Macbook RAM installation Problems

[B-Line]

I just recieved some new RAM for my macbook today. When trying to remove the L-shaped bracket to access the RAM slots, I cannot remove one screw (the one furthest away from the bend in the l bracket). Two of the screw required a minimal amount of torque to loosen, but the final one is crazy. I am using a philips #00 screwdriver. Does anyone have any suggestions what to do? I live 2 hours away from an apple dealer (I will not take it to best buy). I really dont want to strip the screwhead!

thanks

 

[coledog]

Hmm, toughy...I know I used eyeglass repair screwdrivers. They're probably about the same size as the one you're using.

I would suggest to keep trying...but nice and easy.
Good luck!

 

[BlackMax]

I've found that the #00 phillips I purchased at Sears doesn't always work very well, but another technical phillips I picked up at CompUSA does. So one suggestion would be to try another screwdriver. The proper fitting phillips head will make all the difference.

Sometimes when I've encountered a particularly stubborn screw I'll lightly tap the screwdriver with a wrench while it is seated in the screw. This seems to help break the screw loose and it also ensures the phillips head is seated properly in the screw before I apply downward pressure and turn the screwdriver gently.

Just be sure to take your time, be patient and try not to force it too much. Eventually it will break loose.

 

[unixfool]

I just recieved some new RAM for my macbook today. When trying to remove the L-shaped bracket to access the RAM slots, I cannot remove one screw (the one furthest away from the bend in the l bracket). Two of the screw required a minimal amount of torque to loosen, but the final one is crazy. I am using a philips #00 screwdriver. Does anyone have any suggestions what to do? I live 2 hours away from an apple dealer (I will not take it to best buy). I really dont want to strip the screwhead!

thanks

Try backing out the screws equally...turn one a few times, then turn the next one the same amount, then do the next...keep doing it until they're out. I think I remember having the same issue.

 

[heySparky]

I had the same problem with one screw. I tried alternating loosing then slightly tightening it until I got the thread lock crap they put on the screw to break loose. I did end up severely damaging the screw head so I used my dremel tool and cut a slot in the head.

Good luck.

 

[gavd]

I ended up using pliers to turn the screwdriver as it gave me more leverage. Worked fine.

 

[B-Line]

Ya, the screw isn't striped yet, and I really dont want to resort to using a dremel tool. I am going to try to find another screw driver. I am having a tought time finding a philips #00 with a short handle. I have seen a #000, maybe it would work better. Thanks everyone for replying

 

[jeremy.king]

I ended up using pliers to turn the screwdriver as it gave me more leverage. Worked fine.

I use this "trick" all the time. This way I can focus on downforce with one hand and turning the screwdriver with the other.

 

[gavd]

I use this "trick" all the time. This way I can focus on downforce with one hand and turning the screwdriver with the other.

I find myself doing this quite often now, but it took me a while of struggling to undo a tight screw before I thought of it!

 

[B-Line]

Thanks everyone for your help and suggestions. I finally got the cover off and after that it was smooth sailing. WOW 2 gb of ram is awesome for parallels

 

[coledog]

WOW 2 gb of ram is awesome for parallels

I'm waiting for my 2nd gig of RAM to arrive for exactly that reason.
Glad to know it makes a big difference!!