Hardware Issue, not sure where to ask

[iPhonagain]

okay, so I just bought a 2015 MacBook Pro off eBay and it is wonderful as I naturally expected it to be. The only issue is pretty minor and I was aware of it before I bought it as it was described in the listing. On the left corner of the lower half, where the keyboard is - not the screen - there is a small area where the aluminum is scratched upwards due to being hit or rubbed, it’s raised like above and below the left corner but not the corner itself, what you see when the lid is closed, isn’t damaged at all. So kind of a weird thing. My question is how can I smooth this out? Sandpaper or a Dremel? Blowtorch? I’ve never worked on aluminum so I have no clue what to do. It’s only cosmetic and doesn’t threaten the screen, just want to smooth it out.
Any and all ideas are welcome, I am handy with basic power tools so no fear there.

 

[chown33]

I doubt you'd need any kind of power tool at all. It's aluminum, not carbon steel.

I'd probably use something like a needle file, sometimes also called a jeweler's file. They're pretty small (like a thin pencil), with very fine teeth. They also come in lots of shapes: triangular, flat, round, elliptical, etc.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File_(tool)#Needle_files

Very fine emery paper (at least 400 grit) with a hard flat backing block might be a workable substitute, but it will likely need more skill than working with needle files.

If you've never worked on aluminum, I recommend practicing on something cheap and disposable. Go to a hardware store and buy a piece of angle bracket aluminum, or an aluminum casting like a hat hook, or pretty much anything made out of aluminum that isn't sheet metal or foil. Then hit it a few times with a screwdriver or the claw of a hammer, to raise some scratches on it. Then file them down until they're smooth. Repeat as needed until you like the finish and shaping you get. Do not practice on your finished piece, i.e. the MacBook, or you'll almost certainly regret it.

 

[hobowankenobi]

Sounds like a bend typical of a drop impact.

Keep in mind the case is very thin. Except at the corners...anywhere else and there is not much material to spare.

And yes, soft enough for files and other hand abrasives.

Also keep in mind that the case is anodized with a low sheen finish. Where ever you file or sand is likely to be more shiny, would stand out. Consider if that is better (or worse) than the dent.

Last, be careful not to let any of the shaving slip inside, either at the vent in the hing, or under any keys.

 

[iPhonagain]

I doubt you'd need any kind of power tool at all. It's aluminum, not carbon steel.

I'd probably use something like a needle file, sometimes also called a jeweler's file. They're pretty small (like a thin pencil), with very fine teeth. They also come in lots of shapes: triangular, flat, round, elliptical, etc.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File_(tool)#Needle_files

Very fine emery paper (at least 400 grit) with a hard flat backing block might be a workable substitute, but it will likely need more skill than working with needle files.

If you've never worked on aluminum, I recommend practicing on something cheap and disposable. Go to a hardware store and buy a piece of angle bracket aluminum, or an aluminum casting like a hat hook, or pretty much anything made out of aluminum that isn't sheet metal or foil. Then hit it a few times with a screwdriver or the claw of a hammer, to raise some scratches on it. Then file them down until they're smooth. Repeat as needed until you like the finish and shaping you get. Do not practice on your finished piece, i.e. the MacBook, or you'll almost certainly regret it.

Great advice, thank you!
[doublepost=1534289957][/doublepost]

Sounds like a bend typical of a drop impact.

Keep in mind the case is very thin. Except at the corners...anywhere else and there is not much material to spare.

Great advice, thank you!

And yes, soft enough for files and other hand abrasives.

Also keep in mind that the case is anodized with a low sheen finish. Where ever you file or sand is likely to be more shiny, would stand out. Consider if that is better (or worse) than the dent.

Last, be careful not to let any of the shaving slip inside, either at the vent in the hing, or under any keys.

Sounds like a bend typical of a drop impact.

Keep in mind the case is very thin. Except at the corners...anywhere else and there is not much material to spare.

And yes, soft enough for files and other hand abrasives.

Also keep in mind that the case is anodized with a low sheen finish. Where ever you file or sand is likely to be more shiny, would stand out. Consider if that is better (or worse) than the dent.

Last, be careful not to let any of the shaving slip inside, either at the vent in the hing, or under any keys.

Thanks, and yes I am worried about the shavings as well, will make sure to tape over the keyboard good before I start anything.