Disassemble the Playstation 2

1. Unplug the power and A/V connector from the back.
2. Remove all controllers and memory cards.
3. On the rear of the console, cut along the crack of the warning sticker, or remove it entirely.


This sticker is cool: it says VOID all over it once removed so it cannot be replaced.

4. Turn the unit upside-down and locate the screw covers. These are tiny (1cm x 1cm) squares. Older models have 8. Newer models have 12: 4 are offset on the ridge area toward the front of the console.


The 30001 has 8 of these; the 4 corner covers are rubber.

5. Pry these covers out by their corners with a small flathead, knife, or fingernail. Set them aside.
6. Remove the 8 or 12 phillips-head screws under the feet.
7. Rotate the top cover upward toward the front of the console. BE CAREFUL! If you meet resistence, check that sticker in the back. DO NOT RIP the cable that leads from the cover to the base. If this cable rips, your PS2 is probably as good as dead.
8. Remove the tape (yellow arrow in picture below) that holds the cable.
9. To completely separate the cover from the base, you need to remove the Power/Eject switch from the cover. To do this, put a flathead screwdriver or knife blade between the plastic switch and the cover (there's a tiny slot where you can fit one), then gently pry upward (away from the cover). Once it pops out of place, slide it toward the back of the cover to remove the switch. This is not necessary, but is recommended to be sure you don't ruin this fragile cable.


Pop it upward out of place then slide it back.

10. Remove the 4 small screws on the disc tray cover (red arrows below) with either a small screwdriver or a knife if you don't have one.



11. Lift the disc tray cover off and set it aside. Some models may require additional screws to be removed to remove the disc tray cover.