I chose the method to not remove the front panel, propping up the front with a beverage can and rubber band. For heating the adhesive, I used a "gel heat pack" heated in the microwave. I placed the phone on the heat pack to warm the case. This is not the most ESD safe practice, since the pad is plastic. During adhesive removal, I broke both of the strips. I must not be patient. I used a plastic card to get the old battery out, with quite a bit of effort. Had to be careful not to put stress on the front harness. The old battery pack was slightly bent when I was done, but no smoke or fire, so that is good. I would recommend starting the repair with a battery that is almost fully drained to reduce the fire risk. Anyway, got it back together and after the hard boot, phone is fine, and THIS message is being sent via the phone's wireless hotspot, so things seem to be going well. By the way- back up your data before starting in case things don't go well and you need to get a new phone. REPAIR IS NOBLE!