X31, odd ram slot problem

[OliverBendix]

Hi, I have an X31 2672, with an intermittently repeating problem that I think might be to do with the memory slots. It occasionally fails to boot, showing a dark screen or the IBM flash screen, or freezes while running. Reseating the memory fixes it without fail, but not permanently - the fault recurs, usually within the week and sometimes within a day.

I've exchanged the two 256 MiB cards for a single 512 MiB one from another machine. This didn't help. I've also tried this 512 card in both memory slots, and it's the same in both.

What do you reckon? Is this a problem with the memory slots - corrosion, dirt, failed solder? Or is it some other problem with the system board? I'm inclined to suspect the slots as reseating the memory always fixes it.

I haven't yet tried folding paper to go under the memory lid as I'm a bit concerned about doing more damage with the pressure.

[TheRedFox]

have you tried running memtest86? It's doubtful that all three sticks are bad, but you could try. It's most likely an issue with the slots, themselves. I doubt putting a piece of paper under the memory lid would do much damage. it's probably not a lot of pressure.

[OliverBendix]

Thanks Redfox.
Yes, i tried memtest86 on the two original sticks, and they all run fine in my wife's Toshiba so I'm sure they're all good. I'm pretty sure now that it's the slots - the last failure gave me the correct beep code for a memory or slot problem.

I could resolder the connections - I have access to good soldering gear at work and have done some fine SMD stuff before - so I might give that a go. Just having a look under the microscope might tell me something.