R40 - Reattaching Fan Connector?

[JDalton]

Hello,

I have here an R40, model 2681-HU1, whose fan connector has been detached from the motherboard. This of course is preventing the computer from booting since a powered fan must be detected during boot-up.

The R40 is from 2003, so it is certainly reasonable to invest in a newer replacement machine, but I'm trying to figure out if this is repairable through soldering as I can pass this one down to a family member.

Since the motherboard will remain non-functional as long as the connector is detached, I imagine I don't have much to lose by trying if it is possible to do so, as long as I remove all other components attached to the motherboard first.

Does anyone have any experience with this sort of repair? I've read that it is recommended to use a soldering tool rated no more than 30W to ensure the safety of the motherboard components - is this true? If so, what exactly should I be reconnecting -- either the two flat plates on the bottom of the connector to the board, the three pins sticking out to the pins sticking out of the board, or both?

Thanks in advance for any information.