New batteries for MBP Retina

My Problem

The batteries in my MBP had over 1100 cycles and were losing power. The computer was recommending replacement and it was getting to be fewer hours away from the charger.

My Fix

The batteries are held down with thin, strong double stick tape. It is very difficult to remove the batteries. After the new battery is installed it is necessary to leave the computer on the charger for about 10 minutes for the new batteries to be initialized so that they will charge, do not panic, I did.

My Advice

Use isopropyl alcohol squirted under the batteries to help dissolve the glue. Add the alcohol then wait 30 minutes for it to penetrate. Even with the alcohol the glue is challenging. I broke three spudgers, make sure to buy several of the strong black spudgers before starting. The two middle batteries are attached to a plate of metal that can be lifted out so the disassembly can proceed outside of the laptop.