Installing MacBook Unibody Model A1342 Right Clutch Hinge

Replace a broken right clutch hinge.

Keep your display opening smoothly by using this guide to replace a damaged clutch hinge.

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Add Note Edit Step 1 — Lower Case  ¶ 

  • Remove the eight 4 mm Phillips screws securing the lower case to the MacBook.

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Add Note Edit Step 2  ¶ 

  • The lower case is constructed of rubber-coated aluminum. Do not excessively bend the aluminum during removal, as any permanent deformation will cause tolerance issues after reassembly.

  • Slightly lift the lower case near the vent opening.

  • Continue running your fingers between the lower and upper cases until the upper case pops off its retaining clips.

  • The location of these three clips is shown in the third picture.

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Add Note Edit Step 3 — Battery  ¶ 

  • For precautionary purposes, we advise that you disconnect the battery connector from the logic board to avoid any electrical discharge. This step is optional and is not required.

  • Use the flat end of a spudger to lift the battery connector up out of its socket on the logic board.

  • It may be easier to use your fingernails to lift up on both sides of the connector.

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Add Note Edit Step 4 — Rear Vent  ¶ 

  • Remove the following screws from the optical drive side of the rear vent:

    • Two 10 mm T8 Torx

    • Two 5.2 mm Phillips

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Add Note Edit Step 5  ¶ 

  • Remove the following screws from the port side of rear vent:

    • Two 10 mm T8 Torx

    • Two 5.2 mm Phillips

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Add Note Edit Step 6  ¶ 

  • Carefully lift the rear vent out of the upper case.

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Add Note Edit Step 7 — Display  ¶ 

  • Remove the single 3 mm Phillips screw securing the AirPort/Bluetooth antenna ground strap to the rear speaker.

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Add Note Edit Step 8  ¶ 

  • Use the tip of a spudger to pry the AirPort and Bluetooth antenna connectors (3 total) up off the AirPort/Bluetooth card.

  • De-route the long antenna from its channel in the rear speaker housing.

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Required Tools

T8 Torx Security Bit Screwdriver

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Spudger

$2.95 · 50+ In stock

T6 Torx Screwdriver

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Phillips #00 Screwdriver

$4.95 · 50+ In stock

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