How to replace your Xbox DVD laser

I changed my name from iCanshowyouhow to Capm_Crunch so that I don't have to remember a bunch of different user names. Anyway, here is how to make an Xbox work for $12 instead of $50. This Xbox, a friend got out of a dumpster and gave it to me.

Step 1 Disassembly

This is the point when you wonder if it is really worth taking your XBox apart. If you do, then Microsoft won't even touch it with a 10 foot pole. If you really want to, then continue, otherwise send your XBox into Microsoft. There are six screws: one under each foot and one under the void logo and another sticker (I can't remember, so just look at the picture!) A Leatherman Wave or tool with a very small flat head screwdriver will work if you don't have a hex.

Comments

[Yerboogieman]

even if it didnt work you could gut it out and put laptop parts in it for a regular computer, maybe even desktop parts

[theghost741]

Torx drivers are what you should be using, not hex or flat head...

[Yerboogieman]

mhm

[uzerzero]

Unfortunately though, that Thompson drive won't last for long at all. I've been modding and repairing Xbox consoles since they came out, and the most common issue I've seen is Thompson drives going bad. It was the first drive MS used, and just wasn't very high quality. Even with a new laser, it'll probably only last one to two years, not to mention that they can only read DVD-R discs, and are incompatible with CD-RW. If you were planning on fixing this up and selling it/giving it away/using it for a long time so you can impress your kids with ancient video game consoles, I would recommend following one of the guides on replacing the entire DVD drive. In my experience, Philips drives were some of the best, as they could read most burnable media and game discs, and had a very long life. Granted, it is more expensive, but it's more idiotproof and longer lasting.

[gamer]

too bad i dont have an x-box, would just changing the dvd drive wor, if yes, ill try to find myself an x-box to fix... nice project

[Capm_Crunch]

Yeah, this Xbox only powered on and didn't even read music discs (the friend that gave it to me had ripped usher to it, but that was it) but, when i put the new laser in it works fine. I play games on it now. pretty good for dumpster diving.