T30 Fan Assembly Compatibility

[FragrantHead]

My T30 fan is close to failure. It has slowed down (according to fan control) and is making grinding noises. I wish to purchase a replacement. The FRU and part number on my fan label are 46P2958 and 46P3132 respectively. How important is it to get the exact same part? There are other parts offered on eBay, such as 46L4753, which look identical in the pictures. Should they be suitable or could there be hidden or electrical differences? Would you buy used from eBay or new (supposedly) at a higher price from a place such as www.acsfactoryoutlet.com? Am I likely to still get a genuine IBM / Lenovo part or would new items likely be inferior Chinese knockoffs?

[nikki605]

I can tell you about my one experience with ACS, which was very good. Back in 2006, I bought an ethernet/modem combo card from them because my T21 originally shipped with only a modem card. What they shipped was a genuine used IBM part and it worked fine. It is still working to this day.

Their web site says they ship tested, used IBM parts, which in my case was true. If they ever ship knockoffs for other type parts, I can't say for sure, but I don't think so. Check their "returns" page. Also, you can call or email them before you buy.

I have been burned by my last couple of non-computer eBay purchases, that I have been turned off to them in general. But, that's just me. I'm sure there are plenty of trustworthy sellers out there, I just happened to hit a couple of dogs. Besides, you may not find exactly what you are looking for, when you want it,IMHO.

[RealBlackStuff]

You need a replacement fan 2 as indicated on HMM page 147 (item 23), P/N 46P3132

The other eBay nr. 46L4753 is NOT suitable, it is the standard fan, not a fan 2.

[FragrantHead]

Wow, two excellent, relevant replies very quickly. Thank you both!