Reminder: There is a tool available to replace most of the exacto blades: www.amazon.com/Fixinus-Spudger-Opening-Stainless-Electronic/dp/B06XHG3G33/ref=sr_1_4?crid=1IV012AEA1XFT&keywords=ipod%2Btool&qid=1672009541&sprefix=ipod%2Btool%2Caps%2C139&sr=8-4&th=1 eBay item number:125482246283
I already know this guide is WAY better than iFixit's guide. In iFixit's guide, you have to use a big knife and you will have to bend the back to the proper spot. In this guide, you just use a tiny screwdriver and 3 exacto knifes and you don't have to bend the back to it's proper spot. I am definitely going to use this guide to replace my iPod Classic's battery. Thank you!
9 years later you are still helping people out, my friend...thank you! I had none of the proper tools for this and slippy hands so I don't trust myself with knives, ha... I did use a knife first to loosen up the gaps but then ended up using the smallest flathead screwdriver I had to wiggle it open the rest of the way, and then used a few guitar picks to hold the clips open while I worked on the other sides. Bottom was the toughest part but I got it all open without damage, shockingly... now I can replace my broken hard drive with a nice new SSD! Thank you again friend!!!
How time flies when your having fun. I'm glad you got your ipod open. I found most success with the large FashionSprout SSD's on ebay. They are cheap and reliable. If you want more memory then Tarkan's iFlash works great. Have fun.
I have now switched over to iflash adapter only using the quad model. I buy the sd cards on Newegg as they have the best price and guarantee they are authentic. I don't use the Tarkan hard drive ribbon as I found them to be too thin and can cause sad face issues.
Thank you! I bought some plastic tools on eBay and they broke immediately! Using x-acto knives as you suggested and showing where to put them, I had my IPOD open and battery exchanged in about 15 minutes! No breaks, scratches, she's working again! Forever grateful!
THANK YOU. I managed beautifully with my 7th gen. thanks to this video (only i used flat blades): i opened the ipod, replaced the hard drive with an SD card and closed it again in just 30 minutes and with absolutely no damage to the case.
I would just like to say a BIG thank you for your video. It was more than just helpful. I'm good with electronics but I had never opened an iPod before & your video was the BEST METHOD! The absolutely useless plastic tools you get with the replacement battery were hopeless. I tried to use them in combination with the knife blades & they didn't do anything. Big thanks once again for taking the time to do this video. Your the best.
Thanks for this tutorial, buddy! The detailed explanation and the closeup camera really helps. In a month or so I’ll finally have all the new parts for my iPod and I’ll be opening it up. I’ll update this comment to let everyone know if your tips were successful!
this is the most detailed 6th generation front plate and back plate disassembly i have seen. i wish i had seen this earlier as i had already made a scratch on my ipod. two thumbs up. thank you for making the video.
Thanks for the video. It's much better than the procedure over at iFixit. I used a #18 flat chisel blade instead of the curved carving blade that you used. The advantage of it is that the bevel is on one side only. When inserting the blade, place the beveled side down (i.e. toward the back of the iPod). This makes it easy to get the blade in without its slipping or marring the edge of the front panel. Also note the once the side has been pried away slightly, it is possible to peek in with a flashlight and see exactly where the clips are; they are between the protrusions in the clip rail. The blade may need to be repositioned so that it is between the protrusions. As you mentioned, the blades are very sharp. I would also like to add that they are also brittle, so eye protection is a good idea.
SHUKRAN! that video was beyond helpful, I was about to ship it off to iPod and pay 62.00 to have the battery replaced! "I've already learned how to replace these types of batteries, I lacked the know-how in opening ipods! Again thanks a million!
Followed your opening sequence, was easier to do than I expected. Changing the battery was more difficult, breathed a sigh of relief when it powered up. Thanks.
Best video for opening up an iPod Classic on TH-cam hands down! Went and got myself xacto knives from my local hardware store and followed your instructions to the letter cause you had the easiest time opening up the darn thing. iPod open in under 15 minutes. THANK YOU!
Thank you for the great video! I just opened my 7th Generation Classic for the first time to replace the headphone jack. I decided to try a 5-piece metal Spudger Tool set and I was very pleased with the results. No damage to the case at all. If you're opening the bottom, make sure you're not inserting too close to the charging port. There's a small plastic bracket screwed into the back that it lines up to and a sharp tool can split the plastic. Again thank you, this video helped me a lot!
By far the best video that I could find on opening an iPod. Others put me off the idea but this gave me the confidence to revive an old classic by replacing the HD with SD cards and replacing the battery. Nothing broken, no injuries and half the price of taking it to a shop. Thanks.
I couldn’t get into mine, it’s one tight little iPod. Despite my failure, yours is still yours is the best instructional video on this that i watched. To the point, you’re not selling anything, and i can clearly see what you’re doing. Thanks for the video!
Amazing disassembly video, very helpful. Been doing phone repair for 5 years now - have never met this iPod before. Author's explanations helped a lot.
