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iPod 3rd Generation Rear Panel Replacement

Introduction

The shiny rear half or your iPod case.

What you need

  1. iPod 3rd Generation Rear Panel Replacement, iPod 3rd Generation Rear Panel Replacement: step 1, image 1 of 1

    • Before opening your iPod, ensure that the hold switch is in the locked position. The orange bar should be visible, indicating hold is active.

  2. iPod 3rd Generation Rear Panel Replacement: step 2, image 1 of 2 iPod 3rd Generation Rear Panel Replacement: step 2, image 2 of 2

    • Opening the case can be challenging. Do not get discouraged if it takes you a few tries before the iPod is opened.

    • Insert a large iPod opening tool into the seam between the plastic front and metal rear panel of the iPod, near the headphone jack. The tool's edge should point toward the metal rear panel to prevent any accidental scratching of the plastic front.

    • Run the tool along the top seam toward the upper left corner of the iPod.

  3. iPod 3rd Generation Rear Panel Replacement: step 3, image 1 of 1

    • Push the large iPod opening tool into the upper left corner of the iPod, creating a small gap along the side seam.

  4. iPod 3rd Generation Rear Panel Replacement: step 4, image 1 of 2 iPod 3rd Generation Rear Panel Replacement: step 4, image 2 of 2

    • There are five retaining tabs on each side of the iPod.

    • With the large iPod opening tool still inserted in the top seam, press a small iPod opening tool into the gap you just created.

    • Run the iPod opening tool down the side seam, releasing all five tabs.

    • It may be necessary to wiggle the tool while working your way down the seam to free all the tabs.

  6. iPod 3rd Generation Rear Panel Replacement: step 5, image 1 of 2 iPod 3rd Generation Rear Panel Replacement: step 5, image 2 of 2

    • Run the iPod opening tool around the lower left corner of the iPod and along the bottom seam to free the two retaining tabs near the dock connector.

    • Run the tool around the lower right corner of the iPod and along the right side seam to free all five retaining tabs.

    • The case of the iPod should now easily come loose. Ensure all retaining tabs are free before proceeding.

  7. iPod 3rd Generation Rear Panel Replacement: step 6, image 1 of 1

    • The iPod case is now open, but don't separate the two halves just yet. There is still an orange ribbon cable connecting the headphone jack to the logic board.

    • Open the case like a book with the dock connector at the top, and lay the rear panel next to the front half of the iPod.

  8. iPod 3rd Generation Rear Panel Replacement: step 7, image 1 of 2 iPod 3rd Generation Rear Panel Replacement: step 7, image 2 of 2

    • Use a plastic tool or your fingernails to carefully disconnect the orange headphone jack cable. Be sure to pull straight up on the connector, not the cable itself.

    • The headphone jack connector is unusually tall. When prying, be careful to not separate the lower, plastic part of the connector from the ribbon cable. Pry between the connector and the socket, not between the two halves of the connector.

  9. iPod 3rd Generation Rear Panel Replacement: step 8, image 1 of 1

    • Remove the 3 silver Philips screws securing the headphone jack to the rear panel.

  10. iPod 3rd Generation Rear Panel Replacement: step 9, image 1 of 1

    • Slide a spudger beneath the orange headphone jack cable and use it to pry the cable up from the rear panel.

  11. iPod 3rd Generation Rear Panel Replacement: step 10, image 1 of 1

    • Grasp the headphone jack board and lift it out of the iPod.

    • When reassembling your iPod, be sure that the plastic hold switch mechanism is synced with the hold switch on the logic board. The switch on the board is a small black nub that sits in the slot on the hold switch mechanism.

  12. iPod 3rd Generation Rear Panel Replacement: step 11, image 1 of 1

    • Rear panel remains.

Conclusion

To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.

Author

System

Member since: 09/24/09

2,562 Guides authored

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