Thinkpads Forum

Hi all,

I bought my x60t (used) fairly recently. I just noticed this funny flop/wobble in the hinge when the screen is in the laptop configuration (ie facing the keyboard and "locked" into place).

The screen wobbles loosely back and forth by about 1-2 degrees. From the side, I can see the disc part of the hinge rise up from the horizontal by about 2mm front and back.

It looks like the hinge is loose at where the disc part is mounted to the chassis. While all other aspects of the hinge remain nice and tight.

What is interesting is that the flop/wobble only happens when the screen is locked into the laptop mode. As soon as I pivot the screen away from the laptop mode the flop/wobble goes away.

This is by no means a show-stopping issue but after so many years to tight wobble-free screens on other thinkpads it is annoying to see this happen.

Is this normal? If not, is this something I can tighten myself? Or does the whole hinge need to be replaced?

All input appreciated.

I just check my X60T. It doesn't flop/wobble front to back. At the rotating hinge, it's rock solid. However, I did notice some side to side movement at the front, where the latch is located. The latch has some give, ie. is not completely tight.

Not sure if what you're experiencing is a problem or just normal wear and tear. I'd say if it doesn't impact operation, it may be nothing to worry about.

There are two screws a the base of the rotating hinge that are only accessible when the battery is removed. Maybe see if they need tightening? Hope this helps.

Cheers,

Thanks for checking mockli.
The two screws are tight.
I looked at the HMM but it did not indicate any option to tighten any other screws internal to the hinge.
As you said, it does not affect operations. So I shall stop worrying about it.
I also have the same slight give with the locking latch.
All just wear and tear I guess.

There's no adjustment there, so the hinge needs to be replaced it you want a tighter LCD.