replacing boot on controller

[bigbacon]

So...I have a suitable tool to pop the top....but how hard is it to remove them? Feel like I'm going to break the controller. tips?

[chas10e]

http://atariage.com/forums/topic/203426-any-trick-for-taking-the-plastic-handle-off-of-the-controller/

 

it was pretty tough

 

I think I used the vice grips on bottom of shaft that fits in the cup & twisting while pulling method

 

also working on a way for a better self centering

[bohoki]

its not easy remoing the black part off the metal u ended up putting a leather glove on the controller to protect it and used a claw hammer to lever it up

[Geotrick]

The service manual shows a tool made of a flat piece of metal with a 90' bend and a groove cut out of the end. Easy to make with a vise and hacksaw. You do have to use a bit of force but do it gradually. You will feel it starting to give.

Make the bend end long enough for the bend to rest on the outer edge just past the ring for least amount of damage.

 

[atari-dna]

Caveat: using the knob pulling tool (insert phallic joke here) can sometimes cause the control knob and shaft to pop through the square block in the actuator plates.

This problem is easily remedied with long nose vice grips attached right above the plastic base of the metal shaft, which act as a base for the fulcrum to give you the proper leverage. Note, you have to separate the controller halves before using this technique. I've done this a few times with great success and no damage!

I'll attach photos later to better illustrate.