Delete key came loose

Question

Level 1

2 points

Delete key came loose

Hi,
I just received my new MCP 15", and when I opened the screen for the first time, the delete key was loose. It has a metal pin that fits into two slots on either side of the base, and when I push on it firmly the bottom snaps in, but if I push the key off center (especially at the bottom), it comes loose again.
I called Apple and they said after much delay that it was probably a manufacturing defect, and that I should return it. Does anyone know if perhaps there is a way to repair it right here at home? I hate to think that I have to return it right after I got it, if someone knows a way to perhaps repair it more easily. Thanks

Aluminum MacBook Pro 15", Mac OS X (10.5.7)

Posted on Jun 3, 2009 5:15 PM

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Answer 1

LukeD

Level 4

3,144 points

Jun 3, 2009 6:29 PM in response to chashood4

I have noted a thread that may provide some assistance.

http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=1819277&start=30&tstart=0

However, I think that your best bet is to have Apple put it back on correctly. The process, based on the thread that I have noted, is free and fairly quick. Is there an Apple Store in your area?

Message was edited by: LukeD

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Answer 2

LukeD

Level 4

3,144 points

Jun 3, 2009 6:43 PM in response to LukeD

As an alternative to the Apple Store, I have noted a link for you to find your local Apple Authorized Service Provider.

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1434

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Answer 3

chashood4 Author

Level 1

2 points

Jun 3, 2009 8:34 PM in response to LukeD

Thanks Luke.
It seems to be a lost cause. But I appreciate your help. So much for great quality out of the box.

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Answer 4

ali brown

Level 7

26,493 points

Jun 4, 2009 7:42 AM in response to chashood4

Hi chashood4!

If there is an Apple Store available to you, make an appointment at the Genius Bar.

Who knows, they may even give you a replacement Mac.

ali b

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Answer 5

cameronw

Level 1

26 points

Aug 14, 2009 7:08 PM in response to ali brown

FIXING A SNAPPED OFF (NOT BROKEN) KEY
Hi -
This assumes nothing is broken- This worked for the Delete key on a Macbook Pro.
On back of the key there was a white plastic scissor-like hinge mechanism. If you flip it over and study it carefully, you will see that the top part comes off the back of the key itself by pulling straight upwards towards you, and the bottom part slides out vertically with respect to the key (four connection points, one in each corner). After carefully separating the plastic scissor hinge, and keeping it intact (the two "Halves" are connected by two small points in the middle), you will see how to re-attach it to the computer itself. There are four metal hooks on the computer - re-attach the scissor mechanism by sliding the bottom half onto the repective hooks, and gently wiggling /easing / squeezing the top two points onto theirs.
Once you have the scissor mech. back in place, take the key itself and reverse the scissor removal process listed above; i.e. slide the bottom part of the key itself vertically onto the bottom clips, and then, after lining it up so it is top dead center in its place, push down the top part gently until you hear two magnificent clicks!

Hope this helps someone!

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Answer 6

chashood4 Author

Level 1

2 points

Nov 8, 2009 2:02 PM in response to chashood4

THanks

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Answer 7

rabotat

Level 1

4 points

Nov 8, 2009 2:59 PM in response to cameronw

wow, your instructions should be in a manual. gr8 help and i actually managed put it back without breaking anything and besides got to see how the minutest detail is put together in Mac - quite incredible....

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