I decided to upgrade my SN3 power amp for a NAP 250 DR which was discounted due to being both OC and cement coloured. Now I have just received it and there is an oil (I think) leak coming out from the bottom of the 250 DR. Any idea what this is and whether I should even plug it in or send straight back. Pictures below and ideas gratefully received.
Looks like the cooling oil has leaked from the transformers.
Have you checked the serial number to verify that it at least seems possibly a genuine Naim product?
Certainly will be genuine. No-one trying to counterfeit would ever choose concrete over black!
In any case it needs to go back to the dealer asap.
I’m unaware of toroidal transformers such as used in this having oil cooling - but I admit to not being familiar with Naim’s transformers.
It’s the area under where the transistors and cooling blocks are bolted down into the chassis. Exposed to serious sun light and heat? I have no idea what the melting point is for the paste between transistors and heat sink but that’s the only thing I can think of if it’s not a blown capacitor leaking.
Yes it is genuine or a really elaborate fraud involving someone impersonating a Naim dealers website, answering the telephone and speaking German and knowing about Naim products and offering counterfeit versions of a poorly received product Appreciate this is always possible but I think we can rule it out.
Believe there can be something used between Power Transistors and their Heat Sinks…?
Think it can be Silicone based - so Silicone oil or grease…?
Google says -
What is heat sink compound? Heat sink compound (also called thermal grease, thermal compound, CPU grease, heat paste, heat sink paste, and thermal interface material) is a sticky paste that’s used as an interface between CPU heat sinks and heat sources .
The leak may just be where there is a route out. Doesn’t mean that’s where the oil is coming from (if it is oil). Maybe it’s a leaking electrolytic.
But it’s white not brown.
The location of the leak suggests its heatsink related…
As I mentioned before, where it’s coming out doesn’t necessarily mean anything except that is where the hole is!
It may be from the thermal grease - there has to be some between the chassis tray and the cover as the latter acts as a heatsink. Otherwise, one for @NeilS I think…
IB, I think Skeptical said this rather tongue in cheek.
Thanks Richard - it certainly could be grease. Question is what to do ? I will wait for @NeilS before doing anything as I don’t want to turn it on before being told it is ok to do so. I will also send the dealer the pictures and let him know that I might well send it back. Of course the problem is that there is only a refund available as the dealer has no more cement coloured 250’s and I really want a new one to avoid recapping as long as possible. But damaged goods need to go back in any case.
I will also say the concrete is no where near as bad as people suggest. I rather like it if truth be told.
This is just thermal grease … nothing to worry about if you ask me.
Naim’s transformers are not oil cooled…
I am very sure of this.