Repairing a laptop - Where to get tips?

[RayB]

So I have this HP laptop with a wonky power socket. ( read this: http://www.howtofixcomputers.com/bb/ftopic73146.html )

So being a BYOAC'er, I know how to resolder a plug component, so I removed every screw, removed battery, HD and other removable parts, and then... Well, seems like I can't get the case off. It comes up except still seems attached where the DVD drive is. I can't figure out how to remove the DVD drive.

Anyone have any tips on a site I can refer to with disassembly instructions?

The laptop is an HP Pavillion zv5000
(And yes, it's no longer under warranty. Bought it 14 months ago.)

~Ray B.

[romperwomb]

This might help:

http://www.madmastersmachines.com/HPnotebookrepair.html

Hope your model is similar enough to go by it...and that you don't have extra screws left over when you get it back together!   

[NinjaEpisode]

Rayb, download the service manual here:

http://h10032.www1.hp.com/ctg/Manual/c00212209.pdf

Page 5-16 titled Combinatin Drive, should show you, with pictures, what you need to do.

[RayB]

Thanks to both of you.

Ninja: That PDF was exactly what I needed!!

[NinjaEpisode]

You're welcome.  Glad to be of service!  Especially before we start seeing all kinds of crazy responses on how to remedy your situation. 

[xar256]

Dremel Tool...Nuff said.   

Xar256

[RayB]

Thanks again Ninja. I managed to get at the motherboard and re-soldered the power jack. Seems to work now. And I only have 3 spare screws left over!