@@artman102 Hi John's, I have made a comment earlier, I am just watching this videos now. The opening of the iPod, you made it so easy with the BLADES KNIVES. PLEASE, HOW DO I ORDERED FOR 3 or 4 OF THOSE KNIVES? THE HOLDER WILL MAKE IT SO SAFE FOR AN OLD MAN. THANKS.
If this video is yours i have to tell you that someone uploaded it to its channel without giving you credit. Your video helped me alot and its the only one in youtube that is perfectly correct.I have opened 2 ipod classic, first took me about 30 minutes, when a see the exact shape of the clips it took me 5 minutes to open the second one. Thanks to you my ipod has no sign of being opened.
Thanks for the video ! I replaced the battery in my 7th Gen Ipod and it was exactly as described in the instructions. Although opening the case with an exacto knife took a little doing, I found marking the location of the clips with a black marker made it easier. *Thin* exacto blades are the way to go....Med blades are too thick to fit between the back and the case. Double check the battery ribbon connection before putting the back on....give it a little tug so you know it's firmly in place. No marks....no dents....no scratches....works great.
Thank you. Clear explanation, step by step. It's also nice that you show what you do instead of only explaining it. I was able to open my iPod Classic 160GB thanks to this video. I ordered the opening toolset, but was unable to open it with that, the iPod was closed to tight as you explained. Knives worked great. I would like to add something that worked for me, which was shoving a small screwdriver into the side first to loosen it up a bit. With the exception of that I did exactly this. Thanks
Your approach makes it easy and prevents damage to case. I used Husky feeler gauges from Home Depot. They come apart with a screw and have a bend at one end that made the job simple. Had mine apart in just a couple minutes. Thanks.
Good Evening all. I just performed this on a damaged IPOD that had never been opened. One thing I found instead of an exacto knife, is the old fashion Spark Plug gapping tool that looks like small metal blades. I took mine apart, and got the thinnest ones on it and used them all the way around the IPOD and it worked great with no potential nerve severing!!
Wow!! I used this technique with the "Professional Opening Pry Tool Repair Kit" from Amazon and it came right off. Really, no trouble and done in a few minutes. The only other bit I added was some duck tape on the cover to both protect against scratches and alsoI marked the areas as this video's creator suggested. Now, to try to replace the HD w/ a Tarkan iFlash-Solo SDXC Adapter.
THANK YOU ! man this is the only method that worked for me. actually used a utility knife but it has to be a fresh sharp blade. my 6th gen was much harder to open than the 7th gen for the record.
This tutorial is great! I was not able to make any progress using plastic tools but when I used my xacto knife along with a long thin box cutter/razor blade (keeping one in while I used the other for the next clip) I was able to unlock the clips easily using this video as a guide.
This method does work. I tried the plastic pry tools and they all broke. Also if the shape blades are a concern I read this is previous comments, file the blade just enough to dull the edge. Thanks John S.
Thank you for your tutorial video. Your efforts are MUCH APPRECIATED. I have read elsewhere the same as you stated, "the IPOD CLASSIC" is difficult to open and work with, but YOU DID GREAT!! Your video really helps.
Thanks for the guide - very useful. Rather than exacto knife, I used the IFIXIT tools - the jimmy works to release the clips very well, while the 4 piece metal spudger/pry tools set does the rest. Used Tarkan's iFlash mSATA SSD adaptor plus new battery and back to new!! No damage or dents at all on either part of the case.
Thank you so much. This very clear walk through helped my through my first 6th gen disassemble. Before I got to this vid I was ready to throw it at the wall, and I had already chipped off a lot of the paint on the side of the black faceplate, lol. Thanks again!
This video is amazing Way better than the IFIXIT method. I ruined my screen doing it their way. Opening my Ipod because after almost a decade my ipod HDD died...
I would wrap both halves of the ipod with electrical tape right under the slots just to protect them from any slips of the knives that might scratch them.
I',m into model RC planes so I have lots of hobby knives available. I have dissected ipods before and it has been nasty separating the two halves of the case. This video makes it simple. Thanks!
Best Video i have a 5th gen classic and the clips are in the same exact spot. unfortunately i just found this video and watched another on replacing the battery which did not mention the clips. i had some widening of the silver back when i put it back together. I used the rubber ends of a pair of needle nose pliers and a hammer to sort of bang it back in shape does not look the same but i have a case oh well i will refer this vid next time i open and try and purchase the shiny back somehow and replace the warped one.
