A 32x is on it's way but...

[1magus]

I see in the picture it does not contain the SPACER for the Genesis model 2 however it does have the Electromagnetic Shield Plates, what happens if I "install" the 32x in my Genesis model 2 without a spacer? Will it damage it?

[Zebbe]

Yes. You don't need the "electromagnetic" shield plates though. Trade them for a spacer.

[1magus]

Where?! I looked up SPACER in eBay with 32x and have yet to find one :(

[playgen]

The spacer just makes the 32x sit better on the model2, it will be a bit more wobbly without it. But it won't damage the console, its like having a game genie or something with another cart sticking in it, you have to be a bit more careful not to knock the system while playing or it'll crash.

[1magus]

The spacer just makes the 32x sit better on the model2, it will be a bit more wobbly withhout it. But it won't damage the console, its like having a game genie or something with another cart sticking in it, you have to be a bit more careful not to knock the system while playing or it'll crash.

Oh well I just bought another 32x that comes with a Spacer it was really cheap so whatever.

[Zebbe]

Crap, the manual reads it will damage the system if you have another Mega Drive model AND the spacer. Sorry!

[evildragon]

The extra weight without the spacer can in the long run damage the Genesis cartridge connector, and will require TLC and possibly reflow of solder.

[lilmul123]

I've used my 32X without a spacer since I got it about a year ago and it works fine. The connector isn't any more damaged than it was before I put the 32x on it.

[MN12BIRD]

I also used a 32X on a model 2 without a spacer for awhile I was just extra careful not to put any force on the 32X other than straight down to put in a game. I eventually found a spacer so I use it now of course!

[The Sports Guy]

I both feel and assume (you know what you get when you assume) that the spacer really stabilizes the connection between the 32X and the Sega, so its like driving a car when you need to fix your brakes. You get that metal on metal sound and its rough. It probably doesnt evenly distribute the weight of the 32X then either.

[MN12BIRD]

Well I don't know how similar it is to driving a car with bad brakes... but your right. It simply holds the 32X in the proper position. If you where to go up to the 32X without the spacer and hit the front of it hard enough it could bend back enough to break the pcb connected inside the Genny. If its temporary and you're careful not to put any force on the 32X it should be fine.

[17daysolderthannes]

you could always just be ghetto and cut a sponge or something and wedge it in the front and back for extra support. It may actually work better because you'll get the benefit of extra ventilation, just make sure to not block the vents on the unit itself.

[17daysolderthannes]

If you where to go up to the 32X without the spacer and hit the front of it hard enough it could bend back enough to break the pcb connected inside the Genny.

I think you'd make the 32X come out of the unit before it would break the PCB. I bet the first thing to go would be the PCB in the 32X that connects to the Genesis.

[KnightWarrior]

I don't have a spacer for mine