I bought two old IBM thinkpad laptops. The first one had hinges so stiff on it, they eventually broke loose breaking the laptop in 2 pieces.

Does anyone have any idea how I can avoid this happening to the second laptop?

... don't open it?

There are 'dry' lubricants, such as talc or graphite, but it sounds more like the plastic has become brittle with age etc.

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"... don't open it?"

ROTFLMAO

There is also molybdenumdisulfide which should be less messy than graphite.

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Actually, I've a (busted ass) 486 laptop with about the same problem, one corner has practically disintegrated from age/stress - possibly fibreglass tape or something similar would fix it (but it wouldn't be pretty)

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"talc or graphite,"

Under NO circumstances use graphite around your computer, OR molybdenumdisulfide.

IBM Thinkpads have METAL hinges, usually aluminum. Above lubricants would be BAD to hinges, not to mention your electronics. If you can remove the cover over the hinges, you can loosen the nuts. or put a tiny, little drop of oil on them. And I do mean tiny - the hinges are mounted inside the case and that is where the excess oil will go if too much is applied.

You may still be able to download the maintenance manual from ibm.com or lenovo.com to see how it comes apart.

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