Video Card fan, disconnect or replace?

[kw3276]

I've got a Visiontek GeForce2 with the stock HSF, whick is built into the heat sink. it's making a lot of noise and I'd like like to replace it, but the thought of ripping the HS off scares me a bit. I can't find an article anywhere, so I was hoping for your opinion.

Will the chip overheat if I discnnect the fan? Is it that hard to remove the heat sink? Which one should I buy? Thanks.

Kevin

 

[kw3276]

I guess I should clarify that the noise is an intermittant sound, like the fan is making contact with the restof the assembly.

I've discovered how to remove the old HS with a can of compressed air, but would something like a Crystal Orb be louder?

 

[sohcrates]

I would not run w/out a fan...the fan is pretty important

try this: peel off the fan sticker, and put a drop of oil in , then replace the sticker.

it might help quiet the fan.

otherwise, you *should* be able to replace the fan w/out taking off the heatsink, no? usually, the fan is just screwed into the heatsink and can be replaced that way.

 

[Brian48]

GO HERE for a written step-by-step on how to remove the heatsink. It's easy.

 

[FlowerMan]

How to remove epoxied HSFs
http://www.hardforum.com/showthread.php?s=19ea37d06abb76092ffefa42876d991d&threadid=137579&highlight=FAQ

http://www.voidyourwarranty.net/review/review.php3?r1=diy/vidcardcooling/index.php3

You will most likely damage the card if you unplug the fan and do not replace it. I suggest you remove the old HSF and replace it with something simple and cheap like the Tt Blue Orb or Crystal Orb. They mount with spring loaded pins and thermal compound.

 

[kw3276]

Thanks guys, I appreciate the help. only one of the links seemed to work, but it had enough info. Thanks!

I grabbed a Crystal Orb earlier today and hopefully it won't be too loud.

Again, thanks for the help guys.

 

[FlowerMan]

Both work for me...