Help with CPU retention bracket

[u/Jealous_Lion3022]

Before I bring this to a repair shop, I wanna see if anyone has a solution to my problem.

Im currently trying to build a pc. I’ve got the CPU in, the ram, and the ssd. Now comes time to install the fan for the cpu. I’m using the cooler that came with my cpu(amd ryzen 5 5500). These screws don’t want to come off, and I’ve tried everything I can think of. Mind u I’m using the right screwdriver (Phillip 2) and I’ve tried the rubber band method and everything. I’ve gotten two out (even getting these out took a bit of time too), but the most stubborn screws are the ones that are still on the mount. No matter what I do, nothing works, and it’s to the point where I see hella shavings. Every time I turn it counterclockwise it just makes this pop sound but nothing actually happens. I’m really confused because the two I took off were able to come off (with difficulty) but the other two are being really stubborn and I’m honestly just debating on whether I should just have someone build the whole pc. I wanted to build it myself but I’ve been stuck on this the whole night and I don’t see any solution.

[u/normal_joseph]

Those stock AMD wraith coolers can be a nightmare with the screws, especially if the backplate shifted a tiny bit during shipping. the pop sound you're hearing is likely the screwdriver camming out because the heads are already partially stripped from the shavings you mentioned.

try pushing down firmly on the cooler bracket itself while you turn the screwdriver, sometimes the tension from the spring screws binds them up if there's no downward pressure. if that doesn't work and the heads are toast, a pair of needle nose pliers grabbing the outer edge of the screw can usually break them loose, you just need to order a replacement screw kit after.

[u/SirKnightThomas]

For some reason, phillips screwdrivers and screws come in a variety of shapes. Some come to a strong point, some have a dull/thick point, some are more rounded, and more. So while you might have the right size, you probably have the wrong shape, and the way those are stripping would further confirm this. If you've got a parent, grandparent, or friend with a good tool collection, see if they will let you borrow some of their phillips screwdrivers and make sure they're different shapes.

[u/tqlla3k]

Those screws look done. I would put the other two screws back in, and use a cooler that mounts to those attachments. IE, this wraith prism cooler, but you

https://www.ebay.com/itm/267379072526

or this replica on Amazon if you want it faster.

https://www.amazon.com/Lighting-Connector-Aluminum-4-13-Inch-Pre-Applied/dp/B07N2M4BZ8

When installing the wraith prism, you dont need to use those two extra cables in the box.

[u/Sleij3r]

Oooof, those screws are shot af! The "pop" sound is probably your screwdriver rising up and then "popping" down on the screw while shaving another bit out. You might be able to find a torx head that fits that or if it gets really close, put a rubberband in between screw and the head, remember to push down and twist it with force. If that fails you will have to go to a shop and ask if they can machine the screwheads off or then just get a another CPU cooler that fits on the regular AMD coolersetting.

[u/SuchWatch]

The screw heads are mangled. I've never had any issue with those screws, they usually come out quite easily. I wonder if this is a cautionary tale on why you should never use power tools to assemble PCs.

Back to the problem at hand. If these particular screws are really that soft you should be able to carefully carve a standard slotted screwdriver groove into the the head of the screw with a mini hacksaw.

Another option would be to see if you could break or grind down the plastic around the the head of the screw, and then try to back the screw out with some pliers.