Hard disk malfunction, what's the next step?

Question

After I upgraded to Tiger version 10.4.9, my PB would boot more slowly each time, but would eventually make it to the desktop. Thinking it was software related, I ran Applejack, which said the directory was corrupt. In another discussion topic, I was advised to run Disk Warrior with the 'C' key depressed, and this turned up a "disk malfunction" that prevented the disk directory from being rebuilt or replaced. The good thing is the data is still there...at least, last I saw.
I then connected a firewire cable, hooking the sick PB to a healthy PB, put the ill PB into target mode and tried to grab the files I needed. While I was doing that, the sick PB froze. I tried again, froze again.
I was advised then to try Data Rescue, which I did and nothing happens. Never boots the bootable CD and never runs anything.
Now when I try to boot up the ill PB, it takes forever to get to the desktop or never gets there at all. It twice (not in a row) beeped once, then flashed the sleep light, started up but nothing happened. Mostly, it never sounds the startup chime, seems to start up with the bolt running, but never makes it to the desktop. Connecting the firewire gets it into target mode using 'T' but the drive never shows up on the healthy PB.
Judging from what you've heard, can you confirm it's a hardware problem? And if yes, what must I do now since there is no Apple store in Greece and I'm a frustrated American journalist who needs to desperately retrieve the data inside since I believe my last backup was 3 months ago (I know, I know, my bad!).
Anything else I should check? Any suggestions I can try myself? I'm obviously not an expert, so if this involves something like swapping out the hard drive, I'll likely need to call someone since that sounds scary.
Thank you in advance to anyone who can offer me input.

Answer 1

Hi Kat,
Almost certain it's a hardware issue (actually sounds like two: based on scrambled directory, first is HD, but then it won't boot/run properly from a utilities disc, which sounds like maybe logic board or RAM). My next move would be to take the HD out and try it in an external enclosure. If at any point, trying anything, you are able to access, don't try getting everything on the HD; start with the most important files and go from there.
Removing the HD really isn't that big of a deal; skilled person maybe 10 minutes, first-timer who can follow step by step instructions and can use a screw driver (actually it's a Torx bit, different shape head than a screwdriver), maybe 30-40 minutes. Directions are right in your manual, or at ifixit.com, or in Apple's support area:
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=95131