Xbox 360 DIY cut a drive window, update for 360 install

IRON MAN color themed Xbox 360 elite gets DVD drive window

The custom install 360 for our project gets a new drive window and this is how we did it. As you know this 360 will be powdercoated Kandy red including the drive case, so the window had to be perfected now before the final color is applied. Thanks for reading! ( Though this is a DIY article, I am not resposible for voicing any warranty or breaking somthing)

This is the Xbox 360 with the clam shell case removed. It is pretty simple and I did it with a T6 screw driver and finger nail clippers. Above you see the 360 in the frame that will be used to make a fiberglass ( or carbon fiber) enclosure around it. We are wanting carbon but doesn't everyone?! :)

Be careful removing the DVD drive becuase these days electronics can break easy. Only the four screws on the four edge tabs should be removed. There are two plugs, removed both and leave them attached to the motherboard.


Here is the picture right after the cover was removed. Take in ming the cd in in upside down, I just did that for the pictures. Cover the disc drive to prevent dust gettin in, and DO NOT cut the cover even in the same room with the drive internals! The dust is conductive and wil cause a short.



Use the cd and measure to find the middle of the circle in on the cover. I drew a cross hatch. Use the cross hatch to line up the cd. Then use a fine tipped perminant marker to draw the circle. The circle must be perminant and resiliant to washing.


Here is the fine tracing of the CD. Notice I stopped at the groove that is already in the case. I used this as a reference point to make sure the circle was even on both sides. Remember that if you use a regular sharpie it will be more difficult to cut the window in a perfect circle.


I used a cutting wheel to made the rough cut within 1/4 inch from the line. You can not risk being closer because cutting wheels vibrate and jump sometimes. It is not worth buying another drive if there is a mistake.

Test fit after rough cut with disc cutter.

Top view od rough cut. Now I will pull out a grinding stone to finish the edges all the way to the fine line e made earlier. Go slow, this part takes an hour by itself.


After the deburring I sanded edges with 120 grit sand paper wet. I removed the sticker and put it away for safe keeping in case I ever need a model number. Yes the cd is in backwards, its just for looks for the picture. Now this drive is ready for candy red color! Also I will light the drive up with EL wire from the inside. It should be impressive! Thanks for reading.