Pin broken off in SMS controller connector

[Cornelius]

So I've got an SMS controller with a pin broken off in the connector. It is pushed in a little bit, so I don't think grabbing it with tweezers or pliers is much of an option. Anyone have a likely method of getting it out, or am I better off just cutting the cord and patching in a new one? I'm imagining stuffing gum in there and extracting it, though that obviously won't work.

[jb143]

It would probably be easier to replace the entire cord.

[megasdkirby]

You mean the DB9 connector? I think that can be replaced.

[Gameguy]

Replacing the whole cord from a broken controller would probably be easiest. Maybe even from a Genesis controller or something else using the same connection. Splicing the end would also work but it would probably look really bad doing that.

[Bratwurst]

A Sega controller extension cord would be a perfect donor candidate for this issue.

[Gameguy]

A Sega controller extension cord would be a perfect donor candidate for this issue.
That would work too. In my experience though it's harder to find extension cables compared to actual controllers, especially for official Sega cables compared to generic. Just as a collectible, official Sega extension cables might be worth more than a controller too.

Also, if you're using a generic extension cable make sure it's really for Sega consoles and not for older Atari style consoles. They use the same connector but usually not all the pins are wired. They were simpler controllers not needing all pins so they just saved some cost.

I miss when thrift stores had all this stuff all the time. It used to be easy finding various Sega controllers and cables, it's been ages since I've seen any for sale. Even looking for a Gamecube controller for a friend it's been months and I've found nothing.

Edit: Also look for any broken Sega accessory like light guns, Menacer receiver boxes, multitaps, etc. Anything with a Sega plug could be used, the only thing to consider is the cord length. Assuming you'll want to replace the whole cord and not just splice the end.

[Bratwurst]

Also, if you're using a generic extension cable make sure it's really for Sega consoles and not for older Atari style consoles. They use the same connector but usually not all the pins are wired. They were simpler controllers not needing all pins so they just saved some cost.

I bought a cheap generic not long ago for a project I'll be working on and can confirm every pin is connected end to end:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/322831507301

And though I don't have this one on hand to verify how thorough the pin connections are, advertising it for the Master System suggests it'd be good to go if you wanted a nearly ten foot controller cord, of course.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/160846749486