I'm trying to change the IDE cable so I need to pull out the drive tray. I can't get any of the 4 screws on the sides to budge. Any ideas? I'm afraid if I use a power tool I'll strip them.

They are quite soft screws, so if you force them, they are quite likely to strip. Try putting some 3-in-1 oil (or equivalent) on them and wait a while and see if that'll loosen them up.

This may be obvious, but using the appropriately sized Phillips driver head really helps. Quite a few players have passed through our hands, and we have never had one we couldn't open with the right driver.

Stu

I went and picked up the right sized Phillip's screwdriver, a Craftsman of course, just the other day in preparation for my fan installation. It was $3. Always have the right tool for the job. Now for some heat-shrink tubing.

Paid product placement, eh?

Pray tell, how does one sign up for those things?
Do I just get into my Ford Explorer, turn on my Rio Empeg, and enjoy that Ford Smooth Ride (tm) to the advertising agency?

Paid product placement, eh?

Since I'm not sure what you're talking about... I have no idea whether or not to be offended.

Perhaps the Craftsman plug?

Stu

Will WD-40 work?

I'd be careful with a spray, since I don't know how any oil overspray might affect the empeg's electronics, but, in general, WD-40 is good for stuck bolts. As other folks said, though, make sure you've got the right screwdriver; there is more than one size of Phillips screwdriver.

Sorry if I offended you deadfire, but it did seem like you went pretty far out of your way for that craftsman plug. It almost sounded like some of the product placement in sporting events or the Truman Show.

It would be interesting if to get paid for randomly mentioning products in your internet posting. Believe it or not, there are companies that pay people to do things like that. Of course, I am not accusing you of that.

Gee golly, haven't you ever heard a joke?

-Biscuits

Back on topic, I would say your best bet is to simply try different sizes of screwdrivers. I found that the one I was using was slightly too small and wouldn't turn the head. By going up a tiny amount, I was able to twist the screws with ease.

I doubt if WD40 would do much here. There are also screw-removal tools out there, but I haven't seen them do much good. When I worked at a machine shop a while back, they issued everybody a couple screw removal thingies. None of us ever used them.

-Biscuits

There are also screw-removal tools out there

Like the Craftsman 3 pc. Screw-Out™ Damaged Screw Remover Set which can be yours for only $19.99 plus $5.95 S&H. But buy in the next ten minutes and we'll include this fantasic set of steak knives!

ROFL

I'll hold out until the last 5 minutes, when I'll probably get a Bowie thrown in too!