Removing a heatsink/fan

[kenny2004]

Hey all,

I've never removed a HSF before and was wondering if it's easier to do when the computer is just turned off and that the HSF is warm to the touch -- I'm thinking that way, the heatsink will detach easier from the CPU.

Any thoughts from those who've removed HSF many times???

 

[pirred908]

It all depends on wether the HS is attached with paste or adhesive. If adhesive, having the computer warm would be an excellent idea. If its just paste, than it doesn't matter.

 

[Navid]

Originally posted by: kenny2004
Hey all,

I've never removed a HSF before and was wondering if it's easier to do when the computer is just turned off and that the HSF is warm to the touch -- I'm thinking that way, the heatsink will detach easier from the CPU.

Any thoughts from those who've removed HSF many times???

You are right. It is better to have it warmed up. Specially, if it is mounted with a thermal pad. The paraphine from the thermal pad flows and creates a strong bond. When cold, it is hard to remove.
If the sink is installed with adhesive, you cannot remove it that easily.

 

[kenny2004]

Thanks for the help. I am using the stock HSF, which AMD uses the thermal pad that comes attached to the heatsink.

As far as cleaning the CPU, I've read instructions on doing so, does the stuff come off easily with the Isopropyl alcohol, or is there a lot of scrubbing to do? Any feedback would be greatful...thanks.

 

[Navid]

The only challenge may be to remove the heat sink without pulling the CPU out of the socket with it!
That is why it is good to remove it when it is still warm.

It will be easy to remove the pad from the heat sink. Just peel it off.
Just don't use anything sharp that may scratch the surface of the heat sink.