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42162
June 22nd, 2013 03:00
Stripped screw head on XPS 15z (I/O Ports)
My XPS 15z has been opened a few times by Dell technicians, one of the screws behind the port I/O bezel (nearest to the left corner of the base) has become so stripped its almost circular! The other one is noticeably stripped but still is able to be removed (just), however the stripped screw head on the left means I can't get at it with a screwdriver. An image to demonstrate:
This isn't my actual XPS 15z, but the screw nearest the left is the one that's majorly stripped. (Unlike in this photo, where its very new)
I myself haven't opened up my XPS 15z until this point as I was going to install an SSD (I am comfortable with doing so, seeing it done several times), but I can't even get the base off because of this!
What advice is there in regards to getting this screw out? I'm not bothered about damaging the screw itself as I have the complete XPS 15z screw set as spare parts, my main concern is because this screw is so small its in a very fragile position near the I/O ports. I've tried the rubber band trick to try and get more leverage off the screwdriver but I think the head is so stripped its too late for that. I read about screw extractors, but the size of this screw might make those useless.
Anyone able to offer any advice? I'd really appreciate it!
Robin3
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June 22nd, 2013 04:00
Can't believe a qualified technician would put back a worn screw instead of replacing them!! Typical shoddy work from Dell. Anyway...is it possible to get a small allen (hex) key in there? Do you have access to a dremel tool which could be used to carefully cut a slot in the screw head?
James2k
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June 22nd, 2013 05:00
Its a common fact that the screws on the XPS 15z are very prone to it, I guess they just get run down real quick.
I haven't tried an Allen key but its a good idea I'll see if I've got a size that could work.
I don't have access to a dremel, though I know its common technique, but I'd probably leave it as a last resort. I'm just a bit wary of doing that as its right near the I/O ports, I'd certainly probably get someone qualified with those types of tools to do it.
Robin3
807 Posts
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June 22nd, 2013 05:00
If you do go down the Dremel route, may I suggest you first cover all the ports with masking tape. Last thing you need are metal shavings getting in. If there is any sort of flat within the nearly rounded screwhead then try placing a slotted screwdriver on the flat and "gently" tap it with a hammer. Sometimes if the screw isn't too tight it can be possible to turn it using this method. Good luck!
James2k
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278 Posts
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June 22nd, 2013 06:00
A good point well made, I'll be sure to cover the ports if do go down the dremel path!
I will see what I can do, otherwise I might get a professional to advice me on getting it out. Like I said, i can damage the screw as I have spares, but the fact of where it is means I have to be very careful i.e. damaging the ports, bezel frame etc