Zelotes C-18 Joystick Replacement

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Introduction

Having a hard time moving your joystick? This guide will teach you how to safely remove and replace the joystick on the Zelote vertical mouse C-18.

The joystick controls directional input and may stop functioning due to dust buildup, internal connection issues, and extended use. Replacing it can help restore accurate movement and responsiveness.

Be careful and take care when handling internal components, joystick connectors, and ribbon cables are fragile and can be easily damaged if twisted or pulled.

Before beginning, unplug the mouse from your computer and work on a clean and static-free surface.

What you need

Step 1 Case

Zelotes C-18 Joystick Replacement, Case: step 1, image 1 of 3

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Zelotes C-18 Joystick Replacement, Case: step 1, image 3 of 3

Use an opening pick to gently pry off the mouse feet and stickers on the bottom of the mouse to expose four hidden screws.
Keep the feet to reattach later, or replace them with new ones (spare pads are usually included).

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Step 2

Using a Phillips #0 screwdriver to remove the four 9 mm-long screws on the bottom of the mouse.

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Step 3

Zelotes C-18 Joystick Replacement: step 3, image 3 of 3

Carefully separate the top and bottom casing—DO NOT PULL QUICKLY, as ribbon cables connect both halves.
The ribbon cable connectors have small plastic locking tabs that hold them in place.
Using a spudger, carefully lift the locking tab by gently alternating pressure on each side until it’s in the unlocked position
Do not remove the tab completely, as it is attached to the connector.
Detach the ribbon cables by gently pulling them straight (perpendicularly) away from the motherboard.
You should not need much force — if you do, the tab may not be fully unlocked.
When reattaching, insert the cable back into its socket and press the locking tab down into place using the flat end of the spudger.

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Step 4 Joystick

Zelotes C-18 Joystick Replacement, Joystick: step 4, image 1 of 2

Zelotes C-18 Joystick Replacement, Joystick: step 4, image 2 of 2

After lifting the top casing, remove the right mouse button.
Remove the two 9 mm-long Phillips screws to separate the parts.
Separate the halves by grabbing the device in both hands, bottom facing up, and clips near you, then open.

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Step 5

Locate the joystick module and inspect how it is attached before applying any force.
Unscrew the plastic bracket securing the joystick to the right side of the top casing using the size Phillips #0 screwdriver to take out the two 7 mm-long screws.

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Step 6

Remove the motherboard from the case.
Gently disconnect the joystick from its motherboard.
Clean the surrounding area and the joystick contacts with a damped cotton swab of isopropyl alcohol.