Replacing a failed JFL92 DVD drive?

Hi Everyone!

About two years ago, I purchased a JFL92 from XoticPC. Recently, the DVD drive failed. The computer is still under warranty, but I'm having trouble getting an RMA from them because the sticker with the serial number has worn off the bottom of the machine.

I'm still in talks with them, but it's slow going, as we only get about one e-mail back-and-forth per day. I have a feeling that without a serial number, they are going to tell me that they can't help me (the last e-mail was something to the effect of "Are you SURE you can't read the serial number?" and I've already given them my best guess as to what serial number is).

So, I'd like to start looking at other options in case they tell me they can't help me. I've heard people say on this forum that replacing a notebook DVD drive is not particularly difficult, but I'm not sure where I would purchase a replacement, and I'm not sure if there are any other pitfalls I need to avoid.

Does anyone have any advice in this regard?

Thanks very much for your help.

ETA - I wanted to edit this to clarify that this is not a grievance with XoticPC. They've been very professional and helpful, and I certainly don't hold them accountable for the serial number being unreadable. If they tell me that they can't do the repairs under warranty, however, I'm guessing that fixing the drive myself will likely be cheaper, and that's why I'm looking for assistance.

 

get one off ebay.. should not cost more then 30 dollar and replacing the dvd drive is very easy (only take out 2 screws at the bottom and its done...).

Look for:

Optiarc AD-7530B

Or: Comal ifl90 (or ifl91 or jfl92 (all the same drive)) dvd drive...

 

Any slim pata dvd drive will work.

 

Thank you both for your help!