To answer a previous question. Yes, you can convert an ipod video to a SSD memory. Up to 1TB. I have used mostly Kingspec or Fashionsprout ZIF SSD. Update: 5-18-2019, I have recently upgraded an ipod classic 7.5gen 160gb to a 1 TB, using an Msata memory and a Tarkan adapter. I used a standard battery so I could charge it using a standard USB cable. Larger batteries are tempting, but the ipod charging ic's are very weak and can easily blow a trace if over worked. Note: Msata can cause issues if they are 3D or specifically meant for a laptop. It appears that the cheaper modules work best. I get mine from Newegg.com. Classic ipods are generally limited to about 50,000 titles but using Rockbox firmware, you can get around this limit. Update: I just built a 1TB ipod using the large 3000 Mah battery and it works great. I have charged it and it seems to charge fine with no issues. The advantage of the larger battery is that the ipod can sit for a year and still be nearly full. Plus it plays for over 120 hours of music. www.ebay.com/itm/1-8-ZIF-256gb-ssd-Replace-MK1634GAL-160gb-for-ipod-7th-classic-Disk-Drive-HDD-/121818113587?hash=item1c5cece633:g:DQkAAOSwJcZWeO2m www.ebay.com/itm/KingSpec-1-8-ZIF-SSD-128GB-for-DELL-D420-D430-Inspiron-Mini-12-LATITUDE-XT-/371381191684?hash=item56780b4404:g:NlUAAOSwq7JTzcZe Remember that only the ipod classic 7.5 gen and some 5th gen ipods can utilize drives larger than 128gb. 7.5 classic is 160gb thin version Model MC297LL
Thanks. i struggled a bit to get it going, but open it did, aand i didn't destroy the cover's clips like last time, all my fingers and nerves are still attached. Cheers.
Hi Carol: The reason he did not want to work on your ipod nano 1st gen is that he would have to charge more than the ipod is worth. You did not state the issue you are having, likely the battery is bad, or worse, moisture damage. To open that model I use the green tools and bend the side metal tabs as I open it. Just bend them back before closing it up. You will usually get a set of tools when you buy a battery from a good seller on ebay. thanks, John
Hello John, you can chalk-up one more successfully repaired iPod classic thanks in no small part to your very didactic video. Minor adjustment, as I did not have x-acto knives, I used a pair of mini swiss army pocket knives (the smallest type, one blade, one file and scissors). As I worked the blades around the clips I positioned a couple iPhone openers to keep the case from re-closing. Operation done with not a single dent or scratch in the case, thank you so much! Why did I open it? Dead hard drive, replaced it with an iFlash Solo SD card adapter from Tarkan (just google it), now my iPod has solid state storage, hooray! :-) On your video and copyright: I first found what I believe is an unauthorized copy of your video, look for video 7Rfr2J1KwUE. Took me a while to find the original, but looking at the comments there I suspected it was a copy.
Thank You! I tried everything from guitar picks to credit cards and nothing worked better than a flat xacto knife blade. Hopefully I'll get another 5 years out of the new battery (unless Apple starts making a 120GB iPod touch).
I was to cheap to buy 3 X-Acto blades with handles. I used 3 razor blades purchased at my local hardware store at 1/10th the cost and worked just as well. Previously I used a thin paint scraper but it slightly bent the back but easily bent it back.
Well done. I like the utility knife approach. I will pickup a couple when I receive my iPod battery. Are you planing a "How to re-assemble a 6th, 7th generation ipod classic video" as you mentioned in this video?
John, Great video, thanks for sharing you knowledge. All the other vids I have watched don't do a very good job of explaining the opening process at all. I have just spent the last 1 1/2 hours trying to get my iPod open with no luck. Im about ready to throw it. HaHa!
Some can be tight as a drum and challenging. See my note above. There is a weak spot at the top and bottom that is easier to get the first blade into. Then inset a plastic tool and slide it around to the side to make a tiny gap.
I will post a very rare, opening technique for this device. He came close ..but I have been opening these devices since 2011. Wrong exacto blade, takes three tools, I have kept secret for some time..but now., i focus on solder repairs on this device so showing proper opening technique will not diminish my business and may bring more business. Oh man, finished, way wrong on the disconnect of battery cable. That is the reason I get so many battery connection repairs!
Nice and thorough walk through. Thanks lots! ... (My headphones broke inside the port, and the tip of the jack is at the very bottom of the port. Q: If I open the ipod, can I push that piece out of the earphones port or that's inaccessible?)
The front can be separated from the metal frame. First put a small piece of tape on the center button to keep it in place. Then remove the six screws, three one each side. then remove the front and clean. Use a micro fiber cloth. Wipe off the LCD also.
enjoyed the tutorial. Only question is where do you get the green tools, how do you know what part is needed for the difficulty one is having with their ipod and where do you buy them. Oh another question. I have a model no# A1137 Ipod. Is that a generational ipod or what? Its 4GB's. I called a repair man and he told me I was better off buying a new one. Yeah right. A hundred or something for them, nah. Are their people that accually would bother fixing mine, do you know? Thank-you. You did good
The only problem was trying to get my head around what the clips looked like and therefore what I was trying to do with the blade. A close up of the clips would be ideal. Great video anyway, thanks
If it's just the brown or black clamp that was damaged, you can buy the whole battery connector on ebay and carefully remove the clamp with a sewing pin, and carefully install it with the round side toward the bottom of board.
