What can I do about notebook fan grate that is touching the fan?

August 3, 2006 3:52 PM

The metal grate that keeps fingers, etc. out of the fans on the bottom of my Toshiba notebook had bent inward towards the computer. Help!

The result is that when the fan spins, it makes a terrible noise.

This is compounded by the fact that I am on a business trip across the country from my home. For now, I have my laptop in silent mode to minimize fan use. But I need to know 2 things:

1. How hard is it going to be to find/replace this part?

2. For the short term, can I just get something and bend the mesh grate back out?

Thanks, as always.

posted by 4ster to Computers & Internet (4 answers total)

hemostat?
posted by hortense at 4:35 PM on August 3, 2006

Best answer: With the computer off, you might be able to unbend and hook a paper clip through the middle of the mesh, threading it through so you can grab both ends. Gently pull it away from the fan. Needlenose pliers would help manuver the paperclip but depending on the mesh you might not need them.
posted by one at 4:56 PM on August 3, 2006

It's not like it's something critical. I would just bend it back out with a pocket knife or whatever you have on hand. If it was my laptop I wouldn't bother replacing it. Laptops are a pain to take apart and get back together. As long as the grill is no longer touching the fan you won't have issues.
posted by 6550 at 7:56 PM on August 3, 2006

Response by poster: The paper clip worked. Thanks one.

I still may have to secure the grill somehow, as it has separated from the chassis and I am afraid it might get snagged on something.
posted by 4ster at 9:50 PM on August 3, 2006