T61 overheats running Ubuntu 14.04

[delingren]

I'm running Ubuntu 14.04 on a T61, with NVidia drivers. The GPU gets really hot even when there is no graphic intensive programs running. It easily gets >90C and causes crashes. I wonder if the unity 3D is causing the problem.

Anyone have experiences with running Ubuntu on T61? Thanks.

[brchan]

Is the fan running? Also, try removing the palmrest + keyboard + keyboard bezel and clearing any dust in the fan. If that doesn't help, reseat the heatsink. Maybe it got loose?

Just running Unity should not cause overheating. In fact, all thinkpads (in my experience) should be able to run Prime95 or Furmark (stress testing programs) without overheating or shutting down. 90C is way too high for idle, and normal temps are usually ~45 if everything is working properly with minimal dust clogging the fan.

[Saucey]

You might have to add new thermal compound to it.
Most of these units should be comfortable to have on your lap at idle, when I encountered one which didn't, a repasting of AS5 worked alot better than I thought.
Ubuntu shouldn't have a problem, I haven't encountered a problem with Linux other then a driver hiccup.