Commodore 64 triage takes center stage as YARC returns with a haul of classic computers from his recent road trip. The video wastes no time and jumps into the detailed inspection of three rescued C64s. Each system receives a close examination, uncovering a few surprises and plenty of retro dust along the way.
First Steps: The Tools and Setup
The adventure starts with a quick summary of what arrived. YARC now has nine Commodore 64s, four VIC-20s, and three 1702 monitors ready for inspection. To begin, he tests his capture and bench setup to make sure every tool is working. With everything in order, the first breadbin C64 is up. He describes the external condition, noting the yellowing, missing feet, case marks, and old tape residue. Every blemish tells a story from the machine’s history.
Machine One: Early Findings
Once inside the first Commodore 64, the triage reveals a USA-made 425 board. Several standoffs are cracked, and the character ROM has been replaced. Voltage checks expose trouble in both the power and clock circuits. The 8701 chip quickly becomes a suspect. The machine will need more work before it powers up correctly.
Machine Two: New Clues Emerge
The second C64 in line comes from Canada. This one has even more quirks, including cobwebs and an unusual LED connector. Although the voltage readings look good, the machine still gives only a black screen. Diagnostic cartridges point to a possible multiplexer issue. One faulty chip could be dragging the voltage rail down, but the hunt for the cause continues.
Machine Three: More Surprises
The third Commodore 64 is cleaner, but the power readings fall short. Several standoffs are also cracked. After blowing a fuse during testing, YARC swaps in a replacement and gets back to work. The fuse fix restores power, yet the voltage remains low. A few key chips are not socketed, which means more probing is needed to find the problem.
What’s Next for Commodore 64 Triage
This Commodore 64 triage only marks the beginning. YARC still has six more C64s and four VIC-20s left to test. If you enjoy restoration, troubleshooting, or the thrill of rescuing old tech, this episode offers a real treat. Watch the video for every discovery and follow along as more classic machines get a second chance at life.
