Notebook 15-ay041wm HDD replacement with SSD

[HPnewbie02]

Hi: I just purchased the 15-ay041wm (Product X0H86UA) and I am trying to replace the 1TB HDD with a Samsung 850 EVO. I followed the instructions on the Maintenance & Service Guide pages 52-53 regarding removal of bottom cover. However, after removing all 11 Phillips PM2.5 screws (including the two under the rubber bumpers), I can't pry open the bottom cover from computer (or don't know how to). It seems like it is glued or that there may be other screws. Can't find video on Internet. Do I need any special tool or special trick to pry it open? I thank you in advance for your assitance.

[Huffer · Accepted solution]

Page 53 of the Manual here:

Service manual

4. Start prying at the front of the computer and work around to the back to separate the bottom cover from computer.

5. Remove the bottom cover.

The hard part is getting started and the other hard part is not marring the plastic. The two halves of the clamshell have a series of little plastic clips that snap together and you have to seaparate it somewhere and then gradually expand the split while not breaking anything or marking up the plastic. 

Start here at about 9:30. This shows removing a top cover not a bottom cover but thei idea is the same: watch how this guy starts the separation and works it around with a credit card:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ryYrCMvXBrk

I don't use a credit card but a spudger tool like cell phone repair guys use:

https://www.amazon.com/E-Durable-Professional-Non-Abrasive-Spudgers-Anti-Static/dp/B010DCQU7Q/ref=sr...

This is where the rubber meets the road and is the reason HP does not authorize end users to open it up. It takes a little experience and a bit of a touch and even a litle bit of courage. One you have done it two or three times, however, you will wonder why it was so hard. 

If this is "the Answer" please click "Accept as Solution" to help others find it. 

[HPnewbie02]

Thank you. The video helped.

[Signme001]

I have an HP 15-ay041wm Laptop.

I am wanting to upgrade to an SSD. DOes my laptop have an M.2 SSD Slot? Many Thanks for all you guys do!

[Huffer]

This post is about the same exact model and there is a manual and a video. Did you read and watch? Seems like your question should be answered by what is already there and I am not sure anything can be added. I try to be pretty thorough exactly so future users looking in will be able to get the answer from what is posted. But if you still have a question please start your own thread and we will be happy to reply.