Ok - so all my parts arrived for the repair today. I received a brand new palm rest (which comes with keyboard installed) and I also ordered a new back cover for the bottom as the existing one had seen some abuse (was dirty and dented as I loaned it to someone).
Overall not a bad job - I followed the service and maintenance guide here: [link|https://h10032.www1.hp.com/ctg/Manual/c06271813.pdf|h10032.www1.hp.com/ctg/Manual/c06271813.pdf|new_window=true]
it's not difficult - it's just a little time consuming and you need to be methodical.. a quick summary of what I did;
# removed back cover from laptop
# unscrewed screen hinges and removed display cable
# followed the maintenance and service guide r.e. stripping down (i.e. removed battery, speakers, fingerprint reader, etc)
# starting installing the removed parts in reverse order (trackpad, speakers, motherboard etc)
# installed screen hinge (after slackening off half a turn each side)
# installed new back panel
#
thought I'd share some photos:
Replacement palmrest (front):
[image|3539696]
Replacement palmrest (back - showing brass inserts - these are the parts that break off and are a failure part of these laptops):
[image|3539695]
Rear of laptop with back cover removed (you can see the damaged hinge locations in the top right and top left):
[image|3539706]
Transferring parts over between old and new:
[image|3539705]
[image|3539704]
Job finished and reassembled:
[image|3539702]
[image|3539698]
[image|3539699]
[image|3539700]
[image|3539701]
[image|3539703]