Which one of these lubricants should I use to lube my GPU fan?

[anshkansara]

Sorry if this is in the wrong section but I wasn't sure where to put it. My GPU fan has been making an annoying rattling noise and I'm pretty sure it has something to do with the bearing. I'm going to the store tomorrow to pick up something to lube it with and I have narrowed it down to these two options:

3-in-1 White Lithium Grease: http://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/automotive/oils-fluids/oil-treatments/3-in-1-professional-white-lithium-grease-0381563p.html#.U9A5lfn3sU8

3-in-1 Silicone Lubricant: http://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/3-in-1-silicone-spray-0381562p.html#.U9BZ9vn3sU8

I wasn't able to find sewing machine oil on some of the websites of stores in my area so I've decided to go with one of these two. Which one would be better for the job in terms of usefulness, harmfulness, longevity, etc.? Thanks!

 

[oskerw]

I'd go with the silicone lubricant because I'm assuming it's less viscous than the grease. For small fans the grease seems too heavy duty as it's mostly for metal and machined parts.

 

[anshkansara]

I'd go with the silicone lubricant because I'm assuming it's less viscous than the grease. For small fans the grease seems too heavy duty as it's mostly for metal and machined parts.

Would there be any damage or anything if I were to use the grease or would the lubricant just be better overall?

 

[CrispyChips]

Unless im mistaken,those 3in1 lubricants contain solvents that will degrade plastic over time.

This is what i use.

 

[oskerw]

I'd go with the silicone lubricant because I'm assuming it's less viscous than the grease. For small fans the grease seems too heavy duty as it's mostly for metal and machined parts.

Would there be any damage or anything if I were to use the grease or would the lubricant just be better overall?

It won't hurt.

 

[anshkansara]

Unless im mistaken,those 3in1 lubricants contain solvents that will degrade plastic over time.

This is what i use.

Are you sure? I've seen a lot of posts recommend 3-in-1 oils/lubricants.

 

[CrispyChips]

Unless im mistaken,those 3in1 lubricants contain solvents that will degrade plastic over time.

This is what i use.

Are you sure? I've seen a lot of posts recommend 3-in-1 oils/lubricants.

I absolutely know this type of 3in1 will make plastic brittle,first hand experience back in the day that GPUs came with dinky heatsink+fans

 

[anshkansara]

I'm conflicted now because one person is saying from first hand experience that these lubricants damage plastic while many others are claiming that they're safe. Can anyone else confirm if they are dangerous?

 

[CrispyChips]

Mineral based oils have a range of effects,from embrittling to swelling,on different plastics. That's a known fact.

 

[anshkansara]

Mineral based oils have a range of effects,from embrittling to swelling,on different plastics. That's a known fact.

I'm not saying you're wrong, I'm just wondering why so many people recommended it if it's a known fact.

 

[CrispyChips]

Probably because it doesnt much matter,if someone is having fan problems and they need lube fast,3in1 oils are commonly around the house and do the job.

By the time they degrade the plastic enough to cause structural damage,the card is usually so old and outdated that its time to get a new one anyway.
That and a new aftermarket cooler isnt expensive.