Fixing a PSU fan
Fixing a PSU fan
I’ve been dealing with this issue for at least a year, possibly longer, and it’s become quite bothersome. The fan inside the PSU is producing a loud rattling sound when I start my PC, sometimes even after booting up. I think it might be the bearing in the fan, but because of current circumstances I can’t afford to replace the PSU just yet. My computer is old—around 7 to 8 years—but I’m hoping it can still last another couple more years. I’ve looked into the matter and gathered some advice, but I want to be fully confident before proceeding so as not to risk damaging myself or the device. I’m considering the Corsair VS650.
Here’s what I’m planning:
1. Unplug all cables from the back of the PC.
2. Discharge the PSU’s capacitors by holding the power button for 20 seconds, repeating this three times and leaving it overnight.
3. Remove the PSU from its case and open it up (I’m keeping the wires connected to the motherboard to avoid messing with the cable layout—please let me know if that’s okay).
4. Extract the fan from the PSU.
5. Apply sewing machine oil to the bearing and reinstall everything carefully.
If I make a mistake, please let me know. Thank you for your help!
But oil is quite affordable, isn't it, so we should consider trying it, shouldn't we?
If it doesn’t work, the next best choice is to swap out the fan. What specifications should I look for in a replacement? The Corsairs website mentions that the original fan includes a “thermal control.” Should this be something I must check when purchasing a new one, or is it a standard feature on all fans? I have an extra fan for my CPU that fits the PSU, but it has a 3-pin connector while the PSU only needs a 2-pin. Can I still connect it even though the cable isn’t a 2-pin? And if not, do I need an adapter or something similar?
If the power supply unit is outdated and/or producing a loud rattling sound, it should be replaced. Even if you manage to fit the necessary space for oil, it's only a temporary solution. The noise originates from the fan shaft vibrating within the solid bronze bearing, and oil won't resolve this issue. In fact, it could potentially worsen the situation. This suggests an oil-coated bronze bearing is likely involved. Using incorrect oil might dilute or contaminate the existing material.
Oil is inexpensive. It doesn't make sense to try to use it. Usually, you can't reach the bearings with oil. It could create a fire risk and cause injury.
What kind of fan should you choose? You'd need to find the part number from the original fan to check its speed, airflow, and voltage requirements. The fan might be 5VDC, 12VDC, or AC-powered. Without knowing the exact model through a search, it's impossible to determine. It could also be soldered instead of plugged in.
Being unqualified to try this is not right, according to my view.
If you can't afford to buy a new PSU, then it's likely you're not financially ready to replace your whole PC, which is what you put yourself at risk with. You're also taking unnecessary chances by experimenting with sewing machine oil. These parts aren't designed for regular user repair beyond profit motives.
Let's set aside the oil discussion and concentrate on the fan. Could all the information you referenced be found on the fan itself or by checking the manufacturer's website? And if I inspect the power supply, I should be able to determine whether its socket is connected properly.
Yes, I might feel a bit inexperienced, but I don’t need an electrical engineering degree to realize the capacitors pose a safety risk, so it’s generally not advisable to open the PSU. However, if they are fully drained, the risk disappears, correct? I’m mentioning this method because I want to confirm I’m doing it correctly.