Unhappy F3Jp - what to do

I've had my F3Jp for a year now but since coming back from Iraq its really unhappy.

I have searched but struggling to work the new search tool - cannot specify the Asus forum.

Does not power down properly when idling (so always runs until battery dies)
Strange 'dead' screen area in middle when restarted - resolved by adjusting brightness.
Seems to run really hot and fan always going
Can make strange noises when attempting to play films - like its struggling to run them and stutters.
very full hard drive - considering buying new 320gb hd instead of the 120gb (I have a 40gb of itunes!) is this easy to do?
Seems to run slowly - prolly ties in with heat!

I was considering updating bios (presently on 207) and then wiping it and starting again with all the latest drivers (assuming the ones from Asus site)

Is there anything else I should do - should I risk taking it apart to see if there is crud inside? Where can I find a guide on this?

Help appreciated.

 

Great guide on cooling your system.

Can't really say much about the other issues.

 

Just the type of stuff I'm looking for - will do this tomorrow.