[solved] How to convert fs from ext2 to ext3 on root partition?

Question

Hello there!
Edit: It seems that the plan works! apparently it worked for alleyoopster also on a mounted fs.
As the title says, I want to convert my fs on / from ext2 to ext3. After some research I think I know what
to do, but want to make sure that I don't mess anything up....
So here is the plan:
boot with an install disc and leave the root partition unmounted (I know that in theory the conversion should
work on a mounted fs, but it feels awkward to me and I want to avoid it....).
Then use the
tune2fs -j /dev/xxx
command (the defaults for the forced checks are ok with me). Then reboot with the CD still in place, but use
this time root=/dev/xxx. Then I can change my /etc/fstab (ext3 should have been able to be mounted as ext2 at
the moment). Finally I have to rebuild my initrd image with
mkinitcpio -p kernel26
Then I should be able to boot into my system. And now the question: Can anyone verify that this is a valid approach
and will work? Or knows a better way to do it?
I'm grateful for any input
Last edited by alafanky (2007-11-26 15:41:35)

Answer 1

Have a look at the man for tune2fs and mkinitcpio
man tune2fs
man mkinitcpio
I am looking at doing the same and as far as I can figure out it goes like this, BUT this is not a proven method just what I am thinking of doing, Maybe someone else can correct or add to this or confirm that it will work.
1. Add journal parameter like this:
tune2fs -j /dev/sda1
2. Change the partition type from ext2 to ext3 in /etc/fstab
3. For a standard  kernel re-create ramdisk with preset parameters (no good for custom kernel)
mkinitcpio -p kernel26
As the system is mounted it will create the journal inode in the top level, don't delete this, it will get hidden into the filesystem on reboot.
Let me know if you make some progress. I may get brave and try it later.
So in answer, yes pretty much the same but I think you can do it with the fs mounted.
Last edited by alleyoopster (2007-11-26 12:44:29)