iBook G3 emits burning smell

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Level 2

483 points

iBook G3 emits burning smell

I'm working on an iBook G3 500MHz. When it starts up, it emits a strong smell, like something in it is burning or baking. The smell gradually lessens, but even an hour later is noticeable. I've noticed this before in iBooks of this vintage; I think I saw some discussion of it, years ago, but don't remember where. It does smell like something I'd rather not be breathing, but I don't know if it's anything serious regarding the iBook's condition.

Does anyone have any idea what this smell is, if it's anything to worry about?

iBook G3 500MHz, Mac OS X (10.4.11)

Posted on Sep 28, 2009 8:24 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Ronda Wilson

Level 8

42,656 points

Sep 28, 2009 1:00 PM in response to HandyMac

If it really smells like it's burning, I would certainly be concerned that something actually IS burning in it.

If it smells like something else (which you're too polite to talk about here), check out this ancient thread (now archived so replies are not allowed, but still interesting):

http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=207887

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Answer 2

HandyMac Author

Level 2

483 points

Sep 28, 2009 2:08 PM in response to Ronda Wilson

Thanks, Ronda, for the response. The referenced thread is certainly amusing, though I haven't read it all. I did get far enough to encounter the keyboard label adhesive theory, which I'd also found via a link offered by someone on another forum:

A Stinky Old iBook that Smells Like Sweat
http://lowendmac.com/menagh/06/1013.html

That seems to be it. This iBook has been in a drawer unused for a couple of years; apparently starting it up again caused a sudden flush of outgassing. It doesn't seem to smell so bad now. Well, nice to know what it is anyway. As it happens, I have a replacement keyboard for this model, which doesn't seem to smell (or very little); but it doesn't seem like I'll need it this time.

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Answer 3

Sep 28, 2009 3:11 PM in response to HandyMac

Well, it sounds like you're lucky that it doesn't smell worse! 😉

Glad to have been able to help.

You're welcome.

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