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Acer Predator Helios 300, released 2018, identifiable by several model numbers. Most guides should apply to all models.

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screw heads worn out

I normally clean my laptop frequently, but this time, when I tried to open it for a cleanup, the screw heads were worn. The screws used to hold the HDD drive had worn out. How do I remove it so that I can replace it with new ones? I did try using a bigger screwdriver and using a rubber band for grip. Even tried with a tape. Is there any way around?

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1. Double-check screwdriver fit

  • These screws are PH0 or PH00 (tiny Phillips).
  • Using anything bigger/smaller makes stripping worse. If you’ve been using a standard screwdriver, switching to a precision driver might still catch enough to back it out.

2. Press-down & twist (with grip help)

  • Place the laptop flat so the screw head faces straight up.
  • Push down hard with the correct precision bit, then twist very slowly.
  • You can add grip by putting a thin rubber band over the screw (fresh one, not too thick). You said you tried this, but it works best when paired with the exact-size driver.

3. Needle-nose pliers (best if screw is slightly raised)

  • On the Predator Helios HDD bracket, screws usually sit proud (not fully flush).
  • Try locking onto the screw’s rim with pliers and turning counter-clockwise.

4. Cut a slot (safe-ish here)

  • If it’s too stripped, you can carefully cut a new groove with a mini file or Dremel disk (tape around the area first).
  • Then use a small flathead screwdriver to remove it.
  • This is easier on the HDD bracket screws than on chassis screws since the drive bay is open.
  • A micro extractor kit (like iFixit’s) will bite into the stripped screw and pull it right out without damaging the bay.
  • Since Predator Helios screws are soft, this usually works very quickly.

6. Last resort: drill out

  • If completely flush and nothing else works, use a 1mm–1.5mm drill bit to carefully drill the screw head until it separates.
  • The bracket will lift off, leaving the shaft exposed, which can then be removed with pliers.
  • Risky — only do this if you’re confident.

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I will try these and update on the same

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Abey Antony crwdns2934231:0crwdne2934231:0
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