Trash to Treasure: Restoring a 44-year-old VIC 20 and make it NEW again!

🕹️ In this episode, I look at doing a light restoration of the VIC 20 purchased in the previous video. The aim is to ensure this historic computer is safe to operate, cleaned, serviced and ready for many more decades of use.
🚀 Will I be able to get it looking and operating like NEW again?
💡 Additional Retrobright Tips
1) Thoroughly clean plastics before using Hydrogen Peroxide. Any dirt or previously applied solutions like plastic protectant WILL cause a marbling effect.
2) Remove metal badges using a hairdryer and pin lifting labels from an edge. Keep the label as flat as possible when lifting it up.
3) The diluted Hydrogen Peroxide solution (seen in this video) may take several days to achieve a result. The water needs to be warm. Check on the progress every 30 minutes - also ensure the plastic remains under water.
4) Results using the above method may not be perfect. For example heat damaged spots may not lighten as much as UV damaged areas. In which case, use cream Hydrogen Peroxide (40 Vol 12%) applied evenly to the plastic. Wrap the case in plastic wrap, and place in direct sunlight for 2-3 hours.
5) Don't be afraid using sandpaper to even out surfaces and remove the shine from the front part of the breadbin case. Ensure you wet sand using 400-600 grit paper in circlular motions across the affected area.
🙏 Thanks for watching! Become a member and support me on:
Patreon: / evansretrolane
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🔗 Links
I purchased all the parts used in this video from:
Retroleum www.retroleum.co.uk/
Retro8BITshop retro8bitshop.com/
Retro Fuzion www.retrofuzion.com/
The Future was 8bit www.tfw8b.com/product/vic20-p...
🎵 Music
Infinity Produced by Aries Beats • Aries Beats - Infinity...
Space Moon Produced by Aries Beats • 1h Free No Copyright M...
Breakfast Club Produced by Danya Vodovoz • Breakfast Club - 80s r... , Royalty Free Music
Electric Vibe Produced by G.Socarras @ Digital Synthwave • ELECTRIC VIBE- /Synthw...
Night Rider by jiglr • jiglr - Night Rider
💾 Index
00:00 In This Video
00:51 Introduction
01:42 Initial Testing
05:43 VIC-20 Disassembly
07:08 VIC-20 Case
09:53 Datasette
11:08 VIC-20 Keyboard
14:36 VIC-20 Motherboard
16:40 Joystick
18:45 Reassembly and Testing
20:49 The Big Reveal
22:40 Final Thoughts
On the road to 500 subscribers !! So go ahead and subscribe to be kept in the loop of all things retro! 🥰
Subscription Count:
208 Subscribers - July 13th 2024
#retrocomputers #nostalgiatrip #80s #90s #nostalgicjourney #vintagevibes #retrogaming #retrogames #commodorevic20 #vic20 #techhistory #techeducation #restoration

[@MyraBiusing]

Wow what a transformation! The reveal is so satisfying. Really appreciate the side-by-side comparison 🤩

[@EvansRetroLane]

Thanks so much Myra! Glad you enjoyed this restoration, especially the big reveal!

[@Starchface]

The retrobrighting needed a lot of time. That's probably because you used only a 6% H202 solution and diluted it down to perhaps 1%, while others commonly use a 12% solution or cream product without dilution.
*However* you have achieved a phenomenal result with "a little" extra time and a shot of strong Aussie sunshine. The VIC-20 looks absolutely magnificent. You should be proud of this addition to your collection!

[@EvansRetroLane]

Thanks for watching and your comment! I'm extremely pleased it turned out. You're right, it was probably a little too weak. It took 3-5 days to get a result and I did top-up the H202 a few times. My PET style VIC 20 was retrobrighted using a cream solution, and that completed in only a few hours.

[@Sozzled39]

Nice to see another old computer restored to it's former glory! Just to let you know "Trash to Treasure" has been trademarked by the RMC Retro channel so you might want to adjust the title.

[@EvansRetroLane]

I appreciate the info Andrew, I'll look into it. Thanks for watching.

[@J0ermungand]

You sir need more subs. 😊

[@EvansRetroLane]

You're too kind - I'm hoping it will pick up. Thanks for your support. Very much appreciated.

[@DanieleBarbi]

#commodore forever !

[@EdwardianTeaChest]

The restored VIC-20 looks like it has just rolled off the production line. :)

[@EvansRetroLane]

I'm glad it turned out as well as it did! I'm hoping it stays this way 😄. Thanks for watching.

[@tenminutetokyo2643]

You can rebuild the CN2 circuit board for just a couple bucks. But the disassembly and wiring is a bit difficult. You can also build a new VICKY TWENTY new VIC-20 using a brand new PCB with an old case and keyboard.

[@EvansRetroLane]

It's great all these options are available to us. I've purchased several C2N Datasettes with various issues over the years. Luckily managed to fix them all without having to replace the circuit board. Most just needed cleaning, replacement of bands, small adjustments if they're grinding against other parts, or an azimuth alignment. Thank you for your comment and for watching.

[@HalianTheProtogen]

Another common failure mode on Commodore computers is that the foam-and-foil discs underpinning each key fail; thankfully, replacements are readily available.

[@EvansRetroLane]

That's an important point! I should've checked the keyboard before soldering back the shift lock key. Most keys work but there are a few that need extra presses. I'm going to try rub the conductive discs with paper. If they're worn, I might look up these replacements. Thanks for watching and subscribing.