How to Dismantle an IBM Thinkpad Laptop

The IBM ThinkPad series of laptops are slim line models that are meant to be more portable and lightweight than standard notebook computers. Unfortunately, the smaller size also means that it is harder to work on the internal hardware components, as there are more parts taking up the same amount of space. Completely dismantling a ThinkPad laptop can be a difficult task, but it is possible to do it on your own without taking it to a service center.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdriver
• Anti-static wrist strap

1. Shut down the IBM ThinkPad laptop. Close the LCD monitor lid and turn the ThinkPad over so that the bottom of the computer is facing up.

2. Hold down the black battery release button and then slide the battery out of the ThinkPad's case. Remove the screws on the bottom end of the case and the screw on the left side that holds the DVD drive in place.

3. Pull off the plastic covers that hide the hard drive and random access memory (RAM). Pull the hard drive out of its slot. Grab onto two ends of the first RAM module and lift it out of the ThinkPad.

4. Repeat the process if your model of ThinkPad has a second RAM module underneath the first module. Flip the ThinkPad over and open the LCD monitor lid.

5. Slide the edge of your screwdriver into the seam between the keyboard and the right side of the case. Wedge the keyboard upward until you can see two cables connected to the motherboard.

6. Disconnect the cables and then take the keyboard off of the Thinkpad. Remove the screws holding the network card at the right side of the motherboard. Lift off the network card to reveal the processor's heat sink and fan assembly.

7. Disconnect the cable running from the heat sink and fan assembly to the motherboard. Remove the screws holding the assembly to the processor. Remove the assembly and then lift the processor of the motherboard socket.

8. Pull out the four rubber stoppers on the edges of the LCD monitor. Remove the screws located underneath the stoppers. Pull the outer casing off of the LCD monitor. Disconnect the cable running from the motherboard to the monitor.

9. Remove the remaining screws holding the motherboard to the ThinkPad's case. Lift out the motherboard to finish disassembling the ThinkPad laptop.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't have an anti-static wrist strap, you can still prevent damage to your ThinkPad from electrostatic discharge. To ground yourself without a wrist strap, periodically grab onto a metal object that is rooted to the floor.
• The screws on the outside of the ThinkPad case and the screws inside the motherboard are different sizes. Be sure to keep them separate if you plan on reassembling your laptop. Completely disassembling your ThinkPad laptop will void the warranty. Only attempt to disassemble the unit if the warranty has already expired, as the warranty will likely cover the repair of any problems you are trying to fix yourself.

References

• IBM Thinkpad Maintenance Manual
• Thinkpad Disassembly Guide