You may have a bit of corrosion or debris in the charger port. Using a regular toothbrush you can clean it. Just spray some 99% rubbing alcohol on the toothbrush and brush lightly across the USB port so the bristles reach deep into the port. Back and forth about 50 or 60 times. Let me know if it works. John
I gave up, couldnt get the front off, it still works though, but im now looking for a new one, because mine looks out of shape now, looks awful, all i wanted to do was change the front case.
Where can I now get a replacement front and back to fix this mess along with the battery? 80GB Classic Serial # ending in YMV. Finally got it open by holding sides open by sliding car fuses in all around it which bent the fuses but at least worked this time. I'd recommend plastic like credit card material. Thanks
I've opened up over 100 ipods using my method. It is the best way, but some ipods are super tight and difficult. But there is still no other methods. If you really messed up your front and back housing, then just go to ebay and buy a new set. They will likely be less than $20 and make your ipod look like new. Then cheer up! It's just an ipod after all.
Where did you get thoses knives from ?...the one I tried to use the blade kept braking and I still have not been able to open my iPod Classic in the past two months..I have the new battery and have not been able to install it...like you said the first time opening is difficult because i have not been able to get anything in between to even start opening...I think the proper type of tool is important
I like your precise way of opening the case, the other methods online make me cringe. I have a 160GB 6th gen, which uses the thick case. Does the opening process differ at all for the thick case?
Just took apart my ipod successfully with your method. My #10 xacto blades came with a thin coat of oil which seemed to make the blades slip in easily. I marked the clip locations on tape one the sides of the case, worked my way from the right to the top to the left. the bottom came up after that. One thing that got me, occasionally my blade got stuck between the two layers of metal, and needed to go behind both layers before turning the blade downward toward the clip. Thank you!
Yes, one of the most cringy things I have ever done. I still actually opened my ipod using this method. I tried using the plastic openers with no luck (which slightly bent the case around the data jack where you inert them), so I decided to use the xacto blades. My blades came with some oil on them, which seemed to help. My blade slipped once while I was getting the hang of it making one small scratch on the edge of the metal, but not really noticeable. I used some tape on the sides to protect the metal and to mark where the latches were, this seemed to be a good idea. I also used a leather glove on the hand opposite the blades just in case :). Here are some pictures of the process: imgur.com/a/w6tW8
Reminder: There is a tool available to replace most of the exacto blades:
www.amazon.com/Fixinus-Spudger-Opening-Stainless-Electronic/dp/B06XHG3G33/ref=sr_1_4?crid=1IV012AEA1XFT&keywords=ipod%2Btool&qid=1672009541&sprefix=ipod%2Btool%2Caps%2C139&sr=8-4&th=1
eBay item number:125482246283
@artman102 Do you still suggest using exacto knives or are the metal spudgers sufficient?
@@ajdunn83 You will need both. The tool only mentioned only help to keep the tabs from re-closing.
I already know this guide is WAY better than iFixit's guide.
In iFixit's guide, you have to use a big knife and you will have to bend the back to the proper spot. In this guide, you just use a tiny screwdriver and 3 exacto knifes and you don't have to bend the back to it's proper spot.
I am definitely going to use this guide to replace my iPod Classic's battery. Thank you!
Happy to help!!
9 years later you are still helping people out, my friend...thank you! I had none of the proper tools for this and slippy hands so I don't trust myself with knives, ha... I did use a knife first to loosen up the gaps but then ended up using the smallest flathead screwdriver I had to wiggle it open the rest of the way, and then used a few guitar picks to hold the clips open while I worked on the other sides. Bottom was the toughest part but I got it all open without damage, shockingly... now I can replace my broken hard drive with a nice new SSD! Thank you again friend!!!
How time flies when your having fun. I'm glad you got your ipod open. I found most success with the large FashionSprout SSD's on ebay. They are cheap and reliable. If you want more memory then Tarkan's iFlash works great. Have fun.
I have now switched over to iflash adapter only using the quad model. I buy the sd cards on Newegg as they have the best price and guarantee they are authentic. I don't use the Tarkan hard drive ribbon as I found them to be too thin and can cause sad face issues.
Thank you! I bought some plastic tools on eBay and they broke immediately! Using x-acto knives as you suggested and showing where to put them, I had my IPOD open and battery exchanged in about 15 minutes! No breaks, scratches, she's working again! Forever grateful!
Great to hear a success story!
THANK YOU. I managed beautifully with my 7th gen. thanks to this video (only i used flat blades): i opened the ipod, replaced the hard drive with an SD card and closed it again in just 30 minutes and with absolutely no damage to the case.
Wow! congratulations, I recommend the round blades.
I would just like to say a BIG thank you for your video. It was more than just helpful. I'm good with electronics but I had never opened an iPod before & your video was the BEST METHOD! The absolutely useless plastic tools you get with the replacement battery were hopeless. I tried to use them in combination with the knife blades & they didn't do anything. Big thanks once again for taking the time to do this video. Your the best.
Thanks for this tutorial, buddy!
The detailed explanation and the closeup camera really helps. In a month or so I’ll finally have all the new parts for my iPod and I’ll be opening it up. I’ll update this comment to let everyone know if your tips were successful!
this is the most detailed 6th generation front plate and back plate disassembly i have seen. i wish i had seen this earlier as i had already made a scratch on my ipod.
two thumbs up.
thank you for making the video.
