Attempting to install OS on new SSD

[cantthinkofanamerightnow]

I have installed a new, compatible (supposedly) SSD in my 2010 MacBook Pro. Disk Utility seems to recognize the SSD.

However, when I attempt to use the built-in Restore feature (it defaults to downloading OSX Lion), it gives me the following messages: "To download and restore Mac OSX, your computer's eligibility will be verified with Apple"

Then, after clicking "Continue":

"Could not write installation information to disk. Contact AppleCare"...I tried to get help on Apple Support forums, but over an hour has elapsed, without a response. This MacBook Pro is one of my registered devices.

Is it possible to install a newer OS to this computer, either using the Restore feature, a CD/DVD, or USB drive?

I used my other, newer MacBook Air to download OSX El Capitan from the App Store last night, but I cannot find the file (allthough the App Store say's it's downloaded), in order to copy it to a USB.

Any suggestions, before I take the computer to my local Apple Store?

 

[Weaselboy]

Your Mac is a bit unique. It was one that I think shipped with Snow Leopard, then you could update later to Lion with your AppleID. That also updated the firmware to give you Internet recovery. So I think you will need the AppleID used for that initial Lion download to get Lion.

But a better option since you have the MB Air, is just use that to make a USB installer. You should see the El Capitan installer in your /Applications folder.

https://www.macworld.com/article/29...le-os-x-10-11-el-capitan-installer-drive.html

Just follow this to make the installer. Then on the old MacBook option key boot to your USB key and erase the new disk then install.