What is the best way to fix a Nintendo NES?

[erehwon]

I have a couple nintendo nes systems to fix that have been in my closet for a while. What is the best way to fix them? You can buy replacement connectors, but I've heard of issues with those. I've also tried fixing the connector by pulling up the pins. It worked somewhat, but is still not working completely. I'm not sure what else I can do.

[goodtofufriday]

I usually pull the connecters pretty far out, and use a bent paper clip (in the form of a small hook) to push out the top row of pins. Then using a credit card and paper towels covered in rubbing alcohol. Those steps have gotten any NES's I've worked on working 100%

[APE992]

Some replacement connectors are quality and others are "refurbished" which apparently means "we buy trashed NESes and clean up the old, worn out connector inside".

I've been really tempted to buy a 72pin connector from Digi-Key and simply wire it into the console directly. Cut a hole in the top and no longer bother with it being a toaster. OTOH it might be possible to do that internally and simply not have the ability to push the cartridge down.