Adding expresscard slot to T61

I originally ordered my T61 with a PC card slot and SD card reader, but now I've realized that having an expresscard slot would be much more versatile since it would allow me to add external eSATA cards, USB 3.0 cards, etc.

I did some research and it seems like this is the part I need to buy to do the retrofit. I realize that it requires a lot of system disassembly, but that doesn't worry me since I've disassembled my Thinkapd down to the board before to re-apply thermal paste to the CPU/GPU.

42X3827 : IBM ORIGINAL LENOVO GENUINE THINKPAD LAPTOP NOTEBOOK T61 R61 R400 T400 PC CARD / EXPRESS CARD SLOTS : Same day shipping!

Is a special bezel or any other part required to swap out the media card reader for an expresscard slot?

 

Bump...anyone?

 

You might want to post over on ThinkPads.com about this. They're a bit more techy over there. I'd love to help, but it's been a while since I've seen a T61. My guess would be they're swappable. I'm not sure if it comes with the door if you care. For $10 it seem worth the risk.

 

Sounds possible: http://forum.notebookreview.com/lenovo-ibm/126114-t61-expresscard-media-card-reader.html

"Besides, I looked at the HMM, and to swap it the way you want, requires a disassembly down to the system board to pull it. No way you want to do that." -Sounds like the only real negative(Other than costs.) but you're familiar with the system and are willing to do it.

 

it is possible but it would require you to do some major disassembly of the system as mentioned by 'aboutthreefitty'.