Fat Ps2 Scratching discs?

Question

PlayStation 2

Known as the ''PS2'', it is a sixth-generation video game console first released by Sony in Japan in March 2000. The United States saw it later in 2000 with the SCPH-30000. Repair of this device requires only common tools, but can get tricky.

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Tom19 @tom1936477

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crwdns2955602:0crwdne2955602:0: Nhl 28, 2025

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Fat Ps2 Scratching discs?

Typically when discussing Ps2's that scratch discs, the slim is the first thing that comes to mind. I have however recently purchased an SCPH 50001/N model and noticed that mine is scratching discs a bit differently. After having searched many forums, I can not find so much information.

Here's the issue:

I have purchased games recently that were very clean (SCIII and SOE) and decided to pop them into the PS2. What I've noticed is that after 30 mins or so I receive a pattern of hair like circular scratches around the disc. Now keep in mind, these are not circles that ring around the whole disc, rather its a pattern of multiple circles around the disc. What could be causing this? If you need pictures I am able to upload but any help would be appreciated as I can't find anything.

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score 1 · Answer 1 · 2025-10-29T06:19:01-07:00

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koppie007 @dan0

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crwdns2955602:0crwdne2955602:0: Nhl 29, 2025

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Hi!

Could be multiple things.

1: The laser is replaced and not correctly installed (in height).

2: The top case has been replaced with another one, but is the incorrect type/version.

3: Disc drive isn't alligned properly (less likely).

4: Something is stuck inside the disc drive causing scratches.

Did you recently repaired the PS2? Or did the previous owner?

Replacing the disc drive is a option, replacing the top case is difficult as there are many versions out there.

If you can share some pictures, that would be great!

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Hi there! Thank you for engaging with my post. I have just posted the pictures now. Let me know if you have any questions.

crwdns2934271:0Nhl 29, 2025crwdnd2934271:0 Tom19 crwdne2934271:0

Hi!

Yes, I would replace the top cover of the disk drive. There are 2 main versions out there.

1: Top loader with 2 clips and 2 screws.

2: Top loader with 4 screws without clips.

You need the 1st one. The one with 2 clips and 2 screws. I would replace that one and see how that goes. If the same issue occurs, I would replace the laser and check afterwards.

Still facing issues? Then you most likely want to replace the whole drive.

Please let us know how it goes!

crwdns2934271:0Nhl 30, 2025crwdnd2934271:0 koppie007 crwdne2934271:0

@dan0 Thank You. Just out of curiosity, do you see any issues with the top loader itself which causes you to suggest that?

crwdns2934271:0Nhl 30, 2025crwdnd2934271:0 Tom19 crwdne2934271:0

My pleasure! No I don't. It's hard to see with the eye. I know from experience that the top loader is usually the culprit..

crwdns2934271:0Nhl 31, 2025crwdnd2934271:0 koppie007 crwdne2934271:0

@dan0 Ok! I really appreciate your help!

crwdns2934271:0Huk 1, 2025crwdnd2934271:0 Tom19 crwdne2934271:0

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PlayStation 2

Fat Ps2 Scratching discs?

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