T20 CCFL replacement nightmare turned dreamlike

[tfflivemb2]

OK, here is my story: I have a T20 that is on loan to a family member that had a backlight that was going to go out, but I put it off for as long as I could, because I was not really looking forward to replacing the CCFL, as I haven't had to do it before, despite wanting to learn Well, now it would only turn on REALLY dark red then the display would turn off.

Ok, enough putting it off, time to replace the CCFL:

I disassembled the display and removed the LG branded LCD. (LG 141x6 (A1IB)). I removed the silver plating (held by four small screws) that runs across the bottom of the LCD, which exposed the brass looking holder for the CCFL. While trying to remove the CCFL (to get an accurate measurement of length) from the brass holder IT BROKE!!!

I went to lcdpart.com (I guess formerly moniserv.com), and it turns out that all of the 14.1" LCDs appear to use the same part number (MS20290). FWIW, the part number reflects the size: MS = Moniserve 20=2.0mm diameter 290=290mm length. Hmmm, all the same size...hmmm. Then I remembered that I have an i1400 that has a 14.1" LCD...maybe I could use that CCFL, instead of spending $20 on a replacement bulb.

I removed the LCD from the i1400, and saw that the LCD panel appeared to be the same as the one that I removed from the T20, except for being a different brand. The i1400 was a Samsung (lt141x7-124). So this point, I figured that the i1400 wasn't working, why not try the ENTIRE LCD in the T20.

Well the LCD fit almost perfectly and the LCD was even brighter that the one in my T21. I did however, have to shave down some of the plastics on the inside of the display bezel, because there was formed plastic on the inside to help push the LCD forward and in place. Because of the location of the mechanics of the LCD itself, it was causing a ripple effect on the LCD, when the system was on. After shaving down the plastics, it was no longer pressing the back of the LCD, thus eliminating the ripple effect. Works like a charm, a very bright charm!!

So, I guess I can now continue putting off gaining the experience of replacing a CCFL for even longer.