Sticky Trackball
 

Hi - I've had a Tour 9630 for over a year (i.e. my phone is no longer under warrenty). I am not elligible for an upgrade until November.

THE PROBLEM: The trackball has almost stopped working at all. With much prodding, I can get it to move. It's getting so that the phone is no longer functional because the trackball is not working. It seems to be worst of all when I try to scroll RIGHT, but the other directions are bad too. My carrier, Verizon Wireless, will do nothing for me (they suggest buying a new phone at full retail! and will not even try to repair my current phone).

QUESTIONS: Is there a way to fix this problem? I noticed in another thread that someone took apart their TOUR 9630 and cleaned it and replaced their trackball. How would I go about doing that? and where would I get a new trackball (remember, Verizon store where I live is USELESS)? Thanks in advance for any advice/assistance!

There are several youtube tutorial videos on how to replace/clean 9630 trackballs.

YouTube - Paper Strip Method for Cleaning BlackBerry Tour 9630 Trackball, Make it Good as New!

I can vouch for this method. I do this at least once a month on my Tour. Just be careful that you don't rip the paper under the ball, or you will have to take it apart to get it out. Trust me. :)

I use a no lint cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol or one of the pre-moistened alcohol towelettes with the excess liquid squeezed out of it, I apply a little pressure and roll the ball in every direction and that keeps it in good running order.