R61 Loose Hinges

[dcast]

Hi everybody, unfortunately I have just noticed that the hinges in my R61 have gotten a little loose (Wouldn't you know it, warranty expired on April 8th). I am wondering if they are easily tightened, although some of my preliminary research it sounds like it won't be easy. I am also considering replacing it outright, I have decided that WXGA isn't enough real estate for me and I really should have bought the bluetooth upgrade when I purchased it and the intel X3100 graphics are lack luster (literally). Thats what I get for buying a stripped down machine I guess. I was thinking of either getting a T60/p with a 14 inch SXGA and dedicated graphics or even a T4Xp which would probably suit me fine since I don't really do anything strenuous, running linux no less. Anyone have any thoughts?

[Harryc]

Assuming that you have a 14" R61, use the maintenance manual pages 88 and 89. You will find (6) total screws, (4) outside and (2) inside the machine that need to be tightened. You need to remove the palm rest, keyboard, and keyboard bezel to get at the (2) inside screws. There is no way to tighten just the hinge friction, so if the slop is still present after tightening the screws then hinge replacement is in order.
http://www-307.ibm.com/pc/support/site. ... 64200.html

[dcast]

Yes, it is a 14". Thanks for the reply. I will give it a shot trying to tighten up those screws, hopefully I won't have to replace the hinges. Any thoughts on just replacing the ThinkPad?

[Harryc]

Given the choice of a T60/p with a 14 inch SXGA or similarly equiped T43p, I would definately choose the T60/p (faster, quieter, newer technology). Not sure what else you are looking for in the way of advice.

[ZaZ]

The R60 is an option as well, though they're a little harder to find. It can be had with the X1300X/1400 along with a SXGA+ screen. Mine runs very cool and quiet.

[dcast]

Thanks for the replies. I will check into the various options more when I get home for the summer. First I've got to finish up my finals .