Overheating macbook 3.1; replace thermal paste?

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Overheating macbook 3.1; replace thermal paste?

It's an A1181 (santa rosa, intel core 2 duo, late 2007) that I've had since it was new on the market.

Since a few months back it started overheating then suddenly switching off when at ~85C.

Downgrading the OS gave no improvement so I opened it and cleaned it: it was super-dirty, and hasn't switched off since not even during cpu intensive tasks..

This are the readouts now during intensive tasks

http://imgur.com/h5UbKU8

At rest it's ~62C.

Should I replace the thermal paste? Anything else to do to extend it's lifespan? 😍

For example I only sprayed the motherboard and fan but should I open up the fan and clean the individual blades with a cloth.

I appreciate your feedback!

MacBook, Mac OS X (10.6.8)

Posted on May 9, 2013 1:11 PM

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Answer 1

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Kappy

Level 10

361,741 points

May 9, 2013 1:18 PM in response to Addes

There is something wrong as the computer should not heat up like that, but it has nothing to do with the thermal paste (unless there isn't any.) Is the fan actually running? Does it run at maximum speed when the computer is very hot or is it running at idle speed? If the latter then there could be a failed sensor. Have you tried resetting the SMC: Intel-based Macs: Resetting the System Management Controller (SMC)? Also check that there is nothing blocking the air vents.

In any event it would be wise to take the computer in for service. Continually using it at high temps will only cause damage.

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Answer 2

Addes Author

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15 points

May 9, 2013 1:29 PM in response to Kappy

Apologies, I forgot to mention that I did the PRAM and SMC resets.

Airvents are unobstructed and the fan is at 6250 rpm, I've set it to max with SMC fan control.

http://imgur.com/qPIiGdq

I agree about the service part but I'm in a foreign country (east europe), ~500 miles from an apple center and the local shops are a bit.. shady. I think fixing it myself would be the best option, if we can identify the problem.

How do you know it's not the paste? Perhaps that's just not an issue on macs, I don't know really.

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Answer 3

Kappy

Level 10

361,741 points

May 9, 2013 1:37 PM in response to Addes

Well, without a proper diagnostic device I'm not sure how to identify the problem. If it's related to a bad sensor then that means replacing the sensor or the motherboard depending on whether the sensor is an independent part. If the SMC is defective then that means replacing the motherboard. So, I don't know how you would fix it yourself since you must get the parts. Given the potential cost to repair it (if it's repairable) you may spend more than the computer is worth given its age.

If you have the original discs that came with the computer you can run the software Apple Hardware Test to see if it identifies anything that is failing:

Running Apple Hardware Test on Intel Macs

Boot from the OS X Installer Disc One that came with the computer. After the chime press and hold down the "D" key until the diagnostic screen appears. Run the extended tests repeatedly for at least one or two hours. Note down any error messages if they appear. You will need to report them to the Apple tech who will service your machine.

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Answer 4

Addes Author

Level 1

15 points

May 9, 2013 1:44 PM in response to Kappy

I see, thank you.

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