Question CPU overheating after moving (water cooled)

[bfwhsm3]

I have recently moved across towns and carried my mini itx water-cooled build with it (Ryzen 5800x).

When I start using the computer, I immediately notice that it is louder than usual and computer is also running slow.

After a few minutes, computer turns off automatically citing high CPU temps.

After that, I try rocking computer a little while it's running, as to remove any possible air locks. Both water pump fans seem to be running well and I feel a vibration on the water pump unit (indicating that it is functional).

Invariably, however, the computer auto shuts off after few seconds-few minutes despite good circulation.

ChatGPT thinks it is most likely due to bad contact/problem with thermal paste and recommended that I re-apply thermal paste and reseat.

Do you agree? Any other possiblities or thoughts?

Pic of computer here:

https://imgur.com/a/mnecrtX

 

[In2Photos]

Yes, I would remove the pump from the socket, clean the CPU and pump block, then reapply thermal paste and reinstall the pump. Do this after running the PC for a few minutes to warm up the CPU and thermal paste. That makes it easier to remove the pump block.

 

[Paperdoc]

First, check the pump connection to the CPU_FAN header. With the system OFF, unplug that cable and then re-connect it several times. Re-connect as the last step, then start up. IF that connection somehow got loose or had a poor connection, these actions may re-establish a good connection.

As one test of the pump unit, you can try this IF you can get it to run for a while.Feel the two hoses where they emerge from the pump body. One should be warmer than the other, but neither will be REALLY warm. If that is what you find, the pump is working properly. If they are both the same and quite warm, then there is NO fluid flow carrying heat to the rad, suggesting pump failure.

 

[bfwhsm3]

I tried to reapplying thermal paste. But temps are still high:

It quickly climbs to 95 and higher from there (you can also check my fan speeds on the screen shot).

I also wondered if it's a problem with cable connection. I reseated the cable coming directly off the pump which was connected to AIO_PUMP. Another cable (can't tell exactly where it originates from since my build is very compact) is connected to CPU_FAN - I also reseated this one.

I was too afraid of heat damage to let it run for long, so I couldn't test through your method. I get the sense that it is either a bad clog or broken pump. I do not hear the normal clug-clug of the pumps.

Anything else I should attempt before shelling out for a new AIO (or maybe even a simple fan cooler if it would fit in my case..)?

 

[StefanR5R]

The two RPM values in your screenshot *might* be the radiator fans (1614 RPM) and the pump (3400 RPM).

When a CPU gets very hot even when idle, and a closed-loop liquid cooler a.k.a. AIO water cooler is involved, one common reason is that the fine channels in the cold plate are clogged with corrosion product or sealant or other dirt which does not belong into a water cooling loop, but is often enough built up over time in many badly constructed/ badly manufactured AIOs. I don't know if Lian Li branded ones are among those.

Such dirt may have gotten loose from somewhere in the loop while the computer was moved, and gotten into the cold plate when the cooler was switched on again after the move.

Some CLCs can be disassembled, cleaned, refilled and reassembled, but in general they are designed to be thrown away instead of serviced.

 

[bfwhsm3]

I am probably going to have to get a new cooler then. But I am nervous about tweaking with this build because it is a compact build that I did not make. I only assembled air cooling systems before. Would getting the same brand of cooler be the best idea in terms of making this replacement as easy as possible?

For instance, I would prefer not to replace the hardware to mount the pump (with 4 screws) which might mean I would have to take out the motherboard.

 

[In2Photos]

I am probably going to have to get a new cooler then. But I am nervous about tweaking with this build because it is a compact build that I did not make. I only assembled air cooling systems before. Would getting the same brand of cooler be the best idea in terms of making this replacement as easy as possible?

For instance, I would prefer not to replace the hardware to mount the pump (with 4 screws) which might mean I would have to take out the motherboard.

Even getting the same brand cooler may not guarantee that it has the same mounting kit. But you could download the installation instructions and see if it's at least similar. Air coolers are typically easier to install but in small form factor builds you may find even an air cooler is tough if space is tight. Make sure you check the height requirements for your case, perhaps use PC Part Picker to help you decide since it checks compatibility.

 

[aigomorla]

have you tried running the system with the case off to see if it improves temps at all?