Reactors can feel like ticking time bombs, right? But they don’t have to. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you handle any reactor job confidently and efficiently.
Table of Contents
Before You Accept a Reactor Job
- Always grab a pump before starting. If the cooler needs fixing, you’ll likely need it.
- Skim through your manual. Familiarity saves time under pressure.
Starting the Reactor Job
- Check your task list and head to the reactor module (usually top-right of the ship).
- Lower the pit to access it, or skip ahead if you know what needs fixing.
- Open the reactor module by pressing the green button.
Understand the Reactor Screen
You’ll see three lines:
- Fuel (A): Powers the reactor.
- Coolant (B): Keeps it from overheating.
- Reactant (C): The chemical mix for stability.
Take note of low levels—those are your priorities.
What to Fix First?
Low Coolant
If coolant is empty and the slider is up, leave the module and fix the cooler first. Use a pump to create ice balls, drop them in the tube, and return to adjust coolant levels.
Low Fuel
If fuel is depleted, turn off the fuel switch (flip it UP), replace fuel cells, and turn it back on after swapping them in. Ensure coolant levels are stable before proceeding.
If both are issues or you’re unsure, pull out the reactor core, it buys you unlimited time.
How to Safely Remove a Reactor Core
- Turn off fuel (flip UP) and coolant (pull DOWN).
- Undo bolts: start with two lower ones; the third will open it fully.
- Detach three clips holding the core in place.
- Remove the core and store it safely in your inventory.
Pro tip: If the core has a green triangle in its center, it needs replacing.
Reinstalling the Reactor Core
Once you’ve fixed coolant and refueled:
- Place the core back inside. Remember—time starts ticking again!
- Lock it using all three clips.
- Tighten bolts, starting with the top one first.
- Turn fuel back on (flip DOWN).
- Pull coolant slider UP to restart flow.
If everything’s correct, stability will improve, and beeping will slow down.
Final Check
If something feels off or stability declines, pull out the core again to troubleshoot safely.