Framework Laptop 16" Graphics Module Fan Replacement

Written By: Alex Diaz-Kokaisl
  • Comments: 0
Framework Laptop 16" Graphics Module Fan Replacement

Difficulty

Easy

Steps

18

Time Required

15 - 20 minutes

Introduction

Use this guide to replace one or both of the graphics module fans in your Framework 16" laptop.

Note: the laptop used in this guide is a generic setup of one US keyboard, one numpad module, and two touchpad spacers. Your setup might vary, but the procedure should remain the same.

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    • Unplug all cables and fully shut down your laptop.

    • If your repair requires a spudger, a T5 Torx, or a Phillips screwdriver, you can use the included Framework screwdriver. Whichever works best for you!

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    • Use your fingernail to pull out the two Input Module latches and unlock them.

    • The latch will show red if it's unlocked.

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    • Use your fingers to slide the touchpad spacer toward the bottom edge of the laptop and unclip it.

    • If you're having trouble, check if the corresponding Input Module latch is properly unlocked.

    • Lift the touchpad spacer off the laptop and remove it.

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    • Repeat the same procedure for the other touchpad spacer.

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    • Use your fingers to slide the touchpad toward the bottom edge of the laptop and disconnect it.

    • If you're having trouble, check if the Input Module latches are properly unlocked.

    • Lift the touchpad and remove it.

    • During reassembly, perform the following:

    • Place the touchpad flat on its cutout so its clips are properly aligned.

    • Press the touchpad down and slide it into place so it lines up evenly with the bottom edge of the laptop.

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    • The keyboard is held in place with strong magnets. Apply gradually increasing force to avoid having the keyboard violently eject.

    • Grip the two pull tabs along the bottom of the keyboard.

    • Lift the pull tabs until the keyboard magnets release.

    • Remove the keyboard.

    • During reassembly, make sure the keyboard is seated properly on its alignment pegs and sits evenly with the edges of the laptop.

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    • The numpad is held in place with strong magnets. Apply gradually increasing force to avoid having the numpad violently eject.

    • Grip the pull tab at the bottom of the numpad.

    • Lift the pull tab until the numpad magnets release.

    • Remove the numpad.

    • During reassembly, make sure the numpad is seated properly on its alignment pegs and sits flush with the edges of the laptop.

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    • Lift the interposer door by its black pull tab and let it rest upright.

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    • If you have the graphics module installed, your interposer will have four screws. Otherwise, you'll have three screws.

    • Lift the pull tab on the interposer and let it rest vertically to access all of its screws.

    • Use a T5 Torx screwdriver to loosen the three captive screws securing the interposer.

    • If you have the graphics module, use a T5 Torx screwdriver to loosen the four captive screws securing the interposer.

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    • Lift the interposer by its pull tab and remove it.

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    • Use a T5 Torx screwdriver to loosen the two captive screws securing the expansion bay.

    • Close the interposer door before continuing.

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    • Close your laptop and flip it over.

    • Slide the expansion bay out of the laptop and remove it.

    • The bay should slide out easily. If you feel any resistance, check that the screws holding it in place are fully loosened.

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    • Flip over the graphics module so the fans are facing you.

    • Use a T5 Torx screwdriver to remove the four 3.6 mm‑long screws securing the graphics module cover:

    • Two screws on the flat surface of the module, next to the fans.

    • Two screws on the thin edge of the module, near the ends. You'll need to flip the module on its back edge to access them.

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    • Use your fingers to lift the graphics module cover off the expansion bay and remove it.

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    • Use the flat end of a spudger, or a clean fingernail, to lift up and release the locking tab on the fan ZIF connector.

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    • Use tweezers, or your fingers, to grip the brown pull tab and slide the fan cable straight out of its socket.

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    • Use a T5 Torx screwdriver to loosen the four captive screws securing the fan.

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    • Use one hand to press the fan cable flat to the module.

    • Use your other hand to pull the fan out of its housing, making sure to thread the cable though its slot.

    • Remove the fan.

Conclusion

To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.

Take your e-waste to an R2 or e-Stewards certified recycler.

Repair didn’t go as planned? Try some basic troubleshooting, or ask our Answers Community for help.

Author

Alex Diaz-Kokaisl

Member since: 16/01/22

117889 Reputation

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