GT Screen mod and cap info

[exiged]

Hi Guys,

I've just picked up a PCE GT and wow, what a console this is to say its around 30 years old!, i dreamt of one of these when i was a kid. I'm just waiting for the cap kit to turn up before i do a full re-cap.

It currently works fine with just a little buzzing to the audio, but having read about the original capacitors id like to change them out and to the LCD screen upgrade.

I've seen two methods to remove the existing SMD capacitors, one was to twist them off and the other was to cut into them using a pair of flush cutters. With having no hot air station, what would you say was the best method of removal to limit damaging board traces?.

After the re-cap i'm looking to do the screen mod. There's a seller on ETSY called nacroretro selling a kit with a quick install PCB that seems to remove the need for the ribbon cable work. Does anyone have experience with this kit?

Many thanks

[MasterofBiscuits]

Personally I cut them off, just make sure to cut parallel with the pads so you don't stress them. For the larger ones, some gentle twisting will help (slow pressure).

That kit on Etsy looks like the LCDDRV clone from Aliexpress marked up double: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005001411506600.html
Easy install pcb: https://console5.com/store/turbo-express-pc-engine-gt-rgb-breakout-easy-install-pcb-for-rgbdrv-lcddrv.html
Screen bracket: https://console5.com/store/turbo-express-pc-engine-gt-3-5-lcd-bracket-install-kit.html
Screen lens: https://console5.com/store/pc-engine-gt-3-5-glass-lens-screen-cover-for-lcd-swaps-pc-engine.html

[exiged]

Cheers, i managed the re-cap using the twist method and the sound is like new now, im pretty sure the screen contrast has improved too.

I'm looking forward to the screen mod now!