Graphics Card making grinding sounds

[Chrono]

not that long ago, my graphics card stated to make grinding sounds on startup... this sound did go away by the time the computer had fully started up, but i was just wondering if this was harming my graphics card in any way.

I found it was comming from the fan, as while it was making the sound, i could just touch the fan, and slow it down, and the noise would go away for a while.

any ideas that dont result in u telling me to get another brand, or new graphics?

ive got a sparkle 6600GT 128MB

thx

 

[Elbatrop1]

One option is to get an aftermarket cooler for your vid card. Unfortunately, this voids any warranty you might have.

Something like this would do:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16835118116

 

[Alvin.C]

Re:

Hello,

Make sure it's free of dust and dirt and make sure that the fan blades aren't hitting anything.

You might want to try lubricating the bearing(s) in the fan if there's an opening...

http://insight.zdnet.co.uk/hardware/chips/0,39020436,2135514-3,00.htm

Otherwise...yep replace it.