Replacing heatsink

[Stg-Flame]

While harvesting the DVD drive from my PC to use in the computer I just built, I noticed my heatsink's fan was incredibly stiff. I turned it on and as I feared, the fan won't spin. I've never replaced a heatsink before, so I was wondering if anything special has to be done or if it's a simple case of wipe off old thermal paste, apply new thermal paste, and plug in the new heatsink. Also, if I have to wipe off the old paste, is there anything I should avoid using?

 

[IEC]

Nope. Just clean off old thermal paste, clean heatsink, reapply new paste, attach heatsink.

You should use isopropyl alcohol (70% minimum, 95%+ is best) and a paper towel/qtips to remove the old thermal paste.

 

[Yuriman]

Chances are good you can just replace the fan, if it's a standard size.

 

[Stg-Flame]

Chances are good you can just replace the fan, if it's a standard size.

I don't know why I didn't think of this. The fan just clips on the side of the heatsink and I know I have a ton of spare fans sitting in random boxes from previous builds. Thanks a lot.

Nope. Just clean off old thermal paste, clean heatsink, reapply new paste, attach heatsink.

You should use isopropyl alcohol (70% minimum, 95%+ is best) and a paper towel/qtips to remove the old thermal paste.

Good to know. I didn't want to risk damaging my CPU if I have to replace the entire heatsink so thanks for that information.

 

[Fanatical Meat]

I've remounted two and put one new one on. I'll be honest it's alway scary but watch a few YouTube videos and all will be fine.

 

[edcoolio]

Good answers here.

100%, replace the fan if you are taking the thing apart and there is ANY type of possible issue!

 

[ehume]

I replaced a lot of heatsinks -- I used to test them. I'll probably get back in the game with Coffee Lake. Use 90% isopropyl alcohol -- you can get it cheap in the US. Rubbing alcohol. But if you simply want to replace your heatsink's fan, find a PWM fan. They are the best.

Overall, have fun. Playing with heatsinks and fans is loads of fun.