You'll need to consult the manual for your laptop. I know HP provides complete disassembly instruction manuals on their site. I know Gateway offers nothing. I don't know about other manufacturers.
Can you provide us with more details on your computer and error? Perhaps that isn't the solutions. Also, are you still under warranty?
Sounds like someone is overheating. Well, as long as the plastic doesn't melt ^_^. Anyway, it could be dust, or a cooling fan could have died. Best get that checked out.