Graphics card only works underclocked... (Sometimes)

[Sean_1509]

So here goes.

Hi guys, recently i got my hands on my old HD 6970, im using this as my 290X brokedown and i am having to replace it.

So the problem is, that at stock clock speeds, running this gpu for around 2-5 minutes will make the screen go black, and the GPU fan speeds run at 100% for no reason...
However, when i go into MSI Afterburner, and bring the speeds down to 1150, 800. The card works fine... SOMETIMES, sometimes ittl just do what it normally does and go black.

To me, this sounds like the thermal pads and paste need replacing.

Whats your guys views?

 

[Sean_1509]

A CRUCIAL THING TO ADD: This card works Flawlessly when actually using it. So when im running a game, or running a benchmark, it runs perfectly and as it should (Obviously still under-clocked)