Computer Repair suggestions?

[Yvondith]

OK, so I need to replace the Power Supply and the Heat Sink on my 6 year old computer. I haven't done this since college, and frankly, I feel a little intimidated... any suggestions, or helpful hints I should know?

The Power Supply itself is making an awful grinding, buzzing noise. The Heat Sink, the fan on it is whining, sorta. Both are issues that have popped up within the past month.

Also gonna upgrade my video card while I'm at it, but I feel pretty confident about that, I've done it before.

Still, the Power Supply and Heat Sink have me worried, I haven't done it in like... almost 8 years now.

[masaia]

Power supplies aren't that bad, depending on the model of the machine you're working on.

Obviously, you unplug everything and set it up on a counter. Ground yourself by hitting the side of the case first before diving in. I wouldn't suggest doing any work on a carpet. Disconnect all the power supply connections to the devices first. You will have to "Push in" a tab for the connections on the motherboard. That's probably the hardest thing to remove in a cramped case. After you do that, unscrew the (4) screws and remove it. When you re-install it, put the screws in first before seating the power back in. Press in the connections on the motherboard til they "click" try not to smash them in.

As for the heat sink, it depends on how it's put on... The ones I'm used to taking off (back in the day) had 4 screws that sealed the fan down to the heat sink. Some have metal hooks that you have to push a certain direction to pry loose. Either way, it's on the motherboard, so try not to force it off. Some models are more frustrating to put back on than off. If you have thermal grease and are taking the whole heat sink off, make sure you add some to make up for what's lost.

I'm sure there are some websites you can have picture-by-picture on the basis on doing this as well. I'll see if I can find some.

[Yvondith]

Gonna try to just replace the power supply for now. God, it sounds terrible.

Thanks for the advice.

[Yvondith]

Got the parts in today, and installed them successfully.

[dejibo]

yea! did you get the check I sent to pay for the parts? Is it working better? Im proud of you!

[Yvondith]

Dunno yet, will have to ask Granny.

I didn't replace the Heat Sink yet, I was really waiting to see if the Power Supply issue cleared up, and it did. I will be using that money for a new Heat Sink soon, or at least a new fan for it. The Power Supply was 90% of the noise problem, though.

Kudos to Newegg too, free shipping, and the parts were here 2 days later! Very impressive.

[Office Ninja]

I love Newegg!