www.deadharddrive.com

I would go to the local computer store and ask for all the old WD drives they have. I no longer match them up any more than visually (no part numbers other than the largest chip). This should give you ...

You don't need or want a small tip to solder this chip. Put a blob of solder that bridges the pins on one side and turn the heat all the way up on the iron. apply SLIGHT pressure to the chip with a to ...

Depending on the type of drive (not WD!) I have had some limited sucess with pressing the spindle out of the case. leaving the platters in place. older maxtors mostly

There is a 8 pin IC that has a part number starting with 25 that has to be swapped

I have a board here that you can try, for just the price of shipping. I would like your old drive after you get your data back as I have an old recovery laying around that need the heads from your dri ...