29th May 2015, 12:20 PM
The biggest issue with N64 analog sticks, which are otherwise very well designed (superior to modern stick design in many ways), are that they break down.
As it turns out, the basic technology isn't the issue. It's the plastic. The analog stick is supported by two plastic "cradles" which directly rub against the stick itself as it moves around, eventually grinding away the plastic of the cradles and, as the assembly lowers from that grinding, starts eating away at the lower housing. The lower housing isn't too important (though it is why you see that powder), but the cradle is. This video shows a very effective trick to fixing those cradles. Please note that this method works best on especially worn cradles, as that wear and tear gives the rubber grommet space to fit. If your controller is new and unworn, then don't worry about this repair yet.
Note: I apologize for the quality of this video. This is amazing information but this is the best video I could find, and that means blurry shakycam in vertical aspect ratio for you.
As it turns out, the basic technology isn't the issue. It's the plastic. The analog stick is supported by two plastic "cradles" which directly rub against the stick itself as it moves around, eventually grinding away the plastic of the cradles and, as the assembly lowers from that grinding, starts eating away at the lower housing. The lower housing isn't too important (though it is why you see that powder), but the cradle is. This video shows a very effective trick to fixing those cradles. Please note that this method works best on especially worn cradles, as that wear and tear gives the rubber grommet space to fit. If your controller is new and unworn, then don't worry about this repair yet.
Note: I apologize for the quality of this video. This is amazing information but this is the best video I could find, and that means blurry shakycam in vertical aspect ratio for you.