Case Fan Screws

[coastertux]

Is there a trick to getting case fan screws to go in easily (they screw right into the plastic of the fan). I tried installing a new one and could not get the screws to go all the way in.

 

[Nebor]

Case fan screws are self threading, meaning their making tracks in the fan when you screw them in.

 

[MDE]

Yep, just keep screwing them in, they'll go in eventually.

 

[coastertux]

When I screw them though, they refuse to go in any further and they are not in all the way yet.

 

[lenjack]

my guess is you're using the wrong screws.

 

[fell8]

Originally posted by: lenjack
my guess is you're using the wrong screws.

Yup.

Chances are the holes are now stripped and you'll need to use a larger screw (self-tapping variety). Another possibility is you don't have the self-tapping variety, which are much more dificult to use in a tapping situation.

Personally I don't use self-tapping screws as I don't like how they chew-up the plastic. I use machine screws that are long enough to protrude slightly and secure them with flat washers and nuts.

Here's a tip to avoid cross-threading when reinstalling screws into previous threaded into materials: turn the screw counter-clockwise until the threads "click" into place. It should tighten easily after that (if it doesn't, you went too far and need to turn c-c until it "clicks" again)

 

[mobobuff]

Yes mine were a pain also with my 80mm LED Antec. Self-threading screws require patience so as not to strip the screws. Use a screwdriver with a head that fits snuggly into the screw taking up as much surface area of the contact as possible. It'll take plenty of elbow grease to get the screw in all the way.

Tip: When threading the rest of the holes, use a lighter flame to heat the threading of the screw and it should make its way in a little easier.