What is needed to install a new HD?

[spook2517]

I have been through quite a few post on this board and still have a few questions about upgrading to a new hard drive. For the most part it is just about installing. Any info would be appreciated, as I have seen conflicting info all around the internet.

First I am looking to do a clean install and will reload everything I need. My model Macbook Pro is from late 2008 (15"). I have the original restore CD and a thumb drive with Lion on it. Also I have an external enclosure that I can use to format my new drive.

So I guess my real questions are...
-Can I format my drive and throw it in my Macbook, then just run the CD or thumb drive?
-Do I need to run a special software to clone the HD I already have?
-Am I making this more complicated than it needs to be?

Thanks Apple Community!

 

[simsaladimbamba]

MacBook, MacBook Pro: Replacing the Hard Disk Drive, transferring data to the new HDD​

How to format a new HDD/SSD to install Mac OS X or make a bootable copy onto​

1. See second guide
2. See first guide
3. See both guides

 

[spook2517]

Wow, probably the two guides I didn't read. Thanks!