I use temp target 74 on my r9-290's (I have many rigs). The GPU load remains constant at 100%. The fan's on the r9 just pickup speed when the temp goes above that, hashing remains the same. It is possible there isn't enough external cooling on the rig. I use blower fan's to keep the r9's cool and running at a constant temp/hash rate. In my experience though, to get a constant hash-rate on the r9's you need to get your settings just right.