Does doing this sound like a good idea?

[Ultimecia]

You can use a program to recover your windows serial number, then have a friend to lend a install disc, and then you use your old key and everyone's happy
http://www.aboutonlinetips.com/how-to-re...duct-keys/

A seagate HD is around $50 to $70 at ebay, some with free shipping.
http://cgi.ebay.com/New-Seagate-Barracud...27b7e36707
A buy it now, $60, free shipping. 1.5 Tera.