Advice needed - screw not tightening all the way down

[danielv2000]

I just upgraded my fan in my laptop.  I was extremely careful in marking and photographing every screw that was removed.

In reinstalling one part with 2 screws, I now have a situation where one screw does not screw in all the way down.  I have a second identical screw that behaves the same way but only in one of the 2 holes.  Both screws secure perfectly in the other hole.

I've tried ignoring it but I felt a vibration as the part was not held down properly.  

Should I just get a shorter screw that won't screw in all the way down but at least secure the part down?  Can I shave the existing screw.  I have no idea where to find such a small screw!

Thank you

[PeteM]

Personally first thing I'd do is screw it in with some red loctite... Or any thread adhesive

 

but that's me ;)

[freddy333]

It sounds like you installed 1 of the screws that fit into that shallow hole into another hole. I would back-track your work to locate a short screw you put into a deep hole or check with a local computer store (or your laptop vendor) for a replacement screw.

[danielv2000]

Pete, Freddy

thanks.  any chance I messed up the threading?

[kernow]

Unlikely you cross threaded the screw. As has already been said, you probably mixed up some of the screws as its bottoming out in a blind hole. Either dismantle again and find the shorter screw, or carefully file the offending one down a little until if fits. There again, I'd just go to a computer repairer and find a short screw there!

[danielv2000]

Unlikely you cross threaded the screw. As has already been said, you probably mixed up some of the screws as its bottoming out in a blind hole. Either dismantle again and find the shorter screw, or carefully file the offending one down a little until if fits. There again, I'd just go to a computer repairer and find a short screw there!

Thanks!