Engaging in Messy Overclocking Techniques

If you have ever pondered unconventional methods for enhancing your CPU or GPU’s output, traditional options like water loops, dry ice, and liquid nitrogen are common. However, a recent experiment with automatic transmission fluid (ATF) presents an intriguing, albeit messy, alternative.

Overview

YouTube channel TrashBench recently pursued an outlandish idea: to cool a GeForce GTX 1060 and 1080 Ti using ATF. Depending on the effectiveness, you might get your fill of entertainment or disaster.

ATF is primarily designed as a lubricant and would likely not typically be chosen for cooling tasks. However, though it can absorb heat, it poses other challenges, particularly in terms of residues that can cause a headache during disassembly later. As one participant humorously noted, “ATF is fun; it crawls into every crevice, stains your cables, and turns teardown into a full day regret spiral. Don’t try this unless you’re okay with ruining hardware and your mood.”

Experimenting with Cooling Mechanics

TrashBench began by filling a large container with eight liters of ATF and submerged the graphics cards, sans fans. An additional pump was added to circulate the ATF through a transmission cooler block taken from a Dodge Journey SUV. This cooler block was somewhat connected to a secondary cooling loop using a glycol mixture and an ice-filled drink cooler.

In the end, while the 1080 Ti only achieved a mere under 8% clock boost, the 1060 was more agreeable, grazing an approximate 16% improvement in performance at just around 30 °C operating temperature.

If this method intrigues you, or if you just fancy a good laugh, be sure to catch TrashBench’s video linked above for more visuals. Just make sure to bring the cleaning supplies along if you attempt to replicate this unique solution!