How should i clean off the old Thermal paste?

[BPiersol]

Whats the best way to clean the old thermal paste off of the cpu? I have an Athlon XP 2100+ that I am going to put new thermal paste on. How do you clean it off the bottom of the heatsink? Is there some kind of trick or solvent? I do not have any contact cleaner.

 

[iamtrout]

I use acetone (clear nail polish remover) and isopropyl alcohol afterwards. Many people just use isopropyl alcohol but I find that acetone dissolves thermal compound better. And I use q-tips.

 

[BPiersol]

Thanks!

 

[akira34]

Denatured Alcohol also works really well... With that, you don't need to use rubbing alc. after since it dries the same way (leaves nothing behind). You get get the denatured alc. from places like Home Depot, or your local hardware store. I use paper towels with the denatured alc., and just make sure I don't leave any fibers behind (can of air makes certain of that). If you want, you can use a clean rag instead.

 

[iamtrout]

I second denatured alcohol. You can find it in the paint section of your hardware store. I personally use it as camping fuel, as it burns very well, very blue, and very stubbornly.

 

[akira34]

Originally posted by: iamtrout
I second denatured alcohol. You can find it in the paint section of your hardware store. I personally use it as camping fuel, as it burns very well, very blue, and very stubbornly.

LMAO!!! I never tried to burn it before... Good to know it's "true blue" when it comes down to it... lol

 

[syconub]

i use a razor blade, or I use rubbing alchohol with a paper towel and just scrub it a little.

 

[BPiersol]

all excellent suggestions and tips, Thanks!!!