Broken laptop case due to missing screws - How repair?

[mladytink]

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@LittleKoala wrote:

I recently stumbled across the same issue. Did they ever get back to you with a resolution?

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I never heard back... guess this forum is too old?

[FingersUK]

Hi,

So although this appeard to be a defect (hinges too stiff?) I had no asistance from HP.

However, the relevant part is now available on Ebay (do a search for someting like "Pavilion 15-AU Palmrest").

Its not a task for the feint-hearted as the motherboard etc. are all screwed to the back of the palmrest, but I replaced the part (applying WD40 to the hinges while the case was appart) and now as good as new.The replacement palmrest before installing 

[patdio58]

I too have this problem. I have contacted HP Support.  I have the extended warranty CarePack of 3years 3 Days "In Home" 

repair.  In Home repair referring to HP Hardware products, and all defective HP internal components.

The Support person would not authorize an "In Home" repair. He wanted to send me a prepaid box to send it to HP Service Center. This is clearly qualifies as an  "In Home" repair. 

[FingersUK]

Really, really disappointed now ... this is the new palm rest, the original hinges are obviously too stiff    😠

[Huffer]

I try to tell people that you cannot attack the surface symptoms of this issue. It requires replacement of the hinges and new plastic chassis pieces. If you do not replace the hinges this is the end result. I get a lot of pushback and unless directly asked I will not go into it as it always just ends in disagreement. Sorry for your troubles. 

[FingersUK]

Huffer, it seems absolutely sound advice to replace the hinges.

One question, does anyone know if there is a way of ensuring that the replacement hinges are not going to have the same issue, for example a specific part number to order?    Original laptop is a HP Pavilion - 15-Au111na

Thanks in advance.

[Huffer]

That is a valid concern I am afraid. The hinges only have one HP Part number. The hinges you find on eBay and such are generally not made under contract with HP they are just knockoffs and actually made a little lighter so generally do not have these problems. If anything they can be too loose, not too tight. 

[FingersUK]

 Yes, I took a look on Ebay, and the other option is hinges (or complete lid) salvaged from a scrapped machine.... but I can see that the likely reason its now being sold as parts is because of the hinges....

I guess its just a case of buying hinges (new or salvaged - they are not particularly expensive) and then comparing the level of resistance with the originals before fitting.... problem is if they exhibit the same problem the damage to the case is much more expensive.

[Arthur-c]

@FingersUK

I have brought your issue to the attention of an appropriate team within HP. They will likely request information from you in order to look up your case details or product serial number. Please look for a private message from an identified HP contact. Additionally, keep in mind not to publicly post personal information (serial numbers and case details).

If you are unfamiliar with how the Community's private message capability works, you can learn about that here.
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