iMac late 2012 GPU issue - reflow possible?

[apedance]

Hey guys,

my iMac late 2012, Nvidia Geforce GTX 680M recently froze during boot.
Also I noticed that both Thunderbolt ports stopped working when I try to attach another monitor.

This happened. Seems like a GPU issue to me.
Here is another one.

I can boot into recovery mode without an issue.

--> http://www.macfixer.co.uk/the-gpu-reflow-repair-process-explained/

I heard about a process called GPU reflow.
Does anyone have advice, tips and tricks for me before I start this serious project?

I have no special tools at my hand. Regular tool store for a heat gun, etc.?

iMac enthusiast come forward please.
Regards,
iMac user.

 

[rlodina]

From my (limited) experiences (MacBook Pro Early 20111 video card issue) : reflow is a temporary solution (for me) in 10-15 day the problem reappear.

Search for an reballing operation (or replace GPU with new one).

 

[_Kiki_]

reballing and replacing it's a waste of money, better buy second logic board with fully working GPU

 

[apedance]

reballing and replacing it's a waste of money, better buy second logic board with fully working GPU

Ebay only I assume?

 

[_Kiki_]

Ebay only I assume?

try eBay or Amazon, probably cheapest place to buy second-hand logic board, but from local seller not China or other Asian country

 

[cynics]

I've seen members on this forum successfully "reflow" their boards with an oven and the required tools to disassemble the iMac. Some have had long lasting results, although I've read about plenty of people that haven't had it work or last too.

If you are willing to trash the iMac its definitely worth a shot.

I agree with @_Kiki_ though, having it professionally done isn't worth the money most of the time. However I would be weary of logic boards unless you can get a warranty. The problem you have is typically why they are being sold outside of a functioning iMac.

 

[Khaleal]

The problem you have is typically why they are being sold outside of a functioning iMac.

Macs with damaged screens cost a fortune to replace so some sellers prefer to part out the system and sell parts individually.