed like a straightforward fix, it turned into a deep dive into the data bus.
After ruling out the ULA and CPU, I discovered that the signals on data lines 5 and 6 weren't reaching a logic high. The culprit? Two partially failed RAM chips (IC20 and IC21) that were dragging the bus down. It’s a great example of why modern chip testers can’t always be trusted—both chips passed several external tests but failed immediately when put to work in the actual machine.
Key moments in this repair: * Initial Triage: Identifying previous "bodges" and a poor composite mod. * Power Rail Checks: Testing for shorts and verifying the voltage regulator. * Diagnostics: Using the Steam Card Pro to pin down IC11 as a failure point. * Advanced Troubleshooting: Using an oscilloscope to identify weak data line signals. * The Solution: Testing pull-up resistor values and replacing the faulty lower RAM.
Facebook facebook.com/MoreFunMakingItUni64.com Sent Some Goodies! BONUS EpisodeMore Fun Retro 22026-02-06 | In this bonus episode, I'm unboxing a massive care package from Matthias at uni64.com. While I don't do many unboxings anymore, the sheer scale of these DIY Commodore 64 projects deserved their own video.
There are several incredible PCB projects, including the uax64 max v5—a full ATX-standard Commodore 64 motherboard featuring seven expansion slots. This board allows for some truly "insane" configurations, including the potential for up to six SID chips and modern connectivity like s-video and integrated internal 1541 support.
Hardware featured in this video: * uax64 max v5: An ATX-sized C64 motherboard with 7 expansion slots. * ulightbox 64 v4: A slim, stackable "tower" C64 recreation with RGB LEDs. * Public Domain SID: A Pi Pico-based SID replacement. * Expansion Modules: Including an FM OPL sound card with a Yamaha YM3812 chip, MIDI interface, 2MB RAM expansion, and an RGB module. * Video/Audio Lag Test Card: A custom-designed tool for measuring input latency.
I’ll be gathering parts for these builds soon, so stay tuned to the main channel for the full assembly process!
Facebook facebook.com/MoreFunMakingItUV Resin Case Repair Part 2More Fun Retro 22026-02-04 | In this video, I’m returning to the topic of UV resins to share how my repair process for Commodore 64 cases has evolved. Thanks to feedback from the community, I've refined the techniques to be much faster and more effective than my previous methods.
I walk through a step-by-step repair of a "wood grain" C64, demonstrating:
* Case Clip Restoration: Using blue tack and UV resin to quickly replace missing or broken clips.
* 3D Printed Screw Posts: A new method using 3D printed PETG sleeves to recreate broken case posts without the frustration of molds.
* Motherboard Post Repair: Replacing snapped internal supports by anchoring new 3D printed posts with UV resin.
Safety Note: Please remember that UV resin is toxic and an irritant. While I move quickly in this demonstration, you should always work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gloves.
You can find the 3D files for the replacement posts on Printables via the links below.
Facebook facebook.com/MoreFunMakingItMega Repair - Will I Be Beaten? - Part 2More Fun Retro 22026-01-31 | It's part two! I honestly gave up trying to fix this machine multiple times. But something just kept making me come back for more. Rest assured there are hours of footage I edited it off this, with a huge amount of work performed off camera too.
How far should you go when repairing a "reluctant" computer? We are about to find out! This ZX Spectrum, from the pile of computers that Paul Universal Retro Boss supplied for repair content, is very poorly. Black and white bars on the screen are not a great clue and diagnostics doesn't help much either. So join me as I start the deep dive into this sick example of a ZX Spectrum 48k.
In this video, I repair two Sinclair ZX81 computers provided by Paul Universal Retro Boss. Both units arrived with white screen issues, which initially seemed like simple candidates for composite modifications.
The diagnostic process for the first unit involved cleaning heavily corroded SRAM legs and troubleshooting a lack of bus activity. I ultimately identified a failed Z80 CPU. After replacing the processor and installing a composite mod board with a 555 timer, the machine was fully restored.
The second unit exhibited similar symptoms, including a halted CPU. Swapping the Z80 processor fixed this unit as well, confirming that both computers suffered from bad silicon rather than ULA failure. I also test the original keyboard membranes and discuss challenges with modern capture devices as well as vintage 16K RAM packs.
In the first video of 2026, I'm diving into a special project: an Issue 1 ZX Spectrum motherboard that was previously upgraded into a Spectrum Plus case. This rare board includes the original 32k daughterboard, but it's failing its memory tests.
Watch as I perform initial safety checks, use a thermal camera to hunt for overheating components, and desolder a faulty TMS4532 DRAM chip from the daughterboard. I also use an oscilloscope to tune out a blue tint in the video output to get the picture looking as original as possible.
Join me for an evening of looking back at the fun I had over the last 12 months. You might not remember some of the stuff I got up to last year, and I certainly don't, but I have an album full of photos to remind me what went on and who did what. Although the names will probably escape me.
It will be a task to get through the last 12 months in one sitting but I am determined and my mind is willing. Let's just see what happens with the body side of things.
Facebook facebook.com/MoreFunMakingItZX Spectrum Toastrack in a Saga 2+ KeyboardMore Fun Retro 22025-12-27 | A rare computer (ZX Spectrum 128k "Toastrack") inside a rare replacement keyboard (Saga 2+). What are the chances there is another one quite like this out there in the world? I will probably see my inbox full of these pretty soon.
Facebook facebook.com/MoreFunMakingItMega Vintage Computer Collection DonationMore Fun Retro 22025-12-24 | In this video, I unbox a massive donation of vintage computers from a viewer named Nigel, who wanted to ensure his collection found a good home rather than ending up as e-waste . From a fully upgraded BBC Micro to a tricked-out Amiga 600, this is the biggest donation the channel has ever seen .
Featured in this collection:
Acorn & BBC: A BBC Micro (Model B) with a Turbo SPI SD loader and an Acorn Electron with extensive "plus" expansions and ROM adapters .
Commodore: A C16, a Plus 4 with JiffyDOS, and a Pi 1541 disk drive emulator .
16-Bit Classics: An Atari STF with an SD4ST+ hard drive emulator and an Amiga 600 featuring 5.5MB of fast RAM and a 3.1 ROM upgrade .
More Tech: A TI-99/4A with a speech synthesizer, an Amstrad CPC 464, and a 200MHz MSO oscilloscope .
ZX Spectrum: A plus 2b model including a Syndicate Edition divMMC .
I also have an Ultimaker 2 Plus 3D printer to give away to a local viewer in the South Suffolk area—check the video for details on how to get in touch via Discord .
A huge thank you to Nigel for his incredible generosity. Some items will join my permanent collection, while others will be given away or sold to benefit a local befriending scheme charity
Another 48k ZX Spectrum on the bench. This one has a problem with its image quality, and it's not an issue 2. That makes things a bit more interesting. Or does it?!
I have a big pile of broken ZX Spectrums from my friend Paul URB. All of these appear to have been worked on in the past and are broken. Here is the first of this set of repairs and this one is quite interesting in a few ways, not least the case modification that someone did to this in the past!
Facebook facebook.com/MoreFunMakingItWhat Did I Buy? Cambridge Bring and Byte December 2025More Fun Retro 22025-12-10 | The Cambridge Centre for Computing History is a fun day out anyway, but having a computer jumble sale hosted there makes it a day I cant miss. Every time I go to these events I never think I will be bringing anything back, and every time I have been wrong! So take a look and see what bargains I picked up in the jumble!