Replacing chipset fan on AK77-333 Motherboard

External Since: Jul 16, 2004 Posts: 10

Hi everyone,

I have searched through the AOpen website and haven't found anything of
great detail. I have an AK77-333 motherboard with a dead chipset fan.
I'd like to replace it, but like the person in another thread, I seem to
be unable to remove the heatsink (nevermind trying to get the fan off,
though I suspect that a mini screwdriver set would help with that.)

1) Do I need to replace the fan? I noted on one of the postings on the
AOpen website that future versions of the same motherboard would have a
heatsink but no fan in the same location.

2) If I should replace the fan, are there any ways to remove the fan and
heatsink without damaging the chip beneath or the motherboard itself?

Any tips would be appreciated.

Michael

External Since: Feb 09, 2005 Posts: 14

Yes, the fan comes right off (same fan, both systems). Those four
tiny screws are all that hold it on.

I have not yet removed the heatsink, but I was advised to place the
motherboard in a freezer to make the adhesive brittle. The amount of
precaution required to prevent condensation damage means I will try
another method. I am slowly twisting the heatsink from side to side,
careful to avoid the resistors that surround the north bridge.

Good luck!