loose power port...

[rickg17]

OK, my 16month old T42 has a loose power port (where the power cord plugs in) that seems to be intermittent. I've tried both adapters, and both show the same thing - sometimes the power gets through, sometimes not.

Of course at 16 months, the machine is out of warranty. I'll call Lenovo and try to get this fixed free (this should NOT happen to a T42 that's been treated well as mine has) but failing free service, is this something that one can fix at home? Or is this touchy enough that it should be professionally services

[EOMtp]

The item can be fixed (i.e., replaced) very easily IF you have a little experience -- and patience -- disassembling these machines.

The only tool you need is the correct size Phillips screwdriver. The power input port (the yellow jack) is a small removable piece of plastic which connects via a small cable to the motherboard. It is designed to be replaceable. However, to get to it you must remove the keyboard, palmrest, keyboard bezel, modem card, and LCD display (in that order). It's about 15 screws and and 5 connectors. (Note: The palmrest and keyboard bezel are 2 pieces in 14" models, 1 piece in 15" models.)

The part is included in the System Misc. Parts kit (use updated FRU #26R9985, not the one shown on the page in the link below):
http://www-307.ibm.com/pc/support/site. ... MIGR-46504

The machine disassembly instructions are here:
http://www-307.ibm.com/pc/support/site. ... MIGR-46464

Good luck!

[rickg17]

You ROCK!

Thanks very much!!