How exactly do you remove a Zalman?

[Capitalizt]

It looks darn intimidating...I see 4-5 screws going directly into the motherboard which I suspect can stay there. But there are also a few on the fan itself, as well as some strange-looking clips and knobs that need to be messed with.

I just need to apply some thermal paste to the CPU, but have no idea where to begin.

Do I need to take the entire Zalman off the motherboard?...or does the fan just "pop off" somehow, revealing the CPU?

 

[SparkyJJO]

Which model is it? Mounting varies between models. I assume this is mounted on LGA 775?

 

[Binky]

Most Zalman's I've used have a two piece braket system that clamps to the motherboard (one under MB, one on top below the heatsink). This is held with 4 screws that dont need to be removed if you plan to put the heatsink back on after you remove it. The heatsink itself is held on by 2 screws that mount it to the bracket assembly.

Zalman has little flash videos on their webpage that show the mounting system.