HDD Flash Drive

Description
I really want to build a high-quality, well hacked DIY HDD Flash Drive. Basically I will convert an old dead harddrive into an 'SSD'. I must admit, this is more of a form over function thing - is is going to be something where I improve my hacking-stuff-together skills, and result in a pretty cool conversation piece. I was inspired by this Make video, with this accompanying in the Makezine magazine from June 2009. I think it is easily possible to replicate, if not improve, what was shown there.

Goal

 * Gut out an existing HDD
 * Remove the motor from the HDD
 * Fit comfortably a USB Hub with 4 X 32 GB USB flash drives
 * Make it look very clean and professional
 * Use the molex pins with a DIY adapter for USB output

Obstacle
A list of known obstacles:
 * The motor doesn't want to get out
 * The parts are pricey by themselves, so I'll have to buy in bulk

A list of potential obstacles:
 * Making all 4 USB flash drives work as a single one under both Mac and pc
 * Getting desired data throughput using molex pins

Components
Have
 * Old HDD
 * Spare Molex and USB cable
 * USB Hub

Don't have
 * 4 x High speed 32GB flash drives
 * Drilling skills

Schedule
I want to be done with this ASAP, as this project has already been waiting for an über long time. If I can get the motor out somehow, half the task would be done and I wouldn't need to make a wiki entry which basically begs for a dremel.

Participant

 * User:Sasha