A31P Latches

[gb_ibmguy]

I've just acquired 2 A31P Flexviews that have broken cover lid latches. How difficult are these to replace? I've seen a source on FeeBay for them. $8.95 for the pair. Just wondering what the PITA factor is. If anyone has some guidance in how to replace, I'd appreciate it.

Greg

[Harryc]

http://www-307.ibm.com/pc/support/site. ... 39796.html
Latches aren't too bad. You have to remove the LCD bezel to get at them.

[Neil]

...wondering what the PITA factor is.

Doh! Harry posted a nice little reply while I was typing. Oh, well here is what I wrote anyway:

A little, but not too bad. I think you can do it just by removing the LCD bezel. Three screws across the bottom, and then carefully remove the bezel that is secured by plastic snap catches on the sides and top. And I do mean carefully, it's not hard to break the bezel while removing it. I don't think the LCD panel has to be removed, but if it does, that's just four more screws through the sides of the lid. Just pay close attention to the way the latches are placed, so you can put the new ones back in the right way. If you let everything just fall out, it will take a while to figure out how it all goes back. Oh! And don't forget to download a copy of the hardware maintenance manual for your model. Don't ever open up a Thinkpad without it. At least not the first time. It's much easier to follow the directions and do it right the first time, than break stuff trying to figure it out on your own.

[ajkula66]

If you're really careful, you don't even have to remove the bezel.

[gb_ibmguy]

Ok, George,
I'll bite, how do you do that
I've had these things in many, many parts, just never attacked the lids (yet). In looking at the box and he HWM, it just doesn't seem possible. Seeing as I have two lids that need latches replaced,your experience is more than welcome

Greg

[ajkula66]

Well, there is one thing that determines whether this is doable, and that is the shape of your hands, more precisely the size of your fingers.

If you have a fairly delicate set of hands (I do for a male), you can lift the bezel very carefully, slide one finger to keep it above the screen, and then push the latch in or out holding the screwdriver in your other hand.

I hope I've explained this well enough. If not, feel free to ask for specifics.

[gb_ibmguy]

George,

That sounds like an event you could probably sell tickets to

I think for my first attempt, I'll stick with the longer way, maybe after doing a few dozen (like you), I'll be able to do the 3 handed replacement procedure with only my own 2 hands and screwdrivers and maybe a few chicken bones and feathers for good luck.

Thanks!

Greg

[proaudioguy]

I probably have some latches (maybe enough for both machines). Let me know if you need them.