How to dismantle the Y?

Anyone have any ideas how to dismantle the Y series notebook? More specifically, how to gain access to the LCD panel? More specifically... I'd like to know the model and detailed specs of the LCD (pins, etc.) to hopefully experiment with replacing the panel with a better quality screen.

 

Alright well i've figured out there are tiny screws behind the 4 rubber nubs on each corner of the screen. Removing those screws allows you to unsnap the top half of the LCD bezel... but I can't access the lower half because it's blocked by the hinges. Any ideas? Do I have to dismantle the whole chasis to access the hinges?

 

Almost. I don't think anybody has disassembled the Y to that degree, or at least not posted about it here. Here is a guide for doing it on the VAIO F. The Y should be similar. Replace the XXX with m-o-n-t-e-v-e-r-d-e (without the dashes) to form the correct URL.

http://www.XXX.org/images/Sony_Vaio_F11/Vaio_F_Series_LCD_Display_Replacement.htm

 

Interesting! I thought plastic panel on top of the keyboard would snap off as well (like in the link suggests), but it all looks like one solid piece of plastic.

The other night I ended up unscrewing everything on the bottom and I was able to pop the keyboard right off... however, I couldn't get the actual chassis to separate from its base.

 

Yeah, I see that now. Looking at the power button from the side on the F and Y, I see a seam in the plastic surrounding the button on the F that isn't there on the Y. The whole top surface of the Y will have to come off as one piece. Once you've removed all the screws, you'll have to figure out the arrangement of clips. Sorry I probably can't help further, as I've not disassembled my Y that far.

What screen do you think might be compatible?

 

Know where I can find a service manual for the Y? Does Sony sell them directly?

As for screen compatibilities, my theory is that the soon-to-be-released SA series screen capable of 1600 x 900 resolution will be compatible. It's the same size and both are LED backlit... the only question remaining is if it uses the same 40-pin connector. I am guessing it will.

 

There are no official service manuals Sony wouldn't sell one - that's consider confidential!

 

Received confirmation that it's a 40-pin standard connector for the LCD.

 

I doubt it will fit. The CES pictures show a significantly thicker screen.