Ti4400 fan - problem developing - advice please

[Cruachan]

Hi,Just recently my 3D Blaster4 Ti4400 GPU fan has developed an intermittent but regular ticking noise as if it was running in a loose bearing. At times this can be quite loud and distracting but, so far, has tended to quiten down if the system is left on for an extended period during the day. Can these devices be serviced? I imagine all I can do is attempt to apply some lubrication to see whether it will help. If so, how do I go about it?If lubrication does not help, is it possible to purchase a replacement unit? Or, are there better fans on the market for the Ti4400, bearing in mind that I have a 4 port USB 2.0 Adapter covering the PCI slot adjacent to the AGP slot?I don't indulge in overclocking....yet!Thanks in anticipation.Mike :-wave

[Guest ccgr]

The fans are replaceable, it may take some tinkering though. However I have seen chipset fan replacement kits. That should cover the video card fan. It's not an uncommon problem actually. If you have an old 486 heatsink and fan, than can do the trick too.

[W2DR]

This would be a good choice for a replacement. The cost is around US$15-17. http://www.computerchaos.net/ttvga.htmlDoug

[Cruachan]

Thanks for the feedback guys. As luck would have it the problem appears to have 'cured' itself meantime. I'll keep your suggestions in mind should it recur.Anyone had any experience lubricating these fan bearings or would it be a wasted exercise and only likely to be delaying the inevitable?Mike

[W2DR]

Mike - Most of the fans have sealed bearings and use permanent lubrication. A couple of small drops of light machine oil can't hurt, but it probably can't get onto the bearing surfaces. As to "curing itself", it could have just been a dust problem. If dust accumulates between two of the blades it will imbalance the fan and cause is to be a bit noisey. Blowing out the dust will often quiet things down.Doug

[Cruachan]

Thanks Doug,I guess it may soon be time for a spot of spring cleaning and hoovering ;)Mike

[Guest Don_Eliot]

I had a fan giving similar symtoms. Chances are this won't help your situation but here is what I found after trying to lube it, spin it,and looking at it with disgust on the kitchen table. I pressed firmly but gently on the fan hub. There was a little click and the shaft seated itself where it must supposed to have been. Was like magic for me. The fan is still running smooth after over a year. Good luck, Don