Thanks for the video. It's much better than the procedure over at iFixit. I used a #18 flat chisel blade instead of the curved carving blade that you used. The advantage of it is that the bevel is on one side only. When inserting the blade, place the beveled side down (i.e. toward the back of the iPod). This makes it easy to get the blade in without its slipping or marring the edge of the front panel. Also note the once the side has been pried away slightly, it is possible to peek in with a flashlight and see exactly where the clips are; they are between the protrusions in the clip rail. The blade may need to be repositioned so that it is between the protrusions. As you mentioned, the blades are very sharp. I would also like to add that they are also brittle, so eye protection is a good idea.
SHUKRAN! that video was beyond helpful, I was about to ship it off to iPod and pay 62.00 to have the battery replaced! "I've already learned how to replace these types of batteries, I lacked the know-how in opening ipods! Again thanks a million!
Excellent!!
Followed your opening sequence, was easier to do than I expected. Changing the battery was more difficult, breathed a sigh of relief when it powered up. Thanks.
Excellent ! I am glad that the instructions were helpful. Enjoy the music.
Best video for opening up an iPod Classic on TH-cam hands down! Went and got myself xacto knives from my local hardware store and followed your instructions to the letter cause you had the easiest time opening up the darn thing. iPod open in under 15 minutes. THANK YOU!
naki.tilly Good Job!! and you're welcome. Glad I could could help.
Thank you for the great video! I just opened my 7th Generation Classic for the first time to replace the headphone jack. I decided to try a 5-piece metal Spudger Tool set and I was very pleased with the results. No damage to the case at all. If you're opening the bottom, make sure you're not inserting too close to the charging port. There's a small plastic bracket screwed into the back that it lines up to and a sharp tool can split the plastic. Again thank you, this video helped me a lot!
By far the best video that I could find on opening an iPod. Others put me off the idea but this gave me the confidence to revive an old classic by replacing the HD with SD cards and replacing the battery. Nothing broken, no injuries and half the price of taking it to a shop. Thanks.
I couldn’t get into mine, it’s one tight little iPod. Despite my failure, yours is still yours is the best instructional video on this that i watched. To the point, you’re not selling anything, and i can clearly see what you’re doing. Thanks for the video!
Dude i ended up almost breaking my lcd screen
This video is what everybody wants to know, well explained an using regular (not super -special) tools.
Thanks and have another thumb up.
Thank you so much!
Amazing disassembly video, very helpful. Been doing phone repair for 5 years now - have never met this iPod before. Author's explanations helped a lot.
Brilliant video! thanks heaps!!!!!!
Glad I could help!
@@artman102
Hi John's,
I have made a comment earlier, I am just watching this videos now.
The opening of the iPod, you made it so easy with the BLADES KNIVES.
PLEASE, HOW DO I ORDERED FOR 3 or 4 OF THOSE KNIVES? THE HOLDER WILL MAKE IT SO SAFE FOR AN OLD MAN.
THANKS.
If this video is yours i have to tell you that someone uploaded it to its channel without giving you credit. Your video helped me alot and its the only one in youtube that is perfectly correct.I have opened 2 ipod classic, first took me about 30 minutes, when a see the exact shape of the clips it took me 5 minutes to open the second one. Thanks to you my ipod has no sign of being opened.
Thank you for the heads up on that.
Thanks for the video !
I replaced the battery in my 7th Gen Ipod and it was exactly as described in the instructions. Although opening the case with an exacto knife took a little doing, I found marking the location of the clips with a black marker made it easier. *Thin* exacto blades are the way to go....Med blades are too thick to fit between the back and the case.
Double check the battery ribbon connection before putting the back on....give it a little tug so you know it's firmly in place.
No marks....no dents....no scratches....works great.
Congratulations!
By far the cleanest method I've seen.
Thank you. Clear explanation, step by step. It's also nice that you show what you do instead of only explaining it. I was able to open my iPod Classic 160GB thanks to this video. I ordered the opening toolset, but was unable to open it with that, the iPod was closed to tight as you explained. Knives worked great.
I would like to add something that worked for me, which was shoving a small screwdriver into the side first to loosen it up a bit. With the exception of that I did exactly this. Thanks
Your approach makes it easy and prevents damage to case. I used Husky feeler gauges from Home Depot. They come apart with a screw and have a bend at one end that made the job simple. Had mine apart in just a couple minutes. Thanks.
Just used this method on my own IPod so I could replace the battery and it worked perfectly. Thank you so much for this video!
You are very welcome!!
Good Evening all. I just performed this on a damaged IPOD that had never been opened. One thing I found instead of an exacto knife, is the old fashion Spark Plug gapping tool that looks like small metal blades. I took mine apart, and got the thinnest ones on it and used them all the way around the IPOD and it worked great with no potential nerve severing!!
I believe those are referred to as a feeler gauge.
