Got a OWC SSD to put in my MBP...

And 8GB of Ram also. @ problems: Could not get the back off the lappy in spite of ordering the full screwdriver kit. Seemed like I would strip the screws LONG before I ever even got ONE out.

Then, I put the Extreme Pro 6GB SSD in my desktop for testing purposes. The drive was stone dead 13 hours after performing perfectly for that amount of time.

In retrospect, I was glad that I could not get the back off. But Steve Jobs, FAIL FAIL FAIL regarding those screws. FAIL BIG TIME.

There is just no reason to force people to use blasting caps to remove a damn laptop back.

And also FAIL OWC (and they have been wonderful) for not putting a screwdriver that ACTUALLY fits in the tool kit. Sheesh, not an easy day

But I actually did have a point to this thread. Does anyone know ho to safely remove the back of an MBP? I have seen the youtube OWC videos but unless the screwdriver fits, it is not much help. Or, should I just take it to an Apple service center and have them do it?

 

Are you referring to the 'full screwdriver kit' they specify on sites like iFixit? What size were you trying to use? You need a Phillips #00 for the bottom panel screws, the drive retention bar, and a Torx T6 for the hard drive mounting lugs.

I've taken apart about a half dozen or so of the unibody MBPs and Macbooks, never had a problem with any of the screws.

 

Yes, I tried that #00 but it really did not fit the screws. It did not go in deep enough to get enough leverage to provide the necessary torque to turn the screw safely. It was the full set from OWC. Maybe a little is my first time nervousness at messing with a 1300 dollar machine. BUt I have done many other things with laptops but never one with screws this delicate. I like ROBUST. Not delicate. Ironically, the unibody construction was one big reason i bought this computer, because it was ROBUST

 

Some of the screws have green gluey gunk on them that make them VERY hard to get out. I know for mines I had 1 screw that would not come out no matter what I tried so I took out a precision power drill and got it off that way lol.

 

I've completely removed all of the guts from my MBP to replace the aluminum housing. I ran into a few stubborn screws like you mentioned. Not on the back cover though but elsewhere like on the hinge screws. They are in there VERY securley with loctite (the green gluey stuff).

I almost gave up until I came up with a simple idea. The solution was to try and apply enough downward force while being able to adequately supply enough torque to turn the driver:


have someone apply downward force ontop of the driver onto the screw... meanwhile you slowly turn the vice grips. Basically you are using this method same as you would a wrench or ratchet driver. works super easy and the screw comes out no problem.

 

Thanks for the tip. Vise grips rule all. I am going to put that in my bag of tricks.

 

Not sure what they have at OWC, but I got this set, although I think it was on sale for like $19 when I ordered mine.

 

that is a nice set and has the #000 Philips that mine is missing. They say these screws will work with #00 but I am not convinced. Even with my reading glasses on it still seems like a very poor fit. I may get a strong magnifier as well

 

I have a few other sets that are in my junk drawer now, before I got that set, along with one of those 'spudgers' from iFixit. The one I linked is really nice, because the swivel at the end has a nice, free movement, so I can bear down with one hand, while twisting with the other. So far I've not stripped any screws on my MBP, and I've taken it apart a few dozen times or so.

The #000 should work, although there's a little play with it. I have grabbed it a few times on accident and didn't realize it until after I'd used it. #00 should be dead on, but anything larger will probably end up stripping the head.

Here's a step-by-step guide for what you're looking to do. You didn't specify, but I'm guessing from the price you mentioned it's a 13".

 

thanks, I am going to try again when I get an SSD that works. I am going back to Intel for that for sure. That is a GREAT web site, thanks. I hope I never have to replace a right speaker

Almost reminds me of the old slot car days

And yes, 13 inch is quite correct.