T61p Loose Hinges - Worth repairing?

[ThinkPharaoh]

My T61p LCD hinges just got loose. If I don't fix them, would that affect its functionality? So far, it is working fine.

Thanks

[dr_st]

Welcome to the forum.

Just got loose? Usually it's a gradual process.

I've seen many T61 units with loose hinges, and my impression is that it's mostly an aesthetic, not functional issue.

[ThinkPharaoh]

For me, it was sudden.

I heard a snap then the hinges are loose.

This laptop is 7 years old.

There is a gap in the LCD screen.

Pictures are here (http://imgur.com/QHkBwEl,3FBjgyj) and (http://imgur.com/QHkBwEl,3FBjgyj#1)

Recommendations are appreciated.

[RealBlackStuff]

Sounds like one of your hinges (usually the left one) is broken.
You'll need to remove palmrest/keyboard/keyboard bezel first, then disconnect antenna wires and LCD cable.
Then remove the complete LCD-lid.
Now take the LCD-lid itself apart, to access/replace both hinges.
Illustrated instructions can be found via the HMM link at the top of this page.
Find ThinkPad T61, T61p 15.4 inch widescreen (or 14.1 inch standard) and click on the PDF-symbol to the right of it.

Find the proper P/N or FRU for your hinges (T61 and T61p use the same) in the HMM and order them from e.g. feebay.

[laowai]

the hinges tend to get loose, and then snap one day. for me it's been exactly once every 4 years.

the cost of replacing them is basically nothing, it's just annoying