OK, lets clear something up, it does not mater what chip you install. The V9 and some V10's are still at risk of possibly dying.
I have had 1 out of loads. Its nothing to do with the chip, its the console design.
Some die without even being opened. Some say its overheating on LA chip, so people put paste on these extra, and or possibly a design fault with the board.
My opion is there is a major design fault with the new consoles, thats why sony brought out the V10 asap.
Installing a chip can affectivly help kill your PS2 if you use rubbish media and make the laser struggle.
I have had very few problems with the v9/10 series
Peter
www.playstationservices.co.uk