Apple MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2.53 GHz, Mid 2009) - Manual (Page 37)

Chapter 3 Boost Your MacBook Pro 37
Replacing the Hard Disk Drive
You can upgrade the hard disk drive in your MacBook Pro. When you open the back of
your MacBook Pro, the hard disk drive is located next to the built-in battery. 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:
1 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.
2 Turn over your MacBook Pro and remove the ten (10) screws that secure the bottom
case. Remove the shorter screws at the angles shown in the illustration. Lift off the case
and place it to the side.
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.