In this blog, the computer that I was working on had a problem with the cooling fan. The fan would consistently run and would not stop. The reason why the fan was consistently running was because of the connector on the motherboard had a bent pin. This caused a short causing the fan to consistently run. In order to repair the bent pin, I used a small flat head screw driver to move the pins into their original positions in the connector. Repositioning the pins in the connector made the connector on the fan and connector on the motherboard have that good connection.
Here are the steps to remove the cooling fan on the Dell Latitude 3520.
Step 1: Prepare your workspace Ensure you have a clean and well-lit workspace with enough room for your tools and components. Place your Dell Latitude 3520 on a soft surface, such as an anti-static mat or a towel.
Step 2: Power down and disconnect Turn off your laptop completely and disconnect it from any power source. This step is crucial for safety and to avoid any electrical damage.
Step 3: Remove the bottom panel Locate and remove the screws that hold the bottom panel in place. Use a small Phillips head screwdriver for this. Keep track of the screws and consider using a magnetic tray or container to prevent them from getting lost. Lift and remove the bottom panel to access the internal components.
Step 4: Locate the CPU fan cooler Identify the CPU fan cooler, which is typically positioned near the center of the laptop and above the CPU. Take note of its position and the connections it has with the motherboard.
Step 5: Disconnect the fan cooler Carefully disconnect the power cable and any other cables attached to the CPU fan cooler. These cables may be secured with connectors or screws. Remove them without damaging the cables or the motherboard.
Step 6: Remove the old CPU fan cooler Unscrew or unclip the old CPU fan cooler from its position. Gently lift it away from the laptop, taking care not to damage any components.
Step 7: Install the new CPU fan cooler Position the new CPU fan cooler over the CPU, aligning it with the screw holes or clips on the heatsink. Press it down gently to ensure proper contact with the thermal paste and secure it in place using screws or clips.
Step 8: When reconnecting the new fan or reusing the original fan, the fan connector on the motherboard can be sensitive. The pins on the fan connector on the motherboard can bend, and this can cause problems. When these pins bend, this can cause a short causing strange things to occur. For example, the fan will consistently run.
Step 9: Test and monitor Turn on your laptop and observe the CPU fan cooler’s operation. Ensure it spins properly and maintains adequate cooling. Monitor the temperature to ensure it stays within acceptable limits.
Conclusion: Congratulations! You have successfully replaced the CPU fan cooler in your Dell Latitude 3520, enhancing its cooling efficiency and ensuring optimal performance. Regularly monitor the fan’s operation and clean it as needed to prevent overheating issues in the future.
This computer has 2 screws holding down the fan. The heat sink does not need to be removed in order to remove the fan.
Here is the fan connector on the motherboard, and I am using a small flat head screw driver.