Removing Artic Silver 5

[RobFDB]

In a couple of days im getting a new heatsink, Thermalright SP-97, for my computer. My current heatsink has been on my CPU for about 6 months now, which is an Alpha PAL8045 and Barton 2800+ respectivly. When i told one of my friends about not having anything to remove the old AS5 from my CPU core he said he had some stuff he had used, but he'd only used it on his heat sink, and not his CPU. Anyway the liquid is methylated spirits (ethanol solution UN 1170) and is apparantly water based according to my friend. Anyway is this stuff safe to use on my CPU core to remove my old AS5, and if not what would be best to use?

*Note: Im in the UK so suggesting US brands wont be good ^_^

 

[jhurst]

I think just about anything is safe as long as you use it correctly. Whether it is water-based or oil-based, just don't allow it to seep everywhere. Keep it contained. When you are done, make sure you dry everything very good.

I just use regular 70% isopropyl alcohol, removes my AS5 easily.

 

[SniperMerc]

Charcoal Lighter Fluid. Q Tips.

 

[Algere]

Could be, I personally use Isopropyl Alcohol(91%)

 

[HardWarrior]

Goof off on a q-tip to remove the AS5, followed by another q-tip dipped in denatured alcohol.

 

[Zepper]

I think Arctic Silver recommends acetone - that's what I use followed by an alcohol rinse. But be careful, acetone is very flammable and is very rough on some plastics.
. IAC, AS has a very thorough user guide on their site for applying and removing. Just print it out.
.bh.

 

[ericgl]

I use acetone. (too often)