Thinkpads Forum

Hi there,

I am planning to work different thinkpads.

There is a long chapter in the IBM maintenance manual
About their special [plastic coated] screws and the TORQUE screwdriver.

I also have one screw on my Thinkpad 600 that simply doesn't want to come off.

What kind of screwdrivers do you recommend?

Is there a allrounder?

Is there any trick to get even the hardest screws out (force/oil/drilling ect)?

Sorry. I know it is such a basic question.


Many thanks.
CF

Hi ,

a bit refrased question:

Which screw driver (brand/size) do you recommend?
to use on the THINKPAD series (T20 / T22/ 600)

Many thanks,

CF

I think any quality brand should be fine (e.g. Stanley, Craftsman, Husky, etc).

So far, I 've needed two sizes of phillips for working on my Thinkpad and my sister's Dell Latitude:

#0 - general stuff, like memory covers, hard drive bracket screws, etc

#000 - for the caddy around my CDROM (when I needed to transfer the bracketry to my CDRW/DVD Drive)

As for the one that doesn't want to come off, what screw is it? The ones holding the bracket to my old CDROM drive were very stubborn, but once I got the #000 (which fit the head just right), I was able to get them out with a little work.

The biggest thing is finding the right screwdriver to fit the head of the screw - too big a tip, or too long, and you risk stripping the head of the screw.

HTH,

Rob

Hi Rob,

many thanks for your reply.

I will get those two.

The hard screw is on the memory lid of my Thinkpad 600.

I have generic screw drivers but they are not strong enough (soft metal).

All the best,
CF

I used dollar store specials to get the screw off my Memory Lid,,, This afternoon in fact.... I do admit it was a "Precision" type set

As for the CD-ROM caddy someone else mentioned... I got mine off using the same set of screwdrivers, a lot of pressure and a good pair of pliers (Vice grips would have worked better) the latter applied to the shaft of the screwdriver.

Seems. There was evidence of LOCKITE (Tm) or a simular product on the threads of the screws when I got them out... I use a lot of Locktite for assorted stuff where I plan on NEVER removing that screw ever again

Works well,, Bolts go in like they were oiled.. and a few hours later if you try to take them out it's like they were welded.. Actually welds are not as strong per some tests some companies have run

(Or to be more exact, welds are easier to break)

Hi Wa8yxm,


many thanks for sharing. It makes now so much sense.

The LOCKITE screw concept is quiet strange ...

All the best,
CF

I tried and I think the screw driver from 1 pound shop is enough.

Hi,

thanks Wireless4laptop.

I think however if there is Locktie or glue involved

you'll need something stronger [pliers & Vice grips sounds great!]

All the best,
CF