eMac Fan Assembly Replacement

Written By: Chris Green

Comments: 3

Difficulty

Moderate

Steps

Time Required

15 - 30 minutes

Introduction

The fan assembly contains the AC jack, and must be removed to remove the motherboard.

Tools

Step 1

It should be noted that these guides are written based on a late-model eMac (2005, 1.42GHz, DDR). They will differ slightly from the older model eMacs that use PC-133 RAM.
Lay the eMac screen-down on a flat surface. I've found it convenient to use a carpeted floor because the computer is so heavy.
Remove the single phillips #2 screw on the RAM door, and remove the door
The screw is captive in the door, so don't worry about losing it.

carpet or towel is the way to go. don’t put on bare hardwood floor or table as you may scratch it

Duck -

Step 2

Before starting this process it's important to note that the eMac can have some seriously dangerous voltages inside of it, thanks to the CRT display. Before working on an eMac, you should unplug it, press the power button to clear any stored charge on the motherboard, and then let it sit for 24-hours (or more) to allow the CRT to discharge.
You can read more about CRT safety procedures here. If you aren't experienced with working on devices featuring a CRT, it's recommended that you don't proceed any further.
On the bottom side of the eMac, remove the following screws:
A single 2.5mm hex screw
Two #2 phillips screws

Step 3

Remove two 2.5mm hex screws from each of the other sides of the computer.

Step 4

Now, the shell can almost be separated from the computer.
There is a cable that connects to the power button. This must be disconnected before removing the housing completely.
Lift the housing enough to allow you to fit your hand through the access door, and disconnect the cable at the power button.

What happens if you pull the shell off before does couldn’t connecting the power button and completely rip the wires right out of the quick connect,, well that’s exactly what I did and I need to know how to fix it please thank you

Kolby Hughston -

Step 5

Now the entire shell can be removed from the computer.

Step 6

The motherboard access panel is held on by 4 phillips #2 screws.
Remove the screws, then use your fingers to pull on the top tabs to separate the panel from the computer frame.

Step 7

To remove the fan assembly, several cables must be disconnected first:
3-pin fan cable
Ground wire, requires phillips #2 screwdriver
2-pin AC cable to power supply

Step 8

Now remove the following screws securing the fan assembly:
3x coarse thread phillips #2
1x machine thread phillips #2

Step 9

There may be a zip tie holding another cable to the fan assembly, cut it to remove the fan assembly.

Step 10

You should now be able to remove the fan assembly.
Doing this will expose more of the CRT neck, be careful not to touch this area because it can contain high voltages (and is fragile)

Conclusion

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

Author

Chris Green

Member since: 11/10/09

36876 Reputation

One comment

Does anyone know the names of connectors for the fan? I would like to power one externally if possible.

Thanks :)

grantdavis - 18/02/21