i've got an 80GB 1Ghz PB that i bought about 3 years ago and am waiting until more apps become Universal (and they fix more than 50% of the MBP issues) to get a replacement. this particular model has been taken very good care of (no scratches, dings, or other marks at all) since it's the only computer i use for my home/office/etc. and it has served me very well. i know that there are people out there still using Pismos/Lombards and that gives me some relief, but i'm looking for an average life span for the aluminum PBs or what some of the symptoms to look for before it takes the inevitable dirt nap.