Question : Problem: Water/juice spilt onto compaq notebook and now will not boot.

The machine was immediately switched off and dried out for 2 weeks.
Power gets to the machine judging by lights.
Screen is black.
What is the the chance of revival and where should I start?
I am capable of taking it apart.

Answer : Problem: Water/juice spilt onto compaq notebook and now will not boot.

Forgetaboutit!

Trust me; the juice corroded the electrical connections beyond repair.  What happens is the juice seeped up through the connections by a process called capillary action.

Though you think it is dry, it is not nor will be for years. Even if it did dry out (which it won't), the damage is done!

I am 99% certain about this. For the 1% left, I suggest you immerse your entire computer in an electrically inert compound like Stabilant 22a (http://www.stabilant.com/appnt01h.htm) or like product and hope that you dilute any corrosive compounds like the acid/sugar water that is juice.  But seriously unless you did that seconds after, it is too late now.

Finally see this if you want a "ray of hope"... but remember the cost of Stabilant might be too high to justify the low probability of repairing your laptop. Also, keep in mind that this application not is *not* referring to juice.
http://www.stabilant.com/appnt41h.htm

Shawn