Pavilion a384x desktop broken power button

[setownse]

I have an a384x desktop that has a broken/sticking power button. PC operates normally except for this problem. I also am helping a non-profit agency with their pc with identical problem. Mine has 1 of 4 plastic tabs on front panel broken, the other pc has 3 of the 4 broken. After searching on web, I see this is a common problem but no one seems to have an easy repair. Parts are not available through HP

[stevet40c5]

I have a similar issue with my HP Media Center PC m7077c.  The plastic 'spring' behind the front panel is broken.  I had to remove the front panel, remove the plastic 'spring' and remove the button.  The PC works perfectly, but I have to power on and off using my little finger through the whole left from removing the button parts.  I would love to purchase a replacement plastic sping/clip thing (whatever the technical term is) but I am unable to locate a part through HP or any other supplier.  If HP or anyone has one, please contact me at[text removed for privacy] (Thanks, Steve)

[rjhanna]

If anyone knows where I  can get a new power button "spring", please let me know. Its a pain sticking my pinky into hole to push onto the tiny nub to power on the pc. My email is [text removed for privacy].... thanks!

[bruceD]

I need two of them. Did you ever find out if they're available?

[NoraP1017]

Wendy-How did you remove what you had to to be able to use your finger to push the broken power button.

{Personal Information Removed}

[skjones]

The cure is not that difficult. Take the button with you to your local hardware store. Find a fairly stout spring that fits inside the button. Cut the spring to the right length. Install the button with the spring. Mine has been working fine for over a year with this fix.

[fla_2]

Fixing it with a metal spring sounds like a good inexpensive solution.  If someone has more money than time (not me), the name and part number is: "Pavilion Main Bezel - Panther: 5069-5049".  You need to replace the entire front bezel since the broken plastic spring is riveted into the main bezel with a melted plastic rivet.  I found this info on www.partstore.com and they have a cool feature on their website that lists all HP models that use the given part.  I'm not associated with partstore.com in any way and a quick google search found many sites selling the same part number for less.

[phillmd]

I think your suggestion (using a spring) is superior to my solution, but...  I didn't want to bother to try to find the proper spring.  My solution has worked for about a week so far.  I used wire twist ties (see photo). 

[phillmd]

It's been a month, and my twist tie solution is still working.

[phillmd]

It's been 4 months and my repair is still working fine.