t61p "t" key faulty...

Hey all, I purchased my T61p summer of 2007. I did not notice it much at first, but my "t" key would sometimes not register. The key would often not register if I am typing fast or if I press it at a certain angle/spot.

It's been getting on my nerves recently due to all the papers I have to write. Furthermore, after using my friend's T61, who bought it the same time I bought mine, I realized how much better his keyboard felt compared to mine.

I'm wondering if I would be able to get a replacement kb from Lenovo, and if not, which keyboard part model should I be looking for on ebay to get the best kb.

Thanks for any suggestions.

EDIT:
Is there a way I can check which keyboard part model/manufacturer that I currently have without opening the laptop?
That way, I can avoid the model/manufacturer that I'm currently using.

I did not purchase any extra warranty. Only stock manufacturer factory warranty.

 

If it's out of warranty they won't offer replacement for you.

The part no. should be listed in the email/invoice/configuration when you bought it (though it's actually very easy to open the case and get the keyboard out to see part no.). It's probably just a problem with that particular keyboard and not a general problem with the manufacture.

 

You'll have to open it up anyways if you're going to replace the keyboard, so why not open it now? If you don't know how, look up the Hardware Maintenance Manual on Lenovo's website ( www.lenovo.com) under "Support," "User's Guides and Manuals"

 

Ok...I've figured out the FRU model number for the keyboard.

I have the ALPS 42T3209 model kb.

I do know how to open up the laptop. I've done it twice before to clean out the dust and replace stock thermal grease with some Arctic Silver 5. It's just inconvenient for me to do it now while in college.

I want to order a new kb now and have it ship to my home, so it'll be there when I get back.

My warranty expired 09-16-2008...so there is no way I can talk them into replacing the keyboard? I've noticed this problem before but simply ignored it.

It's just recently gotten on my nerves because of all the papers I have to write, and the fact that after using my friend's kb, I want the same model as his.

 

Have your tried popping off the key and re-seating the key?

 

is that safe to do without damaging effects?
I know full size desktop keyboards can do that...not sure about notebooks.

So I can just use my fingernails and pop off that key?

 

I removed the key and replaced it (reseat)...however I only removed the key itself. I didn't remove the "springy plastic" or white hinge underneath...not sure how to.

 

On ThinkPads, you can pop off the key safely. I am not sure about other brand notebooks.

Did that help your keyboard problem?

 

well...i popped out the key and did some cleaning
don't really notice a better response though...

It may be an issue with the electric signal contacts
when i have time i'll take an exacto knife to cut open the rubber and cover the contacts with foil paper...which may help (definitely works for failing remote controls)