T41 HDD cover missing

[vwbmw]

I'm considering a local 14" T41 (2379) purchase, but the cover (+ its screw) for the HDD bay is missing. (I think it's OEM part# 13N5530, Google: $25?) Are there less costly (used) sources for that part? And is that cover crucial to the secure seating of the HDD? ..i.e., should I be concerned that the HDD contacts or mobo soldering has been affected by flexing due to lack of HDD cover?

[Johan]

These 14.1" HDD covers are very easy to find (and very cheap too!) on eBay, as opposed to their 15" counterparts, which are by far harder to find and also quite a bit more expensive. And, yes, you do need this part - don't go without it! Try look on eBay for the 14.1" HDD coves/screws - see e.g. this for only $4.80 which I found from this search.

Subsequent update: You didn't mention it above, but in the case you don't already have a HDD caddy, then you'll also need such one; the HDD is mounted in the caddy, the HDD cover is mounted on the caddy and the total assy is slided into the HDD bay, and locked by, yes, correct, the screw, and then taa-daah! you're finally all set to go! So, a complete 14" T41 caddy-cover-screw set may be found for around $6 (incl. shipping) places like this.

Johan

[vwbmw]

Thanks, Johan..
I've relayed that info to the seller, since I'm not yet the buyer.