Cleaning the CPU core

[Afro000Dude]

I want to install a new heatsink, but I have to clean the core of its old thermal material first. I know isopropyl alcohol will do it, but what concentration? I've heard people using 90-100% rubbing alcohol, but all I have are 70% wipes. Would these damage anything in any way?

 

[Corporate Thug]

it wont but you can get 99% alcahol at rite aid

 

[DT4K]

I use the 70% all the time without problem.
Just make sure you let it dry for a while since it takes a lot longer for the water to evaporate.
You don't want to put thermal paste on if there is still moisture on the core.

 

[dszd0g]

A ton of information is available in the Artic Silver Instructions; they have a section on cleaning at the bottom.

 

[blazerazor]

I use CHLOROFORM.
Work great, and disappears really fast.

 

[anandfan]

GoofOff ! (That's a solvent/cleaner)

 

[Engineer]

Originally posted by: anandfan
GoofOff ! (That's a solvent/cleaner)

If using GoofOff...be careful...it will disolve plastic (case, keyboard, possible motherboard components...etc)...

100% Isoproply alcohol is available in many VCR cleaning kits 🙂