disk drive. It is a nice improvement over the 1541 in several ways. But one thing that has always annoyed me is the `springy thing' that kicks the disk out. Sometimes it kicks the disk out when you don't want it to. Other times it doesn't `catch', then the disk won't `seat' properly. So I decided to open up the drive and see if I could remove this little gremlin. After all, most other disk drives, like the Newtronics version of the 1541, and 5.25 inch drives on PC's don't use a disk ejector. Also, there is a nice big notch in the face plate of the 1571 to give you plenty of room to get a grip on the disk.
Well, I performed a successful tonsilectomy on my 1571. I liked it so much, that I performed the same operation on my 3 other 1571's, one of which is in my 128D. I have had no ill effects from this operation, and the aggravations that led to this decision are gone. Below is a close, but not quite exact scale picture of what the little bugger looks like, and step-by-step instructions in case you want to try it out for yourself.
Disclaimer: I can't and won't be responsible if you screw up and ruin your 1571. If you try it, you do it at your own risk!
Tools needed. Phillips screw driver
WARNING!: Static electricity is as harmful to your computer equipment as lightning is to you! Take precautions to prevent static electricity, preferably with a wrist strap. Also, turn off the drive, and unplug the power and serial cords.
1. Pull out Lever on front of drive (might be tight).
2. Remove 4 Phillips screws on bottom of drive.
3. Remove top cover of drive, lifting from the rear first.
4. Remove 3 screws holding down the cover over the drive mechanism.
5. Remove front cover of drive, being careful of wires to power and activity lights.
6. Remove the two screws that hold down the disk ejector, located on the right top of drive mechanism when facing the front of the drive.
7. Replace the two screws that held the disk ejector.
8. Replace the drive mechanism cover.
9. Replace front cover.
10. Replace top cover.
11. Replace 4 bottom screws.
12. Replace lever.
1571 Disk Ejector Removal
by Randy Harris - February 15, 1996
But one thing that has always annoyed me is the `springy thing' that kicks the disk out. Sometimes it kicks the disk out%
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