Quick noobie question about removing/replacing a CPU

[SuperMarioBro]

Hey guys. I have a Q6600 in a Dell Inspiron 530 that I was planning on overclocking with the tape mod. I've tried searching for comprehensive instructions on this (both on this forum and the web) since I really want to do this, but want to risk as little as possible.

Basically, I'm wondering if I will need to re-apply more thermal paste after I mod the CPU and replace it in the socket. Or will the paste that's already there still be OK? If I do need to re-apply paste, do I need to scrape off the paste that's already on there? Both from the heat sink and from the top of the CPU chip?

Thanks in advance.

 

[nickbits]

You should always use new thermal compound and clean off any existing compound.

 

[SuperMarioBro]

OK, thanks. Is there any specific way you recommend cleaning that off? Just with a dry napkin or something?

EDIT: I got the HSF off, and it looks like this stuff is on there a little more solidly than I thought it would be... Guess I'll need some rubbing alcohol.