Resolved Al Powerbook 12inch terror! (or: How can i get off that topcase?)

[philgxxd]

Got a nice 12inch Powerbook with a dead harddrive but can't manage to get the topcase off.
I'm missing only one spot on the front.
I know the plastic clips pushing into the holes from the frame but it seems to be glued...maybe aluminium parts bounding together from a drop of water or moisture?

You can cleary see the sides come loose.
I think it has to come straight up so i also tried to hold the whole topcase by its sides and rock it a little bit and even pull but this spot is really stubborn.
Any ideas?
Maybe get a air ballon and try to apply pressure from under?

 

[eyoungren]

You've followed this guide: https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/PowerBook+G4+Aluminum+12-Inch+1-1.5+GHz+Upper+Case+Replacement/543 ?

Or this one for the 867: https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/PowerBook+G4+Aluminum+12-Inch+867+MHz+Upper+Case+Replacement/203 ?

 

[philgxxd]

The first one. It's the 1.33Ghz model.

 

[mectojic]

Have you removed the screws from the Ram slot, including that long black one? I don't think that would be the cause, but it's worth a shot.

 

[philgxxd]

Yes, i did that. Thanks to both of you for trying to help.

 

[philgxxd]

Looking at the service manual:

This is what it looks like on the left front side.
You can glimpse the two openings where you supposed to push the plastic stick into to free the plastic tabs.

Here you can see the plastic tabs from the right side from the battery compartment.

Can someone confirm there are the same plastic tabs on the left side?

 

[ervus]

Yes, those same plastic clips are also on the left. Sometimes it can help to lift the front edge first. Raising the rear edge (near the hinge) slightly increases the angle on the clips and makes them "bite" harder. If you have already raised the rear edge, try pressing it back into place and then try the front edge.

 

[philgxxd]

Yes, i thought of the same and began the process with the "problem" front left side first the second time i tried but still no dice...

 

[Certificate of Excellence]

Could the airport card be snagging something? If you haven't, why not take it out and see if that helps things release in that area? The tops are definitely fiddly and can take alot of patience to get on and off.

 

[philgxxd]

I just succeded in taking it off .
It finally ceased.
The way of lifting it up from the front was the way to go and i also took out the airport card before and would also recommend it. Thanks to all for the assistance.