Windows 7: Restoring an image from HDD to new SSD

So I recently bought an SSD which I need to RMA. I was able to create an image (using Win 7's built in tool) of the SSD which I restored to a HDD, no problems at all. When I get the RMA'ed SSD back, rather than a full re-install, I'd like to do the opposite...image the HDD and restore to the SSD.

My question is this: Do I need to do any special to create and align the partition of the re-installed SSD? My original install of Win 7 was on the SSD, and I've read that the OS is smart enough to set the proper partition alignment during install. But I'm not clear if it does automatically aligns the SSD's partition during an image restore. Thoughts?

Can you use the image you made of the SSD and successfully imaged to the HD to also reimage the replacement SSD?

Not sure until I receive the RMA'd SSD drive. Like I said, SDD > HDD reimage was easy.

Here's my ultimate question: Will Win 7 automatically adjust my partition offset to 1024 (suitable for SSDs) when I reimage my drive back from the HDD to SDD?

FYI, I did several tests with DISKPART and the Win 7 image restore overrode it. So that's why I'm skeptical that I can go from HDD > SSD easily and seamlessly.

My tests revealed that the image controls the future partition. But that doesn't sit well with me.

Bottom line is that I don't want to reinstall. I would like to preserve my current Windows installation. Thoughts?

As am I, due to alignment issues, which is why I suggest using original image SSD>SSD to have the best chance.

Keep us posted. Someone should know for sure.

I agree. Using the original Image from the SSD is best and would be my suggestion as well.

If you choose not to, in order to help avoid alignment issues, You will need to make a full disk Image. Not just partitons.

Just Image the Entire disk as is.

Unless Win7s imaging works differently, most will attempt to re-align if you restore just a partition and this is where troubles occur going from HD-->SSD

But, I am only really familiar with Acronis so Im really unsure how Win7s handles all of this.

You can get the full sector image in free Macrium Reflect, I believe, as well as free Paragon Backup & Recovery.

The option doesn't appear in Windows 7 backup imaging.

Thanks Gregrocker, my thoughts exactly. I'll check it out.

Thanks Wish, let me mull on this a bit but I think your reasoning is sound.

Grinch,
What is the size, ie, gigabytes of your IDE and your SSD?

My recommendation will be influenced by your answer.

I have done what you desire to do a couple of times.

Karl, I'll be going from smaller (HDD) to bigger (SSD).