Framework Laptop 12 Fan Replacement

ID: 186451

Description: This guide shows how to replace or clean the...

Steps:

  1. Before you begin repairs, unplug your laptop and shut it down from the operating system. This ensures that the laptop isn't in standby/suspend mode.
  2. The indicator LEDs along the edges should be unlit. The laptop should be silent.
  3. If you accidentally turn on the laptop during repair, hold the power button down for 10 seconds to shut it down.
  4. Make sure your Framework Screwdriver has the T5 Torx bit (labeled as T-5) facing outwards. If it's not, pull the bit out and flip it.
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  5. Set your Framework Laptop face-down on a clean work surface.
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  6. Use your Framework Screwdriver to fully loosen the eight captive T5 Torx screws on the bottom of your laptop.
  7. Most screws in your Framework Laptop (including these) are captive—they're designed to stay in place after you loosen them.
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  8. Flip your laptop over so it's face-up on your work surface.
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  9. Open the laptop lid so that both the screen and the base lie flat on your work surface.
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  10. Use your fingers to grip the Input Cover in the hinge cutouts.
  11. Lift upwards to swing the Input Cover up from the base of the laptop.
  12. Magnets hold the Input Cover down, so you'll feel some resistance. If it feels stuck, check that you've fully loosened all the screws on the bottom of your laptop.
  13. Remove the Input Cover.
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  14. Use the flat end of your Framework Screwdriver to gently push on one of the fan connector's protruding edges, then the other, to loosen the connector out of its socket.
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  15. Use your fingers and your Framework Screwdriver to slide the fan connector out of its socket.
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  16. Use your Framework Screwdriver to loosen the two captive T5 Torx screws securing the fan.
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  17. Lift and remove the fan.
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  18. If your fan's dirty, this is a great opportunity to clean it! A clean fan will help your laptop stay cooler.
  19. Use a soft bristled brush or a clean toothbrush to gently scrub the fan blades and exhaust fins.
  20. Use a dust blower to blow away the dust from the fan.
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  21. Congratulations on completing disassembly! The remaining steps will show how to reassemble your Framework Laptop.
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  22. Lay the fan in the laptop.
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  23. Use your Framework Screwdriver to tighten the two captive T5 Torx screws to secure the fan.
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  24. Use your fingers to gently push the fan connector back into its socket.
  25. Don't push too hard, or you may break the socket. If you're having trouble, wiggle the connector slightly to help it slide into the socket.
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  26. Angle the bottom edge of the Input Cover towards the base of the laptop.
  27. Align and insert the bottom edge of the Input Cover into the base of the laptop.
  28. Make sure the slots along the bottom edge of the Input Cover slide into the tabs in the base.
  29. Lower the Input Cover's top edge onto the laptop until the magnets snap it in place.
  30. Make sure the Input Cover sits neatly within the laptop frame and no corners are popping up.
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  31. Close the laptop lid.
  32. Flip your laptop face-down on a clean work surface.
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  33. Use your Framework Screwdriver to tighten the eight captive T5 Torx screws on the bottom of your laptop.
  34. Tighten the screws until they're snug. Don't over-tighten them, or you may strip the screws.
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