BleepingComputer.com: I need help replacing the CD drive in my Packard Bell Multimedia

I got a Packard Bell Multimedia 4x4 desktop for $10 from craigslist yesterday. I need to replace the CD-Rom drive because it is problematic. It doesn't want to read cds and won't open some times. I opened the case and attempted to remove it to no avail. I removed the screw on top of the drive and one on the side. Then I disconnected all the cables. But it simply wouldn't budge. How do I get the drive out so I can replace it? Does anyone have experience with this machine?

This post has been edited by Sega Dude: 01 February 2012 - 09:24 PM

Most CD drives are held on by two screws on one side, though some manufacturers screw them in on both sides of the cd cage, which would require you to remove both side panels of the desktop, and depending on the style of case, you may have to remove the front panel as well. Im not finding that computer in a google image search (I can usually figure it out with pictures) you sure you have the model number right, your not missing any model numbers are you? if so post them and I may be able to be of further assistance.

the_patriot11, on 01 February 2012 - 09:39 PM, said:

The model number is a940-4x4. It looks like this:



Let me know if you need more info or pics of the inside.

ooooh, one of thooose. Been awhile since I worked on one, age of the dinosaurs. Seems to me the entire front of the case with the trays should lift up and forward giving you access to the side screws-can you provide a picture of the inside of the case from various angles?

the_patriot11, on 02 February 2012 - 08:48 PM, said:

Here you go. I took these with my phone so let me know if you need better pictures.

Try removing that center rod in the middle, and seeing if you can lift the cage up. If not, try and remove the front panel, it should be held in by plastic clips.

the_patriot11, on 03 February 2012 - 07:39 PM, said:

Sorry I took so long to reply, I've been busy. The screw towards the front of the case next to the floppy drive won't unscrew. It won't budge no matter how hard I try to make it turn.

try a bigger screwdriver, but that may not be the solution-the front panel should be held on by plastic clips, or screws-you may have to look in from the back of the case towards the front to see where they are at, and remove the front panel. There should either be a way of removing the panel, or of lifting the cage from the back tilting it up towards the front-you may have to remove both side panels.

This post has been edited by the_patriot11: 06 February 2012 - 08:53 PM