iMac 27" Mid 2011 -- fan issues when removing internal HDD? My iMac’s internal HDD has died. No big thing, as it was not used anyways. The iMac came with an SSD and HDD from the factory and I’m fine with using the SSD only. (note: this was the pre “Fusion Drive” era)

Unfortunately, the broken HDD now makes clicking noises and so I want to remove it  and leave its slot empty.

I read that with the Mid 2011 models, Apple did some proprietary temperature monitoring which makes it difficult to replace the stock HDD with an aftermarket one. Without a special adapter, the HDD’s fan would simply turn at maximum speed. (see e.g. here)

What’s however unclear to me and what I’d like to check before opening the iMac: Will I also run into these issues when I just remove the HDD?
Will I also run into these issues when I just remove the HDD?


Yes.  

The reason being is because that vintage iMac used a quasi-proprietary drive that had a temp sensor built in.   Remove the drive, you remove the sensor and the fans spin up full speed.

Instead of just removing the drive, add an SSD and use an inline temperature sensor to regain the functionality.