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Released on July 21, 2011. Core i5 or Core i7 Processor. Thunderbolt. This unit is also used to run the Mac mini Server configuration.

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Heat Sink Cowling & Fan stuck together when removing.

I have been able to complete this task with no problems on other Mac minis of the same model, but I am perplexed by this.

When removing the top left T6 screw that secures the fan and heat sink cowling to the logic - on left in this picture: https://d3nevzfk7ii3be.cloudfront.net/ig... - I was unable to lift the fan on its own until I disconnected the cowling from the logic board so that I could lift them both together.

Block Image

Block Image

As I lifted them clear, a small spring popped out.

I am sure that I could replace the pair of them still coupled, but can anyone tell me how to separate them please? Is this a pair of screws (one screwed into the other)?

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Yes, I think the top screw is screwed into the insert screw that goes to the frame. Grab the bottom screw and turn the top screw until it comes out.

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Thanks. I had tried it already, but I'll give it another go now.

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Try not to grasp it by the threads.

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It's well and truly stuck. I am avoiding the threads, but I can't seem to get a good enough grip to stop the bottom screw turning in the jaws of the pliers. I suspect I could do it in a vice, but I think this would screw-up (pun intended) the threads.

I've got the parts back in the mini for now, so I hope I will not need to open it again for a while!

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You probably would need two of these: Screw Extracting Pliers

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@lorccan any luck getting that screw out, i'm in the same problem

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