[Information wanted] MacBook Pro 14", topcase swaps

[Rastafabi]

I want to swap the top case of a MacBook Pro 14" 2023 (M2 Max) - changing keyboard layout. According to ifixit the topcase is identical to the previous generation's one (2021, A2442). This makes me think I can just order a used one/broken MacBook and perform the surgery. Either way to minimize the effort I'd go for one with a working battery.

However according to Apples repair manual changing the topcase requieres a special system setup mode which according to my findings is only activated (based on the serial number), when ordering a part from apples self-service program.

Now I wonder whether I can perform the swap at all. Has anyone any experience? Thank you very much for insights!

 

[Rastafabi]

I want some further information after doing some more research. I also converted the first post to be a wiki post for future referencing.

The following information for know are only circumstantial and not validated!

• I realised, that the logic board apparently does not even know which keyboard it is connected to. It is only set via a hidden nvram variable, which can be user edited from Recovery mode. This I somewhat corroborated by the fact that, when trying to order a topcase via the Apple self-service program the actual keyboard layout needs to be specified manually, even though the part selection is already determined by the serial number.
• There are various places to order used replacement parts and non give a warning about any loss of functionality, which could be somewhat telling
• Even though part-paring is a thing, at least on iPhone you at least don't loose basic operability when, for instance changing a screen or the battery with used or aftermarket parts. At most you get a warning in system settings. That said there still could be some lost functionality like battery-health reporting or true-tone.

This lets me concluded, that at least for me it is worth a try, and I am willing to take the risk and report back... Heart of a tinkerer

 

[Sauve Mon Mac]

You can use M2 A2779 topcase with M1 A2442 topcase. But not the trackpad as the cable is different.
No need to perform a special setup with Apple.
Actually the Mac knows which keyboard layout you are connecting, as it will show the correct language in the MacOs setup screens