How to Change the CPU Fan on a Dell 8300

Your computer's CPU (Central Processing Unit) fan keeps your computer's CPU chip from overheating. On the Dell Dimension 8300, the cooling fan assembly sits right on top of the CPU chipset. If your fan stops working, your CPU chip will overheat and may cause irreversible damage to motherboard on your Dell Dimension 8300 desktop computer. It's important to know how to correctly remove and replace your Dell Dimension's CPU fan in the event that it stops working.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips-head screwdriver

Instructions

1. Shut down your computer through the Start menu in Windows. Disconnect all cables and devices including the power cable, video monitor cable, external hard drives, modems and external media devices.

2. Place the computer on it's side. Press on the retaining latches on the bottom and top panels of your computer. Tilt the side-access panel upwards until the internal components of your computer are exposed.

3. Locate the CPU fan assembly adjacent to the system memory slots on the motherboard. Disconnect the CPU fan's power cable from its connector on the motherboard. Remove the four Phillips-head screws securing the CPU fan to the CPU socket on the motherboard. Lift the fan out of the computer and set it to the side.

4. Place the new CPU cooling fan assembly inside the computer over the CPU chip. Align the screw holes on the new CPU fan assembly with the screw holes on the motherboard where you removed the old CPU fan. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to fasten the fan assembly to the motherboard. Connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard.

5. Close the side access panel until the locking tabs snap the side panel into place. Place the desktop vertically and re-connect the power cable, peripheral devices and miscellaneous cables.

Tips & Warnings

• Use an ESD (Electro-static Discharge) wrist wrap while disassembling the desktop. This prevents any damage or electric shock caused by static electricity.

References

• Dell Support: Dell Dimension 8300-Series Service Manual
• PC Mag: Dell Dimension 8300-Series Desktop Review

Resources

• Dell Dimension Desktops