Can I replace my GeForce3 fan?

[Pundit]

The fan seems to not be working properly. As in it is spinning slowly. So instead of buying a new video card, I'd like to replace the fan. Where do I find one?

 

[jiffylube1024]

you can either RMA the card to the manufacturer (if it's still under warranty) or just buy a third-party fan like the Thermaltake Crystal Orb (which is specifically made for the GF2/3 chipsets).

 

[petrek]

I was just looking into overclocking the thing for my new system and I remembered that the person I borrowed it to last week (thought he had a problem with his video card and wanted to use mine to check it out) said the fan was spinning slowly or not at all. When I took it out just now to look at it, and tried spinning the fan, I noticed it was extremely stiff. Is there a way to just use some lubricant (wd 40) on it so it spins freely. Perhaps an article. It's a GF3 Ti200.

Thanks
Dave

Edit: Easy 10 min fix (for Visiontek GF3 Ti200 card anyway)

-once graphics card is out of system, disconnect the fans power cord (prevents possible ripping out of wires when removing fan)

-use needlenose pliers (I used the pliers in my Swiss Army Champ knife) and remove the fan. Easiest way is to "attack" it from between the fan blades. Do it carefully or you will bust the clips that are keeping the fan in the heatsink (I lost 2 of them-although it still clipped in with no problems)

-remove the sticker on the bottom of the fan (carfully, you will likely want to replace it-although you probably could just put some scotch tape over the hole after your done)

-put a drop of 3in1 oil from the rusty 20year old can in the garage onto a piece of paper

-use a needle (or other small object) and feed it slowly (into the hole you uncovered by removing the sticker) until the fan turns smoothly again. Wipe away any excess oil that may not have gone into the hole.

-replace the sticker on the bottom, replace the fan on the heatsink, plug the fan back in

-start computer

-download registry hack for Ti200

-increase core clock to 220, and memory clock to 500

-admire work

D