Fan lubrication

[RatherBFlyin]

The cooling fan attached to my video card is starting to make noises occasionally. I was wondering if anyone could say for certain that applying WD-40 to the fan's hub would have no negative effect on the video card itself.

[Northwestdc9]

Shouldn't as long as the oil doesn't get on the card itself, just be careful when doing it.

I generally find that noise is made by being clogged with dust, get a can of compressed air and blast it clean. That usually works.

[sanins192]

I don't know the exact position of your fan, but if you can slide a piece of paper between the board and the fan just to be sure. What type of noise does it make?

[RatherBFlyin]

The noise is a louder-than-normal hum, with a tiny bit of rattle thrown in.

I was thinking about spraying the WD-40 onto a cloth or paper towel and applying it that way.

[Northwestdc9]

Not a bad idea, that should work. Or you can dissemble the fan and pull it off the card, then you should be good to go.

The fan may also be on it's last leg, and may need to be replaced soon.

[RatherBFlyin]

I have been told that WD-40 does not get along well with some plastics, so the idea of lubricating the fan is out. However, I think it knows I have been talking about it because lately it has been running much more quietly.

[sanins192]

Haha. It's surprising how clever some of these newer fans are. I'm annoyed with my LED fans as they keep on breaking (just the LEDs) and I keep replacing them. I think I'm just going to get some decent, quiet and reliable fans next time.

[Carlo]

A can of compressed air is your best friend.