My Lenovo Loq laptop has a faulty Mediatek wifi card that often disconnects. I’ve bought an Intel 210AX as a replacement, but I’m struggling with one overly tight screw. Is there a way to remove it using a smaller Phillips head screwdriver, or is it permanently stuck?
Try using epoxy to adhere an old screwdriver to the screw, which you can then turn once it sets. Best of luck with it.
Kingsley said:
Try using epoxy to adhere an old screwdriver to the screw, which you can then turn once it sets. Best of luck with it.
Your options are pretty limited to using epoxy or drilling it out, though using a drill can be risky and should be a last resort.
@Neve
Drilling near the motherboard is risky; I wouldn’t recommend it.
Kingsley said:
@Neve
Drilling near the motherboard is risky; I wouldn’t recommend it.
If you’re feeling bold, you might just drill off the top of the screw to release the wifi card. But that’s definitely a riskier move.
Make sure there isn’t a plastic sticker covering the screw head. That might be preventing you from getting a good grip.
Teagan said:
Make sure there isn’t a plastic sticker covering the screw head. That might be preventing you from getting a good grip.
I’ve already removed and replaced the sticker during my attempts, so that’s not the issue.
@Adi
A clear photo without the plastic might help us give better advice on how to deal with the screw.
You could try a small torx screwdriver, which might fit better due to its flat and sharp edges. Apply steady pressure and turn slowly to avoid damaging the screw further.
Perry said:
You could try a small torx screwdriver, which might fit better due to its flat and sharp edges. Apply steady pressure and turn slowly to avoid damaging the screw further.
I used a PH00 screwdriver; do you think a PH000 could work, or is it too small now that the screw is stripped?
@Adi
The PH000 might be too small for a stripped screw. I’d recommend trying the torx as it provides more grip due to its design.
Consider using a screw extractor. There are specialized tools designed for this purpose, like the ones found here: Precision Screw Extractor Set: Small Stripped Screw Remover
Removing this screw can be incredibly frustrating, I’ve been there.
Uma said:
Removing this screw can be incredibly frustrating, I’ve been there.
It’s really tough, isn’t it? Were you eventually able to get it out?
Uma said:
Removing this screw can be incredibly frustrating, I’ve been there.
It’s really tough, isn’t it? Were you eventually able to get it out?
Unfortunately, no. Despite having a full set of screwdrivers specifically for laptops, this was the first time I couldn’t open one up. It’s quite frustrating with modern laptops.
@Uma
It feels like they make them this way on purpose…