MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009) How to install a replacement hard drive.
Summary
Learn how to replace the hard drive in your MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009).
Products Affected
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009)
The hard disk drive is located next to the built-in battery when you open the back of your MacBook Pro. The replacement drive must be a 2.5-inch drive with a Serial ATA (SATA) connector.
To replace the hard disk drive in your MacBook Pro:
- Shut down your MacBook Pro. Disconnect the power adapter, Ethernet cable, USB cables, security lock, and any other cables connected to the MacBook Pro to prevent damaging the computer. Warning: The internal components of your MacBook Pro can be warm. If you have been using your MacBook Pro, wait 10 minutes after shutting down to let the internal components cool before continuing.
- Turn over your MacBook Pro and remove the ten (10) screws that secure the bottom case. Lift off the case and place it to the side.
Important: Because the screws are different lengths, note the screw lengths and locations so you can replace the screws correctly. Put them aside in a safe place.
Important: When you remove the bottom case, you expose sensitive internal components. Avoid touching anything other than the hard drive assembly when you remove or add a hard disk drive.
- Touch a metal surface inside the computer to discharge any static electricity from your body.
- Locate the bracket at the top of the drive. Use a Phillips screwdriver to loosen the two captive screws that hold the bracket in place. Put the bracket aside in a safe place.
- Using the pull tab, gently lift the drive out of the bay.
- Hold the drive by its sides and gently pull the connector on the right side of the drive to disconnect it.
The connector is attached to a cable and remains in the hard disk drive bay.
Important: There are four (4) mounting screws on the sides of your hard disk drive. If your replacement drive doesn’t include mounting screws, remove the ones from your old drive and mount them on the replacement drive before you install it.
- Attach the connector to the right side of the replacement drive.
- Insert the replacement drive at an angle, making sure the mounting screws are seated properly.
- Replace the bracket and tighten the screws.
- Replace the bottom case. Replace and tighten the ten screws you removed in step 2, making sure to put the different length screws in their proper locations.
Additional Information
You can also find the steps you need to perform to install your hard drive on Page 37 of your MacBook Pro User Guide. For information about installing Mac OS X and bundled applications, see "Reinstalling the Software That Came with Your MacBook Pro" on page 62.
If you do not have access to your User Guide, you can download a copy here.