Editing Atari 65XE Capacitor Replacement Guide (section)

== Visual Inspection & Failure Signs ==

Before starting, carefully examine all electrolytic capacitors on the mainboard for:

* '''Bulging or domed tops''' – Indicates internal gas pressure and imminent failure.
* '''Leaking electrolyte''' – Brown, green, or white crust around the base or legs.
* '''Corroded or stained PCB areas''' – Suggests past leakage, especially near the power input.
* '''Random resets, video glitches, or audio hum''' – Often traceable to dried-out or high-ESR capacitors.

If any capacitor shows signs of failure, it is strongly recommended to replace '''all''' electrolytic capacitors on the board.