I owe you for at least three times that I have had to open my classic. Crazy helpful.
Wow!! I used this technique with the "Professional Opening Pry Tool Repair Kit" from Amazon and it came right off. Really, no trouble and done in a few minutes. The only other bit I added was some duck tape on the cover to both protect against scratches and alsoI marked the areas as this video's creator suggested. Now, to try to replace the HD w/ a Tarkan iFlash-Solo SDXC Adapter.
THANK YOU ! man this is the only method that worked for me. actually used a utility knife but it has to be a fresh sharp blade. my 6th gen was much harder to open than the 7th gen for the record.
This tutorial is great! I was not able to make any progress using plastic tools but when I used my xacto knife along with a long thin box cutter/razor blade (keeping one in while I used the other for the next clip) I was able to unlock the clips easily using this video as a guide.
This method does work. I tried the plastic pry tools and they all broke. Also if the shape blades are a concern I read this is previous comments, file the blade just enough to dull the edge. Thanks John S.
Your welcome! I'm glad it helped you.
Great method! Great video for a very difficult task. It would have been impossible with all the other methods I checked out. Thanks a million!
You're welcome. I'm glad it worked.
Thank you for your tutorial video. Your efforts are MUCH APPRECIATED. I have read elsewhere the same as you stated, "the IPOD CLASSIC" is difficult to open and work with, but YOU DID GREAT!! Your video really helps.
Thanks. I appreciate that.
The Keith Emerson school of iPod repairs!
Thanks for the guide - very useful. Rather than exacto knife, I used the IFIXIT tools - the jimmy works to release the clips very well, while the 4 piece metal spudger/pry tools set does the rest. Used Tarkan's iFlash mSATA SSD adaptor plus new battery and back to new!! No damage or dents at all on either part of the case.
Brilliant! I have a 160gb I need to replace the battery. I just need more blades. Thanks for the video. 👍
Thank you so much. This very clear walk through helped my through my first 6th gen disassemble. Before I got to this vid I was ready to throw it at the wall, and I had already chipped off a lot of the paint on the side of the black faceplate, lol. Thanks again!
This video is amazing Way better than the IFIXIT method. I ruined my screen doing it their way.
Opening my Ipod because after almost a decade my ipod HDD died...
Thank you! I only had screw drivers, but knowing about the clips and their location really helped.
I would wrap both halves of the ipod with electrical tape right under the slots just to protect them from any slips of the knives that might scratch them.
I',m into model RC planes so I have lots of hobby knives available. I have dissected ipods before and it has been nasty separating the two halves of the case. This video makes it simple. Thanks!
Thank you!
This actually looks doable, thanks! Going to order a battery and replace my 7 year old one!
I just finished fixing mine thanks to this video. Cheers.
Best Video i have a 5th gen classic and the clips are in the same exact spot. unfortunately i just found this video and watched another on replacing the battery which did not mention the clips. i had some widening of the silver back when i put it back together. I used the rubber ends of a pair of needle nose pliers and a hammer to sort of bang it back in shape does not look the same but i have a case oh well i will refer this vid next time i open and try and purchase the shiny back somehow and replace the warped one.
To answer a previous question. Yes, you can convert an ipod video to a SSD memory. Up to 1TB. I have used mostly Kingspec or Fashionsprout ZIF SSD.
Update: 5-18-2019, I have recently upgraded an ipod classic 7.5gen 160gb to a 1 TB, using an Msata memory and a Tarkan adapter. I used a standard battery so I could charge it using a standard USB cable. Larger batteries are tempting, but the ipod charging ic's are very weak and can easily blow a trace if over worked. Note: Msata can cause issues if they are 3D or specifically meant for a laptop. It appears that the cheaper modules work best. I get mine from Newegg.com. Classic ipods are generally limited to about 50,000 titles but using Rockbox firmware, you can get around this limit.
Update: I just built a 1TB ipod using the large 3000 Mah battery and it works great. I have charged it and it seems to charge fine with no issues.
The advantage of the larger battery is that the ipod can sit for a year and still be nearly full. Plus it plays for over 120 hours of music.
www.ebay.com/itm/1-8-ZIF-256gb-ssd-Replace-MK1634GAL-160gb-for-ipod-7th-classic-Disk-Drive-HDD-/121818113587?hash=item1c5cece633:g:DQkAAOSwJcZWeO2m
www.ebay.com/itm/KingSpec-1-8-ZIF-SSD-128GB-for-DELL-D420-D430-Inspiron-Mini-12-LATITUDE-XT-/371381191684?hash=item56780b4404:g:NlUAAOSwq7JTzcZe
Remember that only the ipod classic 7.5 gen and some 5th gen ipods can utilize drives larger than 128gb.
7.5 classic is 160gb thin version Model MC297LL
I used scalples to do mine. Worked like a treat on a current gen ipod classic.
You're welcome, I'm glad you found this method helpful.
Awesome video thanks mate, one of the best on YT for sure, very informative, and no extraneous bs. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks. i struggled a bit to get it going, but open it did, aand i didn't destroy the cover's clips like last time, all my fingers and nerves are still attached. Cheers.
