Lenovo Legion Y520-15IKBN Heatsink Replacement

Introduction

This is the comprehensive guide for replacing the heatsink in your Lenovo Legion Y520-15IKBN laptop. If you're encountering issues such as overheating, throttling, or system instability, a malfunctioning heatsink could be the culprit. Follow this step-by-step guide to effectively replace the heatsink and restore optimal thermal performance to your device.

The heatsink plays a critical role in dissipating heat generated by your laptop's internal components, ensuring they operate within safe temperature thresholds. Over time, factors such as dust accumulation or thermal paste degradation can impede the heatsinks effectiveness, leading to thermal issues.

Before initiating the replacement process outlined in this guide, it's advisable to conduct a thorough inspection of your laptop's cooling system. Clear any visible dust or debris from the heatsink and fan assembly using compressed air or a soft brush. Additionally, monitor your system's temperatures and performance to confirm that the heatsink is indeed the source of the problem.

Please note that replacing the heatsink involves disassembling your laptop and may require handling sensitive components.

Before commencing the replacement process, ensure your laptop is powered off, disconnected from any external power sources, and the battery is removed or disconnected from the motherboard. Additionally, take anti-static precautions such as using an anti-static wristband and mat to prevent damage to electronic components. When you replace your heatsink it's a good idea to also replace the thermal paste to keep your system cool.

What you need

Step 1 Base Panel

Lenovo Legion Y520-15IKBN Heatsink Replacement, Base Panel: step 1, image 1 of 2

Lenovo Legion Y520-15IKBN Heatsink Replacement, Base Panel: step 1, image 2 of 2

Shut down and unplug your device before proceeding.
Remove the thirteen 6.5 mm screws from the base plate using a Phillips #00 screwdriver.

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Step 2

Flip the laptop on its side and wedge a spudger between the base panel and chassis, then pry around the perimeter until the base panel releases.
To get a better grip you may want to open the laptop slightly.
Lift the bottom panel off of the chassis.
During reassembly, make sure that the bottom panel clicks back into place on all four sides of the laptop.

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Step 3 Fan

Lenovo Legion Y520-15IKBN Heatsink Replacement, Fan: step 3, image 1 of 3

Lenovo Legion Y520-15IKBN Heatsink Replacement, Fan: step 3, image 2 of 3

Lenovo Legion Y520-15IKBN Heatsink Replacement, Fan: step 3, image 3 of 3

There is a piece of plastic covering part of the RAM and the fan. You will need to remove this to get to the fan.
Unplug the battery then, you will need to remove the four 4 mm screws around the fan using a Phillips #00 screwdriver.

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