Could you use your current PS3 hard drive in a new PS3?

[misskitten]

I've mentioned that I'm having issues with my PS3, the disc drive is having ejection problems, and I'm worried that this could disrupt games down the line. I would really like to get a new PS3, but I do not want to lose my downloads, installs, etc. And buying another PS3 with a larger hard drive is pretty expensive still, so I just wanted to hear if it's possible to say buy a new 12Gb PS3 and transfer my current PS3's hard drive to it and keep my content?

 

[the8thark]

I did a quick internet search and came up with this:
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/how-to-upgrade-your-playstation-3-hard-drive/1100-6176090/

So the answer to your question is yes. As long as the HDDs are the same size. 2.5 inch SATA (basic notebook HDD) I believe but best to check before you start doing this. And I would go 7200 RPM also (but 5400 RPM would work as well but not as well obviously.) If I was you I'd just buy a new HDD and put it in your existing PS3. No need to buy a new PS3 for this. Cheaper to get a bigger HDD on it's own I think. Just pick your favourite brand of HDD. No need to get a Sony one.
And I would look up some better how to guides before you start this too.

[edit] I think I misunderstood you. But I see the problem now. it's with the optical drive. And yes you can do what you want. It might be cheaper/easier than a new optical drive.