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my w520 hinges are too tight

Posted: Sun Nov 06, 2016 2:12 am
by gauthier
Hi, I finally got my w520, a very nice & maxed out machine which runs quiet and fast.

I have two small issues though, first is the main trackpoint buttons are very mushy which I know how to fix (change the keyboard, is there anything else I can do?) but the other problem is that the hinges are too tight and it feels eventually I'll harm the screen (I need to adjust the hinge frequently when changing posture etc.).

Is there anything I can do with regard to the hinges, I was wondering if there is any way to get those to act smoother?

I found that video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=paZRDPW_ZYo is that a good way?

Also found this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lkNj-fb08i4 is the W520 based on same rollcage of W500?

Thanks for your help.

Re: my w520 hinges are too tight

Posted: Sun Nov 06, 2016 8:29 am
by RealBlackStuff
Loosening a nut may help, you could also try to put some WD40 on the hinges (if you can stand the WD40-smell).

Re: my w520 hinges are too tight

Posted: Sun Nov 06, 2016 8:32 am
by MikalE
I wouldn't recommend the WD-40. When the hydrocarbons eventually evaporate you'll end up with a sticky gooey mess and it will be worse than it was before.

WD-40 was not designed to be a lubricant. Try a small drop of 3-in-1 oil, or any good firearms lube. CLP is a good lube with teflon and so is Frog Lube.

Re: my w520 hinges are too tight

Posted: Sun Nov 06, 2016 8:40 am
by brchan
I made a post on how to loosen the hinges (should be same for W520 and W510): http://forum.thinkpads.com/viewtopic.ph ... hinge+w530

I agree with MikalE on not using WD40. If you don't want to buy any lube, petroleum jelly should be good enough for the hinges. It has been working in my W530 over half a year without any problems.

Re: my w520 hinges are too tight

Posted: Sun Nov 06, 2016 8:50 pm
by gauthier
Thanks to the three of you for your advices, I'm going to get proper wrench and try to adjust the nut as a first measure.