the power connector on the back on my t43p

[patfla]

is going. Which is maybe not surprising after something like 3-and-a-hlf years.

That is, the electrical connection (to AC) is intermittent. I'll sometimes have to wiggle or juggle the cable around several times before what my thinkpad believes my connection to be battery or AC goes from battery to AC.

I changed cords several times (I have two) and there was no change in behavior. So I assume it's the connector.

I read around the forms last night. It seems the power connector (pin hole sort) might be tightened down from the inside (?). I don't mind opening up the case and removing most of the parts - I've done it before.

So is the part itself integrated with the motherboard (which would argue against your be able to tighten it)? Or is it separate (meaning discrete)? And if it's separate it would appear that you can buy a new part if needed (but where)?

I have the Hardware Maintenance Manual and someone suggested p. 120 (but for what exactly). Went there and there was nothing that I could see about the back power connector (so where?). p. 120 may have been about taking apart the laptop but then I've been through that procedure before.

thanx.

[sjthinkpader]

Most modern Thinkpads have a pigtailed A/C socket to reduce solder joint failure at the connector. The T4x has a screw attaching this socket to an internal subframe on top just underneath the keyboard bezel. The LCD may also need to be removed to tighten it.

In some cases, the side contact spring may be flattens or slipped out of place in the socket necessitating a replacement. In that case the entire motherboard must be removed to replace this A/C socket.

[patfla]

thanx - that sounds quite useful. Let me start tearing apart my t43 (I'll consult the HMM of course). Don't mind trying to take out the LCD. And we'll see.

The worst that can happen is that I finally have a full justification for buying that Macbook Pro that I've eying and saving for for some time. After whatever announcements occur at the WWDC next wk of course.