New SSD only detected with bootable SSD, but dissapears

Hi all,

I was getting the flashing question mark/ folder recently, so I decided to change the SSD drive. I bought one, and the adapter off amazon, and have installed it.

I know I’ve got to create a bootable USB, and I did create a bootable Mojave.

When I use the bootable Mojave USB, I can detect the drive, and even install Mojave on it. Great.

The problem is that when I unplug the USB, and try to restart the computer, it can never detect the drive again, until I plug in the Mojave USB.

If I don’t have the USB in, I get the flashing folder.

I’ve tried to hold OPTION when starting without the USB, and the new SSD isn’t there also.

Im at my wits end with this one, so any help is greatly appreciated.

Thanks!