Use this guide when a joystick on an X-Arcade Tankstick Max or Tankstick with Trackball does not respond as expected, feels loose or stiff, or you want to inspect the controller for routine service.

Useful links:

Start with the connection and mode

Before opening the controller, test the joystick in the simplest setup:

  1. Connect the controller directly to a Windows PC using the main X-Arcade controller cable.
  2. Avoid USB hubs, extension cables, and console adapters during the first test.
  3. Set the controller to Mode 1 / Keyboard Mode.
  4. Open the online keyboard tester at https://en.key-test.ru/.
  5. Move each joystick in all four directions.
  6. Press the buttons and confirm the tester shows key presses.

If the joystick works in the online keyboard tester but not in a game or emulator, the controller is probably working and the game input mapping should be checked next.

Remember that the trackball is separate

On Tankstick models with a trackball, the trackball uses separate mouse-style electronics from the joystick and button controls.

This means the trackball can work even if the joystick/button side is in the wrong mode, connected with the wrong cable, or not mapped correctly in the game.

Check for simple causes

  1. Make sure the joystick shaft can move freely in all directions.
  2. Check that the joystick handle is not loose.
  3. Make sure nothing is pressing against the joystick from inside a cabinet or mounting surface.
  4. Test a different USB port on the PC.
  5. Restart the PC or console after changing adapters or controller settings.

For emulator setups, also check the input settings inside the emulator. MAME, Batocera, RetroPie, and other frontends can have their own control mappings.

Internal service checks

Only open the controller if you are comfortable performing basic self-service.

  1. Unplug the controller from all power and USB connections.
  2. Open the controller from the bottom.
  3. Take a clear photo of the joystick wiring before moving anything.
  4. Check that each quick-disconnect terminal is firmly seated on its microswitch.
  5. Check that the microswitches are seated correctly and click when the joystick moves into each direction.
  6. Look for a loose wire, disconnected terminal, blocked actuator, or debris near the joystick.
  7. Reseat any loose quick-disconnect terminal by pushing it straight back onto the same microswitch tab.
  8. Close the controller and repeat the Mode 1 online keyboard test.

Do not move wires between switches unless support asks you to do so. A photo before service makes it much easier to restore the original wiring.

When joystick replacement makes sense

Joystick replacement is normally only needed when:

  • The joystick assembly is physically damaged.
  • A microswitch or actuator no longer works correctly after the wiring and mode checks above.
  • The joystick is worn and you want to service the controller yourself.
  • Support has reviewed your test results and recommends replacement.

Use X-Arcade-compatible replacement parts. If you are not sure which part fits your controller model, contact support before ordering.

Basic replacement overview

  1. Unplug the controller.
  2. Open the controller from the bottom.
  3. Take photos of the joystick wiring and mounting orientation.
  4. Remove the quick-disconnect terminals from the joystick microswitches.
  5. Remove the joystick mounting screws.
  6. Install the compatible replacement joystick in the same orientation.
  7. Reconnect each wire to the matching microswitch terminal.
  8. Test every direction in Mode 1 before closing the case.

Standard X-Arcade joystick service normally uses quick-disconnect terminals. If your controller wiring looks different from the steps above, stop and contact support before continuing.

If the joystick still does not work after these steps

Please contact support and include:

  • Your X-Arcade controller model.
  • The cable or adapter chain being used.
  • The mode switch position.
  • Whether the joystick responds at https://en.key-test.ru/.
  • Whether the issue happens on PC, console, emulator, or all setups.
  • A short video showing the joystick test.
  • A clear photo of the joystick wiring inside the controller, if you opened it.