eMac Fan Assembly Replacement

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.

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

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

Now, the shell can almost be separated from the computer.

Lift the housing enough to allow you to fit your hand through the access door, and disconnect the cable at the power button.

Now the entire shell can be removed from the computer.

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.

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

Now remove the following screws securing the fan assembly:

3x coarse thread phillips #2

1x machine thread phillips #2

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

You should now be able to remove the fan assembly.