The method I've used very successfully for unknown packs is: 1) I first mount the pack in a drive that has a good absolute filter, and has had the head load disabled, and spin it for a few hours. If the pack shows any sign of excessive vibration, it is probably no good or requires more serious attention. This process moves a bunch of air through the pack, removing any loose dust. 2) I then take the pack apart, in a relatively dust-free space. Inspect the platter for any obvious damage that may make it unusable, such as warping, mis-centered on hub (caused by being dropped), divots in the platter surface or signs of serious head crash(e.g., oxide gone). I set the platter assembly on a lint-free cloth and cover with another lint free cloth. 3) I first use a vacuum cleaner with a light brush attachment to vacuum loose dust out of the pack case. Then I use a sink with a sprayer head and warm soapy water to thoroughly clean the plastic parts of the disk pack, and rinse thoroughly with clear water. I use dried compressed air to blow out all the moisture, and then set the pack parts aside on a lint-free cloth to dry out thoroughly, usually for 24 hours 4) I use 3M LCD monitor cleaning pads (which are lint-free by nature) to wipe the platter surfaces to remove excess oxide and remaining dust. I use a light pressure. Any areas that are clearly discolored get extra treatment. I wipe in a circular (spiral) motion from the hub outward to the edge of the platters. It's a little tedious from a handling perspective, juggling the platter with one hand, and managing the wiping with the other. I end up using quite a few of the wipes, as they get dirty pretty fast. 5) I use a bright flashlight to spot any remaining dust and canned air to dislodge any that I find. If air doesn't work, then I use more wipes to remove any that I can see. 6) Once over with canned air to blow off any remaining dust. 7) Quickly reassemble the patter into the pack casing 8) Spin the pack again for a few hours with no head load. 9) Cross fingers, put in a "live" drive, spin it up, and hope for no bad noises.
Based on Klemens' method, this is probably being overly cautious, but it's worked well for me. Rick Bensene
