Can't install OS on iMac

[Ben Homer]

Hey Guys,

First time poster here Hoping someone can help.

I have an old iMac - A1312 (2009/10ish) that I'm trying to get working.

If I try to boot from internal HDD, I get the question mark folder so am trying to reinstall OSX (High Sierra). Internet recovery prompts me for WiFi and then sits loading indefinitely (see pics). If I boot from a USB High Sierra installer, I get a loading bar, then just a blank screen. I have left it for hours in both cases and nothing happens. I have reset SMC and NVRAM to no avail. I have a spare HDD but the exact same things happen with that in instead.

Any help greatly appreciated.

TIA...

Ben

 

[topcat001]

When I encounter issues like this I sometimes make progress using a Linux live CD. Not to install Linux, but check hardware, in particular the memory. Might help. I suggest using Manjaro Linux.

 

[Ben Homer]

Thanks Topcat for your reply. I have tried this option but am met with the same blank screen. I have since ran Apple Hardware Test and found and received error code:
4MOT/4/40000003: HDD- 1296
I think this is something to do with the HDD Fan. I can’t see how this would affect booting externally. Any ideas?

Thanks

 

[topcat001]

MOT = fan motor. I'm not sure but a failing hardware code could stop the boot process. You might need to replace the fan.

 

[Ben Homer]

Hi Topcat,

Sorry for the delay in response. Thanks for the suggestion. I'll order one of those and get that fitted.

Thanks again

 

[topcat001]

Good luck. I really hope you can resurrect it