new-b here. Do I need lion OS X on my app account to recover.

[albino5150]

So hello all.
I am new to the whole Mac world. I have an Iphone 5 which has lead me to purchase a used macbook. I do not know what year it is as it had been unoperational for about 6-7 months and I think I just forgot.
Here is the issue;
It is froze on the gray boot screen (apple logo, spinning boot wheel) common problem I understand.
I am able to get into recovery mode and Lion seems to be the OS. Original OS on the mac I am not sure as it is used.
By the way it did work when I bought it.
So I took it in to a certified repair store an they were able to get it running. I have considered doing that again but the cost has doubled. If i can fix it for the cost of purchasing Lion OS on my app account I would do that.
I am kind of pressed for time and before I send it off with "a guy who can fix it" I want to attempt my self.
I have Mt. Lion on a thumb drive that was purchased for me by a friend thourgh their account as we were unable to find lion in the app store.
Can I use the Mt. Lion to bypass the need for lion?
Can Some one please help me with compassion for a New-B who is trying to get started in the Mac world.
Make me a believer.

 

[rabidz7]

Stick the usb in, hold alt, hit power button, keep alt held, double click the usb, install.
And next time take it to an unauthorized repair store.

 

[albino5150]

So I have since discovered it is an '06 and am wondering if it will be comparable with the mt. Lion upgrade I have researched and received mixed answers, yes it has the capacity and no the processor can't handle

 

[tag]

So I have since discovered it is an '06 and am wondering if it will be comparable with the mt. Lion upgrade I have researched and received mixed answers, yes it has the capacity and no the processor can't handle

No, the Mountain Lion installer will not work on a 2006 MacBook. According to the specs page ML will only install onto a MacBook that is Late 2008 Aluminum, or Early 2009 or newer.

 

[albino5150]

So I am basically stuck having to buy the lion on my account with another Mac and try it that way?

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Would unlocking the recovery HD be a way around having to purchase?