Use drive enclosures like this one. I just got one and like the zero tool design.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FCLG65U/

There are others but this is how I access dead laptop drives all too often.

The usual issues with such and old 17 inch laptop are legend. At close to 5 years old the laptop power jack is often in need of replacement but techs rarely can do that today. Clients have become too litigious.
Bob