I appreciate you taking the time to make this video
Great tutorial. Now my son can listen to my tunes!
@artman102 This is by far the best method to open the ipod classic without damaging it. Thank you very much for sharing this! It worked like a charm!
Excellent!!
Great Video helped me open my friends first then mine thank you
Hi Carol: The reason he did not want to work on your ipod nano 1st gen is that he would have to charge more than the ipod is worth. You did not state the issue you are having, likely the battery is bad, or worse, moisture damage. To open that model I use the green tools and bend the side metal tabs as I open it. Just bend them back before closing it up. You will usually get a set of tools when you buy a battery from a good seller on ebay. thanks, John
Thanks for the upload, followed your video and got my new battery in with a minimal of fuss. Thanks mate
Thank you for this video. Other methods were failing me badly, but I have my new battery in and charging. Thanks so much!
Your video is very helpful, I want to open my ipod to change the battery so i try to find the best way to do it
Hey John, excelent video and tutorial..Thanks a lot..Greetings from Caracas - Venezuela
Hello John, you can chalk-up one more successfully repaired iPod classic thanks in no small part to your very didactic video. Minor adjustment, as I did not have x-acto knives, I used a pair of mini swiss army pocket knives (the smallest type, one blade, one file and scissors). As I worked the blades around the clips I positioned a couple iPhone openers to keep the case from re-closing. Operation done with not a single dent or scratch in the case, thank you so much!
Why did I open it? Dead hard drive, replaced it with an iFlash Solo SD card adapter from Tarkan (just google it), now my iPod has solid state storage, hooray! :-)
On your video and copyright: I first found what I believe is an unauthorized copy of your video, look for video 7Rfr2J1KwUE. Took me a while to find the original, but looking at the comments there I suspected it was a copy.
Thanks for the heads up.
Thanks great tutorial, saved me from wasting money an those apple tool kit. Glad i always have Xacto knives around
Thank you! Beautifully presented, easy to follow.
Thanks, I appreciate that.
Awesome video, I probably would have spent hours trying to figure this out, it helped a lot. thanks!
Thank You! I tried everything from guitar picks to credit cards and nothing worked better than a flat xacto knife blade. Hopefully I'll get another 5 years out of the new battery (unless Apple starts making a 120GB iPod touch).
I was to cheap to buy 3 X-Acto blades with handles. I used 3 razor blades purchased at my local hardware store at 1/10th the cost and worked just as well. Previously I used a thin paint scraper but it slightly bent the back but easily bent it back.
Very effective instructions! Thank you, John S
You're welcome!!
I loved this tutorial! Thanks ☺️
Thank you, I appreciate that.
when I finally got into mine, I bent some of the clips in on the top and bottom so it is easier next time.
OMG you jus saved me some work! thanks for the detailed info!
Thank you! I got a friend's open injury free and replaced the battery!
Hi,
Very informative, thank you very much ! 😆
I have a 6th generation as well - should replace the battery, add the adapter for the SD card,... 😊
Excellent tutorial, worked like a charm. Thanks!!
Only bought it last week, it came with a chipped grey front panel, so i bought a black one to change it, wish i had left it alone now.
I hope you got it opened up, sometimes the botom clips need to be manually released. thanks
Well done. I like the utility knife approach. I will pickup a couple when I receive my iPod battery.
Are you planing a "How to re-assemble a 6th, 7th generation ipod classic video" as you mentioned in this video?
You can find that re-assembly video in my collection. thanks, John
Thank you, I have used it as a reference, and helped me a lot! thank you!
Thank you, I appreciate that.
Thank You, and greetings from Portland, Oregon USA!
John, Great video, thanks for sharing you knowledge. All the other vids I have watched don't do a very good job of explaining the opening process at all. I have just spent the last 1 1/2 hours trying to get my iPod open with no luck. Im about ready to throw it. HaHa!
Some can be tight as a drum and challenging. See my note above. There is a weak spot at the top and bottom that is easier to get the first blade into. Then inset a plastic tool and slide it around to the side to make a tiny gap.
I will post a very rare, opening technique for this device. He came close ..but I have been opening these devices since 2011. Wrong exacto blade, takes three tools, I have kept secret for some time..but now., i focus on solder repairs on this device so showing proper opening technique will not diminish my business and may bring more business.
Oh man, finished, way wrong on the disconnect of battery cable. That is the reason I get so many battery connection repairs!
I did not find your video. Let me know when you get it posted. Thanks, John
Great help. but I couldn't find John S's other video on closing and formatting. Any help?
just stripped my 120 gb using fine guitar picks, get about 8, easy peasey. no blood, no danger of harm with a scalpel
done in 2 minuites
Nice and thorough walk through. Thanks lots!
...
(My headphones broke inside the port, and the tip of the jack is at the very bottom of the port.
Q: If I open the ipod, can I push that piece out of the earphones port or that's inaccessible?)
