NUC Cannot loosen m.2 screw

[SDono1]

The m.2 screw has been put on too tight in manufacture and can't be removed to install m.2 drive. This is the second one that I have had trouble with of 15 units. The first took ages struggle to remove it. This one refuses to budge. Obviously a problem in the manufacture process. What to do to get this thing out?

[LeonWaksman]

Hello @SDono1​ ,

I don't know what is your NUC model. I suggest that you will remove M.2 Standoff screw (see the attached image), together with the M.2 screw. While you will have the M.2 standoff and the screw outside of NUC, it will be much easier to remove the screw from its standoff.

Leon

[SDono1]

Thank you Leon.

The model is NUC7i7BNH

It is not that screw that you have shown, which comes in the separate plastic bag.

Per the instruction for installing 80mm M.2 SSD, this model has two screw threads one in the middle and one at the wall of the box. The one at the wall (marked "A" in the installation diagram) already has a screw inserted.

It is that screw that I cannot remove.

[LeonWaksman]

Yes, you can remove this screw. The standoff screws in position A and B are the same, except that in position A there is a holding screw screwed into the standoff. You may use a pliers to holding the standoff in position A and unscrew it in counterclockwise direction to remove it from the board. Once removed, it will be much easier to separate the screw from its standoff.

Leon

Edit:

Since I've NUC7i7DNHE ( where I have removed the standoff screw) , however I don't have NUC7i7BNH, where the screw could be other, be careful. Can you attach an image of the board in your NUC?

OK i saw in Internet this board. You are right this is an other mechanical solution. Please disregard my advice.

[SDono1]

No, I cannot remove the screw. It is stuck in the hole and will not budge. Thanks for your interest anyway.

[n_scott_pearson]

I usually use a pair of needle-nose pliers to hold standoff and then use a screw driver - one appropriately-sized for this screw head - to remove it. I like Leon's idea; removing it completely may make this easier.

I will add that I have *never* had a problem removing this screw (and I have worked with *every* model of the NUC). What's most important is to have an appropriately-sized screw driver. Too big and you will strip it regularly...

Hope this helps (and no insult intended),

...S

[SDono1]

Scott,

Thank you, but it is not that screw. There is no way to get any purchase on this screw with pliers (i have tried) because it is a round head.

[n_scott_pearson]

The pliers are not for the screw, they're for the standoff.

[n_scott_pearson]

One additional comment: do not install the "B" standoff if your M.2 SSD is long enough that it reaches the "A" standoff.

[hiresh]

I have the same problem to tight. did u find a solution