Moving CPU heatsink/fan from one PC to another -- thermal paste?

[Mikerrrrr]

Hi, I recently purchased a new CPU heatsink/fan (this one) for use on one PC. However, I now need to move it to another PC, but my thermal paste is in another location (that I'm going to in a few weeks), and I don't feel like buying a $10 tube for one-time application.

My question is, can I simply take off the heatsink and move it to the new processor? There was a pretty generous slathering of it on the heatsink when I put it on the first processor, and I *think* it'll be okay to just transfer the heatsink to the other processor. I bought the cooler on July 2, if that helps.

Can anybody tell me if this this a silly idea, or will it be okay? Thanks!

 

[Bubbaleone]

When you pull the cooler off you'll have to decide. Personally, I wouldn't risk it considering the price of a tube of thermal compound vs the price of a new CPU.


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[Mikerrrrr]

Hmm. I think I'm going to take it off, check to see if the layer is thick enough. If it isn't, I'm going to use the stock HSF that comes with the processor. If it is thick enough, I'll put it on and check the temps in windows. If the temps are too high, I'll just go back to using the stock HSF, and use that until I get access to my tube of thermal paste next month.

Does that plan sound okay?

 

[pete1229]

Wow! You can pickup some thermal paste on ebay for lrss then a buck for a tube and your trying to justify risking a cpu to save a few bucks!

 

[denis280]

Wow! You can pickup some thermal paste on ebay for lrss then a buck for a tube and your trying to justify risking a cpu to save a few bucks!

I Agree with pete. don't take a chance and put new thermal paste

 

[Mikerrrrr]

Thanks for the replies.