Excellent video thank you John. I wanted to clean the lens as it has lot of dust. Anyway I can do that?
The front can be separated from the metal frame. First put a small piece of tape on the center button to keep it in place. Then remove the six screws, three one each side. then remove the front and clean. Use a micro fiber cloth. Wipe off the LCD also.
enjoyed the tutorial. Only question is where do you get the green tools, how do you know what part is needed for the difficulty one is having with their ipod and where do you buy them. Oh another question. I have a model no# A1137 Ipod. Is that a generational ipod or what? Its 4GB's. I called a repair man and he told me I was better off buying a new one. Yeah right. A hundred or something for them, nah. Are their people that accually would bother fixing mine, do you know? Thank-you. You did good
thank you for the info on how to open ipod.
is it possible to show how to replace the light on ipod, cos my ipod light is dead.
thanx
The only problem was trying to get my head around what the clips looked like and therefore what I was trying to do with the blade. A close up of the clips would be ideal. Great video anyway, thanks
I just Splice My Finger but hey my Ipod is finally Opened !! thank You.
thanks for the video, please the battery clamp got damage when pulling the ribbon out. how can i fix the clamp back ?
If it's just the brown or black clamp that was damaged, you can buy the whole battery connector on ebay and carefully remove the clamp with a sewing pin, and carefully install it with the round side toward the bottom of board.
Great video. Very helpfull because I have a mecer open 6th gen whit HD issues!! Thanxs
Thank you, I appreciate that.
Thanks, very helpful. A box cutter worked for me instead of exacto knives, which I didn't have.
+Mark G (markgiamusic) NO, No, No. I don't want anyone to use a pointed blade. It can shatter or scratch or stab.
You may have a bit of corrosion or debris in the charger port. Using a regular toothbrush you can clean it. Just spray some 99% rubbing alcohol on the toothbrush and brush lightly across the USB port so the bristles reach deep into the port. Back and forth about 50 or 60 times. Let me know if it works. John
dude you rock best method ever!
I gave up, couldnt get the front off, it still works though, but im now looking for a new one, because mine looks out of shape now, looks awful, all i wanted to do was change the front case.
Sorry you were not able to get your ipod opened. See my repair service above.
Where can I now get a replacement front and back to fix this mess along with the battery? 80GB Classic Serial # ending in YMV. Finally got it open by holding sides open by sliding car fuses in all around it which bent the fuses but at least worked this time. I'd recommend plastic like credit card material. Thanks
I've opened up over 100 ipods using my method. It is the best way, but some ipods are super tight and difficult. But there is still no other methods. If you really messed up your front and back housing, then just go to ebay and buy a new set. They will likely be less than $20 and make your ipod look like new. Then cheer up! It's just an ipod after all.
This worked perfectly for me. $10 for battery on ebay and good as new.
Where did you get thoses knives from ?...the one I tried to use the blade kept braking and I still have not been able to open my iPod Classic in the past two months..I have the new battery and have not been able to install it...like you said the first time opening is difficult because i have not been able to get anything in between to even start opening...I think the proper type of tool is important
Hi There
Great video where did you get the knife from With the curved blade as I’ve looked on Amazon and most have pointy blades thank you
www.amazon.com/Excel-Blades-Curved-American-Replacement/dp/B0006NAUBA/ref=sr_1_17_mod_primary_new?crid=2QIFTRGCFC0HL&keywords=exacto%2Bblades%2Bround&qid=1672010998&sbo=RZvfv%2F%2FHxDF%2BO5021pAnSA%3D%3D&sprefix=exacto%2Bblades%2Bround%2Caps%2C136&sr=8-17&th=1
excellent, is there a substitute for the plastic green ipod battery removal tool? in a pinch - do i have an alternative?
This seems like the best option.
excellent---where do I get a replacement battery for the classic??
Ok thanks
are u gonna do one for the 7th generation ipod
I like your precise way of opening the case, the other methods online make me cringe. I have a 160GB 6th gen, which uses the thick case. Does the opening process differ at all for the thick case?
It is the same method for the thick housing.
Just took apart my ipod successfully with your method. My #10 xacto blades came with a thin coat of oil which seemed to make the blades slip in easily. I marked the clip locations on tape one the sides of the case, worked my way from the right to the top to the left. the bottom came up after that. One thing that got me, occasionally my blade got stuck between the two layers of metal, and needed to go behind both layers before turning the blade downward toward the clip. Thank you!
this one is still kind of cringy since hes putting metal on metal most likely scratching it
Yes, one of the most cringy things I have ever done. I still actually opened my ipod using this method. I tried using the plastic openers with no luck (which slightly bent the case around the data jack where you inert them), so I decided to use the xacto blades. My blades came with some oil on them, which seemed to help. My blade slipped once while I was getting the hang of it making one small scratch on the edge of the metal, but not really noticeable. I used some tape on the sides to protect the metal and to mark where the latches were, this seemed to be a good idea. I also used a leather glove on the hand opposite the blades just in case :). Here are some pictures of the process: imgur.com/a/w6tW8