A couple CPU cooling questions.

[AndyBogard]

I'm about to start building a new computer, its going to be Athlon 64 socket 939 PCI Express computer, I'll be using a 3500+ Newcastle processor. This will be my second computer build. I'll also be using the stock HSF. I'm not going to overclock, at least not right away, I'm still a noob to OC'ing, but I would like to keep my processor as cool as I can while still using the stock HSF.

When I go to mount the HSF on the CPU, do you recommend that I take off the thermal pad and use AS5, or is the thermal pad ok (this is if it uses a thermal pad)?

If I have to remove a thermal pad on the HSF so I can use AS5, what do you recommend I use to get the thermal pad off, and what do you recommend I use to clean the heatsink?

Would it be alright to remove the stock fan and put a different fan in its place (thinking about replacing with a Panalfo or something of quality that will do a better job and still mount to the stcok HS)?

Also what size is the stock fan on those heatsinks?

Any recommendations or advice is appreciated. Thanks.

 

[BlueWeasel]

I'm not sure about the size of the heatsinks on the 3500+.

Definately take off the thermal pad, as using good thermal paste like AS3/4/5 is much better than the thermal pad. Do this will likely help to lower your temps by a few degrees. Just be sure not to "goop" the paste on the processor...you only need a thin layer. Do a search for "Artic Silver application" if you need some help.

Removing the thermal pad is easy if you use 70% iso. alcohol and razor blades. Be sure to clean the surface thoroughly so none of the thermal pad remains.

 

[o1die]

If you're not going to overclock, there's no need for using a different heatsink. You can also use the thermal pad that comes with it. If it's too noisy, you can use a zalman "fan mate 1 or 2" device to lower the fan rpms. I run my p4 at 2550 at idle, but I would recommend 3000-3200. But try the cool and quiet feature first. It may lower fan rpms automatically.