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Simple Repairs YOU Can Make

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Some repairs are very simple and anyone can make them. I am going to tell you about a few of them that I made recently and it saved me a lot of money and grief. Good luck! Let me know if this was helpful by leaving me a blurb.

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Repairing iPod video
Here is a link I found with a video on how to repair a cracked iPod screen step by step - courtesy of John Jenkins.
In my case, I was able to repair the cracked screen for $65.

Original cost - Apple iPod 4th Gen. 20 GB ($300)
Cost of repair - $65 for the part I ordered off eBay.
Time of repair - Approx. 1 hour.

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How to repair...(General guidelines)

Don't be afraid to experiment. Consider it a learning experience.
  1. Determine what is broken and not working properly.
  2. Check to see it is still under warranty by the manufacturer.
  3. Try to identify the component that is broken.
  4. Check to see if the part is available either from the manufacturer or from eBay.
  5. Search on the web to see if help is available...
  6. Get the tools that may be required to disassemble the unit.
  7. Follow directions to disassemble unit and remove the broken component.
  8. Replace the part with a comparable good part and reassemble unit.
  9. Test to see if problem is resolved.
  10. Congratulations! You have just saved yourself $$$.

How to replace a battery on the Palm PDA

Palm Tungsten E2

I wrote this guide on eBay and it is one of my most popular guide.
Palm PDA

Original Cost of Palm Tungsten E2: $200
Cost of Repair: $14 for part off eBay (Torx tool included)
Time of repair: Approx. 1 hour.

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How to fix a dented bumper

Mazda 3

I wrote this guide on eBay to help people save some money on auto body repair.
bumper repair

Cost of Repair: $0
Time of Repair: approx. 2 hours.
Amount saved: $200 (estimate repair cost)

How to repair a TI 83 graphics calculator

I recently found an old TI graphics calculator in the drawer and it is dead. I tried replacing the batteries but it still doesn't work. I decided to open the case and see if there is anything I can do. I got a Torx wrench and unscrew the back and discovered that the contacts where the battery was leading was corroded. I used a swab with some alchohol and cleaned off the contacts. I replace the back and voila it is working now.

Original cost TI83 calculator: $90
Cost of repair: $0
Time of repair: 30 minutes.

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Replacing a halogen bulb

  • Last Christmas, we bought an Angel with fiber optic lights. It was very beautiful and inspiring. However, after some use, the light show stopped working.
    I decided to see if I can replace the bulb. I opened the back with a screwdriver and discovered the bulb to be a small halogen type 2 pin 10 Watt bulb. I took the bulb to the local hardware store and found a replacement. I replaced it and it is working fine.
    Original Cost: $25.
    Cost of repair: $3.50.
    Time of repair: approx. 45 minutes.

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Additional Tips...

Some additional tips when dealing with broken equipment.
  • In the case when self repair does not work, consult with a professional. There are many 3rd party companies that will repair broken iPods etc. They cost a bit more but still better than what the Manufacturer can provide.
  • If you decide not to repair it, don't throw it out. See if you can sell it AS IS on eBay. Some people will but the broken item and salvage it for spare parts.
  • When you are ready to replace your cell phone, keep the old phone as a spare or at minimum keep the battery. They can be sold for spare parts. It is also better for the environment.

Reader Feedback

  • Beautiful1982 May 2, 2010 @ 3:59 pm | delete
    I purchased a used TI-83 calculator on Amazon.com and it worked fine for a few days. Then all of a sudden the enter button stopped working. What could be the issue with the enter button for it to not work? I wanted to send it back but my mom threw away the packaging it came in. I spent over 50 bucks on it.
  • Budworddude Mar 18, 2008 @ 12:06 pm | delete
    Great page Bumper Therapy
  • jackclee Feb 1, 2008 @ 4:26 am | delete
    Terry, I suggest seeking a private repair person. There is nothing to loose. Just find someone who knows electronics and give him a chance.
  • Terry Jan 30, 2008 @ 6:40 am | delete
    Broke my back. Could not use TI 83 for over year tried to use did not work. Changed batteries still did not work. Texas Instruments said hard luck out of warranty. Any suggestions for repair. Terry
  • tplus Dec 15, 2007 @ 11:10 am | delete
    Congratulations! You are #6 at Who Has the Most Lenses?! I've picked this lens to be featured alongside your name. Come check out your competition!
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jackclee

Hi, I'm Jack. I am currently enjoying some time off from work. I worked for IBM for 28 years on various projects dealing with Museums and Libraries. I... more »

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