Replacing Panel on 17" PB

[SMM]

I gave my 17" PB to my nephew for college. Now there is a large crack on the screen. My brother took it to the Apple store and discovered the cost to replace it would buy a new MB. That is a smarter choice of course. But, I cannot bring myself to throw this lovely lady in the garbage.

Has anyone ever replaced a panel? I have done this a handful of times at work (Toshiba, Dell, HP and Compaq). But, it was infrequent and several years ago. I would appreciate any guidance from someone 'who has been there' might share. Is there a superior source for Apple repair components?

Thanks

 

[aquajet]

Just about any do-it-yourself mac-specific parts outlet are going to charge an exorbitant amount for a replacement panel. There are more generic parts outlets which sell OEM parts for quite a bit less, but you'll need to determine the actual manufacturer part number. I've always sourced parts from ebay, either the part itself or a parts machine. But depending upon the part, you might have to play the waiting game.

I've replaced a few iBook screens, a G3 PowerBook screen and a 12" G4 PowerBook screen. Never touched a 17" though. Just follow the directions in the take-apart manual (ifixit has some good guides, or you could use an Apple Service manual), use the proper tools that haven't been worn out (i.e. don't use a #00 phillips with a chewed-up head) and keep yourself organized. Take your time, thouroughly label each screw and note its location, use a clean workspace with plenty of room, and double check all cable connections during reassembly. Since you have prior experience, I'm sure you'll do ok.

 

[SMM]

Just about any do-it-yourself mac-specific parts outlet are going to charge an exorbitant amount for a replacement panel. There are more generic parts outlets which sell OEM parts for quite a bit less, but you'll need to determine the actual manufacturer part number. I've always sourced parts from ebay, either the part itself or a parts machine. But depending upon the part, you might have to play the waiting game.

I've replaced a few iBook screens, a G3 PowerBook screen and a 12" G4 PowerBook screen. Never touched a 17" though. Just follow the directions in the take-apart manual (ifixit has some good guides, or you could use an Apple Service manual), use the proper tools that haven't been worn out (i.e. don't use a #00 phillips with a chewed-up head) and keep yourself organized. Take your time, thouroughly label each screw and note its location, use a clean workspace with plenty of room, and double check all cable connections during reassembly. Since you have prior experience, I'm sure you'll do ok.

Thanks for the info and encouragement!

 

[PDE]

start out by checking the panel model using res switch, then head over to ifixit to get a sense of what's involved. Also, perhaps you can check your local craigslist for an Apple techie who'd be able to help you out for a fee. In NYC there are several who advertise their services.

Good luck!

 

[mikehokie]

start out by checking the panel model using res switch, then head over to ifixit to get a sense of what's involved. Also, perhaps you can check your local craigslist for an Apple techie who'd be able to help you out for a fee. In NYC there are several who advertise their services.

Good luck!

It would be faster and probably cheaper just to get a new better computer with the MacBook being a good example.

 

[SMM]

It would be faster and probably cheaper just to get a new better computer with the MacBook being a good example.

You are correct, and that is what the parents are going to do for my nephew. I just cannot bring myself to toss the PB in the garbage. It is still a beautiful machine (I always take care of my things).

I have no need for the PB. The reason I originally gave it to my nephew is because it was just sitting in the bag. I have a 17" MBP and a MB too. I would rather drop a few hundred, replace the panel, and donate the computer. It deserves a more fitting end than the garbage.

 

[bartelby]

Can you not plug in an external monitor and use it in clamshell mode?

A nice, very slim desktop.


EDIT: Sorry I Mattscotted the post and didn't read the last bit.

Have a look at an ifixit guide and see if you think you can do it.