Vostro 1400 - base assembly cover replacement

note: please see post #6

How are you supposed to replace the base assembly cover (part # JX273) on a Vostro 1400? The service manual doesn't have a section dedicated to it.

Do I have to take apart most of the laptop (system board, etc.) to do this? Or is it as easy as detaching the old cover from the bottom and replacing it with the new one?

Original thread: link

 

there are four screws holding the screen hinge to the bottom of the notebook. 2 on the side of the notebook, 2 on the bottom. Once those are off, you should just be able to remove the other screws and the bottom should pop off nicely.

 

This will require a complete system disassembly. The systemboard is attached to the base assembly. The following link will give you a step by step for getting down to the base assembly: http://www.support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/ins1420/en/SM/sysbd.htm#wp1106487

 

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A lot of the steps described seem pointless. Why would I need to remove the CPU or its cooling assembly? Can those parts not remain attached to the system board?

Also: the Dell-provided system board removal instructions are illogical. An earlier step describes having to remove a system component (e.g. WLAN card), the procedure of which includes removing the keyboard. Yet several steps later, you are instructed to, again, remove the keyboard. I'm guessing this is a side-effect of linking to generic, standalone instructions per system component.