i need to ask a computer related question.

Before you replace the proc take it out and try it in a friends PC that is working. See what happens. Your 2.6 is still plenty fast so no need to upgrade if you don't need to.

pretty sure none of my friends have a socket 478 mobo, so is there a way for a local computer company to be able to test my processor?

You might could get someone at Fry's to do it for you, but they'd charge ya $10 or $15. I say might because they'll test mobo/cpus you buy there for a fee, but... you already own this CPU. Anyhow, I'd just go ahead and get the new CPU fan. Even if your CPU is broken and needs to be replaced, a big, badass CPU fan is always worth the money.