Dang, comp's making crazy noises...

[BTM]

Keep hearing this grinding sound coming from my computer.  I took it apart and I THINK I've foudn the source... I'd got a dual core computer, one of these where the motherboard is split into two parts and connected by a bridge.  One on of them, the fan is moving a lot slower than on the other, press my finger up against the part nearest to it and I feel it's definitely warmer than the one below. 

Not sure what to do, I've sprayed compressed air into it several times, blasting out bits of dust and other stuff, I've been taken a wet t-tip and ran it through the blades as best as I could, but still the noises persists (although it's not as loud as it was). 

Guess I'm going to have to risk further dismantling the motherboard, although that's not something I've had much experience with.  Not sure, but I'm guessing if have the processor burns out that'll screw up the computer big time.

Anyway, just thought I'd throw this out there and get some advice.  I know it's definitely as it has a lose sticker on top, and, as I watch, the "spin" of the fan slowerly while the grinding noise was occuring, so they're definitely connected. 

Maybe my stepdad can fix it, he's always been good with computers...

Wish me luck.

[Derf]

It is most likely the fan, and they're easy to replace. One or two (up to four) screws to remove, get a replacement fan (they're usually under $10), put it in place and screw it down. Done!

[Jack]

Yeah, sounds like the fan is on its last legs.  This place has a ton of them http://www.coolerguys.com/fans.html Though you'll probably want to pick one up locally as it's something that should be fixed immediately    I like the Scythe S-Flex fans, they're really quiet and are supposed to last for years.

[BTM]

Hey guys!  Meant to update this... anyway, so I took apart my computer (well, took it apart further I should say) and was surprised at how easy it was for the most part. 

Anyway, it's not my processor, it's actually my graphics card that's making the noises.  It's a NVvidia GEForce 6600.  One of those 128kb cards with two 64kb parts with a bridge inbetween.  For some reason the fan on the bottom part isn't moving that fast.  I was able to pull both parts out easily, but I could not disassemble the fan.  It had these REAL tiny screws on it that I could NOT get off, even using my eye glass repair kit screwdrivers (what is it with tiny screws that make them so damn hard to move?)

Anyway, I figure I'll just replace the graphics card if it gets too bad.  You could tell the fan's definitely not moving well, the other one I should push with my finger and it'd easily spin a full turn or two before stopping, this one, not so much. 

Just need to make sure i get a replacement card that'll work out with my machine.  I get the feeling if I get one that's too new it won't run right with my computer. 

[asimpson2006]

Just need to make sure i get a replacement card that'll work out with my machine.  I get the feeling if I get one that's too new it won't run right with my computer. 

Well you need to make sure that the connection type for the card you want to get works with the port on your Motherboard.  How old is your computer might I ask.  Do you know the specs for your Motherboard, this will help you to know what types of cards your Motherboard can support.  Once you find out the specs check out sites like tigerdirect.com or newegg.com and look at the specs for cards that you may have interest in getting.