Many thanks to all !

I cleaned the old laser and then gave up and installed the new laser. I cannot believe that I did not destroy the entire transport in the process! LOL! At first the "new" transport did not want to read the disc - the motor would not spin - then it spun wildly - it was crazy. After several tries, it settled down and is now playing the CD. I am almost afraid to turn it off and on again. The entire experience was a female canine! LOL!!

Thanks again!