How do I remove the thermal wax from the new style ABIT NB Heatsink?

[thatsright]

So I ordered the newer ABIT Northbridge Heatsink Fan cooler for my IC7. Just got it today and noticed what looks like there is (paraffin?) thermal wax on the underside of the Heatsink. Or is it just thermal grease? Well I want to remove it and apply it some AS3.

Anyone know of the best way to completely remove the wax the most effective way I can. I don't really want to scrap it off as this will just leave gouges on the underside of the Heatsink.

Thanks a lot.

 

[boyRacer]

goo gone... if you're talking about the square in the middle thats just thermal material that sits directly on the core... the strip around it is some sort of cushion or something. anyway... goo gone works well or any other type of adhesive remover.

 

[Shooters]

I've found that with the more solid gummy type thermal compounds Goo Gone works the best. Put a few drops on the compound and let it sit for a minute or two. Then keep rubbing it with a Q-tip until it completely comes off. Once you get it all off, go over the surface with some rubbing alcohol to remove any residue.

Edit:
boyRacer beat me to it. I second his suggestion!

 

[JoeBrown]

that stuff is sticky

 

[John]

goo gone = cirtus based and not good to use since it leaves a residue

I recommend brake cleaner or goof off

 

[MercenaryForHire]

Originally posted by: John
goo gone = cirtus based and not good to use since it leaves a residue

I recommend brake cleaner or goof off

Everyone gets Goo Gone and Goof Off mixed up - and they pay for it later.

Goof Off followed by high-% rubbing alcohol.

- M4H

 

[boyRacer]

:Q I've been using goo gone.... it takes a bath in rubbing alcohol after though... oh well.

 

[Shooters]

Originally posted by: John
goo gone = cirtus based and not good to use since it leaves a residue

Will rubbing alcohol not get the residue off?

 

[yhelothar]

nope it's oil based residue and will get permanently stuck in the microscopic ridges in the heatsink...
i'd use acetone or any nail polish remover.. comes off with ease..
far easier than alcohol

 

[MercenaryForHire]

Originally posted by: virtualgames0
nope it's oil based residue and will get permanently stuck in the microscopic ridges in the heatsink...
i'd use acetone or any nail polish remover.. comes off with ease..
far easier than alcohol

IIRC, acetone still needs a followup clean with alcohol.

- M4H