Do I have to remove thermal paste?

[deafears]

I'm replacing a motherboard, and came across something I think I should know before I continue. Should I remove the thermal pad on the heatsink and replace it with thermal paste? Is it necessary to remove the pad, or can I just set the heatsink right back on the cpu? Is that bad? Thanks all for any help.

 

[lobadobadingdong]

I'd strongly suggest removing the pad, and using a quality thermal paste. just remember a little goes a long way.

 

[bamacre]

I am also replacing a motherboard very soon. I've never actually installed a cpu onto a motherboard, I've always purchased mobo/cpu combos. Is there anything I should look out for?

 

[mondobyte]

ALWAYS remove all old thermal compound and/or pads.

Do not use metal to remove thermal material from either a Heatsink or the CPU.

A good solvent is usually best (Alcohol, Lighter Fluid followed by Alcohol, Acetone followed by Alcohol,etc.) Whatevery you use, vinyl gloves are recommended. Acetone infiltrates through the skin.

I use a SOFT plastic tool to remove old thermal pad.

With thermal compounds, less is better up to a point. You only want enough to fill up the gaps between the HS and the processor with good contact between them. You are not looking to create a uniform layer between them (becomes insulation).

If you find you are using very much force to latch the spring clips, you are either using the wrong tool, the wrong angle, or not lined up. With the right tool (long very small screwdriver) and the right angle, it is usually very easy. You may need to remove the memory to give you that good angle.

Make sure you plug in the fan BEFORE you give it the smoke test.

Hope this helps