Metal framework
for the iPod Classic 6th Gen A1238
- 1-year limited warranty
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For the iPod Classic 6th GenModel A1238
Doing it yourself?
iPod Classic 6th/7th Gen front panel and metal frame replacement guide ›iPod Classic 6G — Replacement Metal Framework
For the iPod Classic 6th Gen
Used (Apple Original) · Model A1238
$15.95
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Not for sale right now
We are not selling this part at the moment.
- Used (Apple Original). Tested: installed in a working iPod and checked before it ships.
- 1-year limited warranty · 30-day returns from delivery
- Free pry tool in the box
- Completed repairs aren't refundable. If a part we fitted fails within a year, we repair it again.
Questions about this part? Chat with us or email sales@imods.com.
Not sure what's wrong? Get your free repair quotePart details
About this part
Overview
Internal structural midframe/chassis supporting the screen, board, and click wheel — not an exterior shell; no color/finish role.
Fitment snapshot
What Is Included
Included
Fit and specs
Specifications & Fitment
Part Details
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Model Number | A1238 |
| EMC | EMC 2173 |
| Condition | Used — factory original Apple part. Normal cosmetic wear expected. |
Compatible Variants
| Order Number | Capacity | Color | Case | Compatible | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MB147LL/A | 80GB | Black | thin (0.41 in) | Yes | — |
| MB029LL/A | 80GB | Silver | thin (0.41 in) | Yes | — |
| MB565LL/A | 120GB | Black | thin (0.41 in) | Yes | — |
| MB562LL/A | 120GB | Silver | thin (0.41 in) | Yes | — |
| MB150LL/A | 160GB | Black | thick (0.53 in) | Yes | — |
| MB145LL/A | 160GB | Silver | thick (0.53 in) | Yes | — |
| MC297LL/A | 160GB (Late 2009) | Black | thin | Yes— fits | Fits the Late-2009 thin 160GB (MC293LL/A / MC297LL/A); that model is sold under the iPod Classic 7th Generation (Late 2009) pages. |
| MC293LL/A | 160GB (Late 2009) | Silver | thin | Yes— fits | Fits the Late-2009 thin 160GB (MC293LL/A / MC297LL/A); that model is sold under the iPod Classic 7th Generation (Late 2009) pages. |
Install and repair
Step-by-step guide
iPod Classic 6th/7th Gen front panel and metal frame replacement
Tools: Plastic opening picks (two or three), Thin metal opening tool, Phillips #00 screwdriver, Plastic spudger and tweezers, Air blower, Anti-static wrist strap or mat, Soft, clean cloth, Charger and headphones you know work
- Open the caseUnplug any cable. Switch the iPod off (hold Play/Pause until the screen goes dark) and slide Hold to locked. Open it as our opening guide shows: plastic picks keep the seam open along one long side while the tip of a thin metal tool pushes each clip in toward the front panel, rocking on the steel back's rim. Free both long sides, then the one clip in the middle of the top edge, between the Hold switch and the headphone jack. Leave the bottom edge clipped: it is the hinge.
- Unplug the battery firstPart the top ends a little, no further: the battery ribbon and the headphone ribbon still join the two halves. Now and then the drive comes away stuck to the back half, or the battery plug pops out as the case opens, so check for both, and ease a stuck drive back down into the front half.
Install Overview
Rather not open it? Choose We Fix It above: mail your iPod in and we fit it. Turnaround is typically 1–3 business days on our bench. 1-year limited warranty.
Very difficult opening
The iPod Classic metal case uses tight clips. Work slowly so the faceplate, rear shell, and ribbons are not bent or torn.
Full internal stack transfer
The display, logic board, click wheel, hard drive or adapter, bumpers, and screws must be transferred or reinstalled around the replacement frame.
No soldering required
The framework is a passive structural part; there is nothing to solder.
Protect ribbon routing
Confirm the click-wheel, display, battery, and headphone/hold ribbons are not pinched under the frame before tightening screws.
Dry-fit before closure
Confirm screw points, frame depth, and nearby hardware alignment before snapping the front and rear shells together.
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the same as the iPod Classic midframe?
Yes. This part is also called the metal framework, internal metal frame, midframe, chassis, or metal stiffening frame.
Is the framework the same for thin and thick?
Yes. The framework fits across the A1238 Classic family — thin, thick, and Late 2009 units.
Will replacing the framework fix electronics problems?
No. The framework is a structural part. It does not repair charging, sync, audio, storage, display, or control faults.
What is included?
Replacement Metal Framework and the free plastic pry opening tool. Screws, rubber HDD bumpers, display, logic board, click wheel, faceplate, and backplate are not included.
Free diagnostic
Broken iPod? We can help.
Mail us your iPod and we will test it and send you a free repair quote. If you don't like our price, we will ship your iPod back at our expense.
How mail-in repair works
Order the free diagnostic
Choose your iPod. Add our shipping box and prepaid label if you need one.
Mail us your iPod
Pack it with your work order. No printer? Put a note in the box with your name, return address, email, order number and what is wrong.
Approve your quote
We test it and email your free repair quote. Most repairs are finished within 1 to 3 business days after you approve the quote.