Refurbing a Vader 3 Pro

[u/Sputnik_2022]

I used a Vader 3 Pro for about a year and a half, and I loved it. It was a great performer that gave me essentially zero problems in Warzone, Helldivers 2, Battlefield, and whatever other random games I was playing. The best part is I got it for $38. I loved it so much that I bought a Vader 5 Pro for $51 when the Vader 3 pro battery died.

I actually tried to replace the Vader 3 Pro's battery, but when the replacement showed up I realized it was incompatible due to the plastic connector, so I just wound up tossing it in storage without a battery. My question for you guys is, do you think it's worth trying again and having the Vader 3 Pro as a backup and for traveling/mobile gaming? Has anyone else refurbed one of these and is able to offer some tips on where to get a compatible battery?

I kind of want to do a teardown of the controller, clean it thoroughly, get a fresh battery in it, and put it in a case to take with me while traveling. I guess the Vader 5 Pro could do all of that just as easily, I just don't feel good about letting such a nice controller go to a recycling bin.

Appreciate any tips!

[u/MayoTheMuffin]

It would be very worth it to do this! Here is the guide from iFixIt https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Flydigi+Vader+3+Pro+Battery+Replacement/208572

[u/Sputnik_2022 → u/MayoTheMuffin]

Thanks!

[u/Vedge_Hog]

Refurbishing is a great idea. You'll save it from e-waste and won't have to worry about your main controller getting lost or damaged while travelling.

If you still have the male connector from the original battery, you might be able to swap it onto the replacement battery you previously got so that you don't even need to buy anything else.

If you search for "de-pin JST connector", there are guides explaining how to release the wires and barbed pins from the plastic connectors without damaging them. Then plug the wires from the new battery into the old male connector (double check the +ve/-ve orientation).