Need help with motherboard / CPU problem

[DZip]

I am trying to repair a PC for my sister-in-law and have finally narrowed the problem down to the motherboard and CPU. All other components work in other systems so I feel that they are ok. When I removed the heatsink off the CPU, I noticed that the last person to work on it used way to much arctic silver on the core. In fact, they applyed the grease to the whole surface of the chip including the cushon pads. I think that maybe the chip is destroyed. If I put another chip in this motherboard, what are the chances of the motherboard being bad and frying the new chip? The MB is a PC Chips M807 and will go to a 1 GHz Athlon. Any thoughts on how to savlage the old CPU?

 

[pspada]

If they put it on all over the chip, and it's been running ok for some time, that is unlikey to be the problem. While I have seen a few dead CPUs, in most instances it is just the mobo that's dead.

I've got 14 machines here with different type sockets and slots in them, you are welcome to send me the chip and I'll test it for you. You'll have to pay shipping back, though, assuming it does still work.

Also realize that a 1 ig chip is not of great value - not when you can buy a 1700+ OEM from newegg for $42, or a new ECS mobo and 2000+ (~$69); 2200+ (~$79); or 2400+ (~$89) Fry's deal of the week.