It’s possible to strip a screw when opening a laptop from the back side, which can be frustrating.
However, you can use some helpful tricks to remove a stripped screw.
Laptop screws typically have small heads that require a specific screwdriver size.
If the laptop screws won’t unscrew, screw is overtightened or the screwdriver is the wrong size, the pilot can strip, making it difficult to turn the screw.
This can be a severe nuisance, especially when removing a stripped screw from a laptop.
For instance, you can use a rubber band or a stripped screw extractor tool to grip and turn the screw.
Alternatively, you can create a makeshift screwdriver with a small flat-head screwdriver and a rubber band.
If you’re having trouble removing tight screws from laptop hard drive caddies when swapping hard drives from one laptop to another, there are tricks you can use to loosen the screws without risking the hard drives.
For example, you can use a screwdriver with a better grip or apply some lubricant to the screws.
Another option is to heat the screws with a hairdryer to expand the metal and make them easier to turn.
1. Switch the Screwdriver’s Size
Try switching to a slightly larger screwdriver.
This may enable the screwdriver to grip the screw head more securely, allowing you to remove the screw.
2. Use Pliers
When using pliers to remove a screw, it’s essential to use a light grip to avoid causing additional damage or breaking the screw.
Choose the finest needle nose pliers you can find for the best results.
If a small portion of the screw head is exposed, try to grip the entire head with the pliers and turn it to the left to remove the screw.
This approach may require some patience and precision, but it can be an effective way to remove a stubborn or stripped screw.
3. Try a Rubber Band
To help remove a stripped screw, you can use a rubber band to fill the gaps and provide a better grip for your screwdriver.
Cut a piece of the rubber band with scissors and lay it flat on the screw head to create a surface that the screwdriver can grip more securely.
4. Drill It Out
To help remove a stripped screw, you can use a rubber band to fill the gaps and provide a better grip for your screwdriver.
Cut a rubber band piece and lay it flat on the screw head to create a surface that the screwdriver can grip more securely.
5. Superglue
Apply the glue in a manner that secures the screwdriver firmly onto the screw, and then wait for the glue to dry completely.
After the glue has dried, attempt to rotate the screwdriver while gently wiggling it to loosen any adhesive that may have adhered to the plastic body of the laptop.
6. Rotary tool
You can use a rotary tool to make a narrow cut in the stripped screw, creating an opening that allows you to use a flathead screwdriver to remove the screw.
7. Stick a piece of duct tape
Cover the stuck screw with duct tape, then insert your screwdriver into the screw and turn it counterclockwise until it begins to loosen up.
The duct tape may provide additional grip and help the screwdriver to turn the screw more effectively.
8. Tap the screw with a flathead screwdriver and hammer
To remove a stripped screw, position the tip of a flathead screwdriver onto the top of the screw.
Lightly tap at the end of the screwdriver’s handle 2-3 times with a hammer to help it grip into the screw head.
Once the screwdriver has dug into the screw head, attempt to turn the screw without lifting the screwdriver.
This approach may require some patience and finesse, but it can successfully remove a stripped screw.
9. friction drops
Friction drops are formulated with abrasive compounds that can help your screwdriver to grip a stripped screw more easily.
10. Drill into the screw with SOFTHAND
Running a left-handed drill bit in the reverse direction can create a good grip by digging into the stripped screw.
11. Use a screw extractor
A screw extractor is a specialized drill bit that can cut into a stripped screw, enabling you to pull it out.
These bits have a cutting and biting end that can grip the metal and help you extract the screw.
12. Weld a nut onto the screw (if the screw is outside)
You can attach a nut to a wrench to get a better grip on a stripped screw. Use a nut with a diameter similar to that of the screw head.
Hold the nut against the top of the screw head and begin welding the bottom of the nut to attach it firmly.
This method can provide more leverage and help to remove the stripped screw more easily.
13. Use ScrewGrab
ScrewGrab is a gel that can enhance the friction between the screwdriver and a stripped screw head.
Applying a few drops of ScrewGrab into the screw opening can help improve the screwdriver’s grip, making it easier to remove the screw.
This approach can be beneficial when dealing with small and delicate screws, such as those found in computers or phones.
14. Spray Lubricant Onto The Screw
Using a spray-on lubricant, you can penetrate the stuck screw and loosen up any rust that may be causing it to be stuck.
Apply enough of the liquid to trickle down to the base of the screw, allowing it to penetrate and lubricate the area around the screw.
This can help to make it easier to remove the screw.
15. Try a Flat-Head Screwdriver (If The Screw Is Phillips)
The blade’s flat surface can offer increased contact with the screw head, giving you more leverage to turn the screw.
Why can’t loosen the screws?
A stripped screw head has been damaged, bored out, or worn down, making it difficult for the screwdriver or drill bit to obtain a secure grip.
As a result, it becomes a stuck screw that is difficult to remove.
Remember point
1. Avoid over-tightening the screws of the laptop.
2. Use a screwdriver with the same shape as the screw.
3. Refrain from using thread lockers on the screws.
Why is my screw turning but not coming out of a laptop?
The screw is probably turning without coming out due to stripped threads on either the screw or the laptop’s mating part.
This may have occurred due to the excessive tightening of the screw.
To extract the screw, you’ll need to apply pressure to pry it out while simultaneously turning it.
How to Remove a Tiny Screw With a Stripped Head In a Tight Spot
1. Experiment with screwdrivers of various head types.
2. Utilize a rubber band to enhance grip.
3. Consider using specialized screw-extracting pliers.
4. Create a notch on the screw head by using a rotary tool.
5. Apply super glue to the screw head for a temporary fix.
How do you remove a screw when the head is damaged?
To remove a stuck screw, select a drill bit that is marginally smaller than the screw head, attach it to the drill, and tighten it securely.
Next, ensure the training is in reverse mode and apply a steady amount of pressure onto the screw head.
Begin the drill, and as it bites into the screw head, there is a possibility that it will loosen and remove the screw.
Reasons for the screw keeps spinning but does not come out
If your laptop back panel screw keeps spinning but doesn’t come out, there could be two possible reasons:
A) The screw threads or the mating threads in the body are damaged, either in plastic or metal form.
B) The threads on the screw and mating threads in the body are intact, but the nut in the body threads is not prevented from rotating anymore.
The method of simultaneously prying upward and turning the screw anti-clockwise will work in both cases.
How to remove laptop screws without a screwdriver?
A screwdriver is a versatile tool that can be used for various tasks at home or in a workshop.
However, there are some tasks that a screwdriver may need to be more suitable for. So, what alternatives can you use?
A utility knife can be a good substitute for a screwdriver for many tasks.
The sharp blade can open cans and cut through cords and ropes.
In addition, the utility knife handle can be used to strike nails or loosen screws.
However, caution is essential when using a utility knife since the blade can be weak and sharp.
Moreover, the handle of a utility knife can also be used to open cans and bottles, but make sure to use the back of the handle as the front is designed for striking nails.
Conclusion
Removing a stripped screw from a laptop can be frustrating and time-consuming.
However, you can try several safe and easy methods to open the back cover.
In this guide, we’ll go over some of the best ways to remove stripped screws from laptops.