G4 Powerbook 12" - looking for a new latch hook!

[colmaclean]

The latch hook for my G4 Powerbook 12" has gone missing, it had been getting gradually less trustworthy but has finally detached itself.

Of course, my girlfriend was using the computer at the time (coincidence?) and she can't remember where she was when it happened!

Had a look on Google and most people seem to require an entirely new front bezel (from ifixit.com). I think I should be able to get away with just another latch hook.

Any ideas? I'd really like to be able to close my PB at night!

 

[merl1n]

Have you tried a large rubber band?


Sorry I couldn't resist.

You can try this website and link. There are 8 pages of parts for all of the aluminum pbs. Just look for the 12" parts.

http://www.pbparts.com/shop.php//_al-p1

 

[colmaclean]

Have you tried a large rubber band?

I'd be afraid it would melt!

You can try this website and link. There are 8 pages of parts for all of the aluminum pbs. Just look for the 12" parts.

http://www.pbparts.com/shop.php//_al-p1

Thanks for the tip-off. Unfortunately, they only list a latch-hook assembly for the 15" and 17" models! I've sent them an email anyway, just in case their inventory gets updated...

 

[merl1n]

I'd be afraid it would melt!

A Bungie cord could also work...

 

[BanjoBanker]

I had the same problem last year. A real bummer. I did not lose the little hook, but I was unable to reattach it. I use a wide rubber band that was intended to be a bookmark. I bought at Barnes and Noble and have been quite pleased. It is a little awkward at times, but the 12" is not my main computer any more. I use it mainly when I am on the road.
Good luck getting it fixed.

 

[merl1n]

If you do find the part, I just want to give you a warning...

The Aluminum PB 12" is a royal PIA to work on - dozens of screws and difficult to to get inside of it. You may just want to send it out for repair.

 

[colmaclean]

Heard back from PBParts - apparently for the 12" PB the latch hook is part of the display bezel, so I'd have to purchase that and fit it. Given Merlin's sage advice, I reckon this is too much of a risk.

Guess it's another item on my growing list of reasons to upgrade to a nice new MBP!

In the meantime, anyone know a good source of industrial-strength rubber bands?

 

[itanibro]

Try eBay

My friend, the 12" PB is one of the best notebooks Apple ever put out. I would hang onto the baby if I were you. Having said that...try eBay for used PB's or parts. cheers.

 

[colmaclean]

My friend, the 12" PB is one of the best notebooks Apple ever put out. I would hang onto the baby if I were you. Having said that...try eBay for used PB's or parts. cheers.

You're right, one of the reasons I've not upgraded is because Apple has yet to come up with a serious contender.

A 12" MBP would have my wallet out in an instant!