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Screwed life

cassekrut -  

Hello,

I tried to open my Asus Rog STRIX G15 laptop, but one screw is completely stripped, COMPLETELY.

I’ve already tried the rubber band technique, but to no avail; I absolutely need to open this computer to clean it as it’s filled with dust.

Do you have any idea how I could remove this screw, please?

Best regards

6 answers

  1.  MaxGix Contributor

    Hello,

    If you have a rotary tool like a Dremel, you can try making a slot and using a suitable flat screwdriver. Another option is super glue; you glue the screwdriver, wait for it to dry completely, and then turn it gently.

    In any case, it's always tricky. Good luck.

    ++

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    1. cassekrut Author

      I already tried Superglue and it loosened it a bit but it leaves white marks on the plastic of the computer, I think I can unscrew it completely with glue but I’ll need to figure out how to remove those stains...

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    2. Pierr10 Moderator
      @cassekrut

      For the white marks, you can try polishing the plastic.

      Be careful with Superglue. The risk is that the glue overflows and you end up gluing the screw to the plastic. Use gel glue, which will run less. Try to glue a second countersunk screw onto the first one (head to head).

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    3. MaxGix Contributor
      @cassekrut

      You can put painter's tape and then trace around the screw; that should help limit the issue. Just be careful not to let the glue overflow.

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  2. Pierr10 Moderator

    Hello,

    I’m rather pessimistic. If the screw head is damaged, it’s because the screw is stuck and the screwdriver slipped.
    I see only one solution: to grind off the screw head with a bit attached to a drill, like a Dremel.
    It will no longer hold the cover, which you can then remove. After that, you should be able to take out the rest of the screw (the threaded part) by using pliers.

    What is well conceived is clearly stated,
    And the words to say it come easily.
    (Boileau)

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    2. fabul Moderator

      Hello,

      https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=reverse+drill+bit+extractor&_sacat=0&_from=R40&_sop=15

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      1. Pierr10 Moderator

        Hello,

        I doubt that an extractor would be suitable. From what I've seen, the smallest diameter is generally 3 mm.

        And the screws used for computer covers have a diameter well below 3 mm.

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      2. fabul Moderator
        @Pierr10

        Hello,

        It might be M2 or M2.5 but the head may be 4mm

        But if it's possible to drill in reverse rather than in the screwing direction.

        There are models with two bits, one for drilling in reverse and one for screwing in afterwards, also in reverse.

        It's supposed to be made for that, apparently.

        Otherwise, it might end up being done with a drill anyway.

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      3. fabul Moderator
        @fabul

        For glue, it's not crazy glue that works; it sets quickly but isn't very strong when it comes to adhering to metal. Instead, it would require yellow contact glue (for metal and ABS plastic) which should be left to dry for 30 minutes or more.

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    5. flo88 Contributor

      In the photo description, it's 2 mm for #0, and it's just an example; there are plenty of all kinds on Amazon, you have to search.

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