How to fix Stock P4 478 Fan

[mgpaulus]

I am upgrading my linux box @ work for cheap,cheap,cheap. So, I got a 1.7GHz Socket 478 w/stock HSF. The only problem is, one of the little tab thingies on the heatsink hold down mechanism is broke, so only one side will tighten correctly.

So, I have a couple of questions:
Do I need both sides tightened correctly, or am I good with 1 side only?
Where can I get some replacement clips that won't cost me lot's of $$?
Can I fix this thing someother way, if necessary?

The piece that is broken is part of the mechanism that slips over the Heatsink,
interlocks with the bracket on the motherboard, and has 2 flip levers to apply
tension. The 4 legs have pieces that angle in, and engage the holes in the bracket.
The one I have, one of the tabs that angle in broke off.

Thanks.

 

[Denithor]

You need both sides tight, otherwise you don't maintain proper contact with the chip and it will get toasty.

Just replace the hsf with something from ebay or somewhere for about $10.

 

[bendixG15]

PM