iPod Classic 2G Repair Guide

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Welcome to the RapidRepair iPod Classic 2nd generation take-apart repair guide. Here we show (in nearly sickening detail) the internals of the new iPod Classic 2G and how to safely reach them in a few easy steps. Be sure to check our iPod Classic 2G parts pages for replacement iPod screens, batteries and more.

The Technician notes:
There are a several minor hardware updates in a familiar shape in the new iPod Classic 120GB.  The new Classic is the same size and has the same form factor as its predecessor.  However, with the exception of the LCD, most sub-components inside the new classic are slightly updated from the versions used in the previous Classic.  Despite the visual and minor series updates, we found that all parts from both models are forwards and backwards compatible.  The unit is still very difficult to open, so novice DIY’s might want to think twice about it and send it in…

The Technician states:
Unlike the latest iPod Touch and Nano, it seems as if Apple has found a design it really likes with the full-sized iPod Classic.  Not only is it an aesthetic twin from its release a year earlier, but the hardware used and functions provided have not seen any significant changes either.  Also worth noting, this 6th generation iPod, has a nearly identical form factor and component design/layout to the 5.5th gen of two years ago and the 5th gen from 3 years ago.  This suggests Apple and its customers have been very happy with this mature design.

 

		Prepare   Tools required: Small Phillips Screw Driver Small Flathead or exacto razor Safe Open Tool Repair Toolkit available HERE Gather all neccesary tools and place your iPod Classic 2G on a clean flat surface, use a soft cloth or towel to place under it.
		Contents Same old usual suspects: earbuds, dock adapter, USB cable, and manual. What a nice looking iPod Classic (Black in case your color blind.)
		Step 1 Using the razor, insert into the gap between the backing and front panel. (You can also use a plastic spudge tool or three.)
		Step 2 Take the razor and remove the battery from the molex plug on the mainboard. This clip lifts up easily allowing you to unplug the ribbon cable.
		Step 3 With the battery disconnected we can flip the Toshiba 120GB MK1231GAL drive out of the unit. Remove the clip for the drive, LCD, headphone jack, and clickwheel at this point. Set aside the back panel now. Apple has really saved on costs by developing some of the chips onboard as shown.
		Step 4 There are 6 phillips screws that need to be removed in this step (they are visible, 3 on each side). After the screws are removed, pull the silver frame away from the front panel.
		Step 4 Cont. Picture showing the clickwheel and board with frame. The LCD should have been removed already. Clickwheel part number: ASSY#631-0457
		Step 4 Cont. Just a glance at the LCD and back panel.
		Step 5 The board is held on with 2 phillips screws located right next to the center button. After these screws are removed, you can separate the board from the frame.
		Step 5 Cont. Close-up of the Classic 2G Mainboard.
		Step 6 Shot of the new drive (we had this single platter drive long before the release of the new Classic 2G ;)) Toshiba part number: MK1231GAL Now I wonder where that dual platter 240GB drive is at???
		Step 7 - FINISHED If you need to remove the battery and headphone jack, simply peel them up from the mild strength adhesive on the back panel. Enjoy trying to put this back together! simply follow the steps in reverse. Thanks for looking! Part numbers: Battery: APN 616-0412, VPN GB-S10-642046-0500 Hold SW: 821-0399-01 Headphone jack: FOXLINK 632-0371 120GB IDE Cable: 821-0728-01 Front Panel: FOXCONN 805-7971-A LCD Screen: NWP74-MAA4A121 Clickwheel: 821-0545-A Mainboard: 820-2437-A