ThinkPad T420 Hard Drive Replacement

ID: 78827

Description: If the hard drive in your ThinkPad T420 has...

Steps:

  1. Due to the EET missing several components present in the Pro Tech Go and only being $20 cheaper, the EET has been removed. The EET will work for this guide as-is, but if you are shopping for a new toolkit to complete this guide, the Pro Tech Go (new or refurbished, refurbished is ~$32 cheaper), or Pro Tech ($79 new/~$59.95 refurb) is the current recommended toolkit for this guide.
  2. If you are interested in a refurbished kit stock levels change frequently but can be found here.
  3. If completing a step like a clone of your old hard drive/SSD, DO NOT remove the battery until the process is complete!
  4. Unlock the latch locking the battery in the laptop.
  5. NOTE: To remove the battery, the tab must be held in to avoid having the lock reinitiate inside the laptop.
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  6. After unlocking the battery, remove the battery from the reverse way it is installed to remove it from the laptop.
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  7. If your build of the OS was installed years ago, you can clone the drive as shown here or reinstall from scratch. However, a reinstallation from scratch will likely be the better choice for older installations with excessive file buildup.
  8. Before replacing the drive, backup your personal files. This can be done by hand, or automated.
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  9. EET owners: Your kit has this bit. No purchase needed.
  10. Remove the hard drive door from the system. Use a Phillips #1 bit.
  11. Once the screw is loose, remove the drive cover as shown.
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  12. Pull the black tab on the drive caddy to remove the drive.
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  13. EET owners: Your kit has this bit. No purchase needed.
  14. Remove the hard drive bumpers.
  15. Remove the drive screws using a Phillips #1 screwdriver.
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  16. Remove the old hard drive from the laptop. If you intend to keep it, store it in a antistatic bag if possible.
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  17. Install your new drive using steps 6 through 3. Reinstall or reimage the operating system.
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  18. If you are installing Windows, use an official ISO or purchase OEM installation media without a product key.
  19. In order to save time setting up your system in the future, reinstall Windows from scratch and image the computer once all the drivers and updates are installed.
  20. After reassembling the system and confirming the new drive is recognized, reinstall your operating system.
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