Socket A

[LifeStealer]

Are socket A sinks a pain to take off or is it just me? Evertime I take one off I feel like I'm going to end up crushing the chip.

 

[CraigRT]

Depends on which sink, but the factory ones can be a pain yes... (I don't really have any problems but I've done it so many times)

 

[PingSpike]

Some of them come on and off pretty easy. Others, I almost have to throw my weight onto the clip and use a second screwdriver to pop it over the little plastic hooks. I've never damaged a chip applying a HSF, but I'll be damned if I don't sweat just a little everytime I install one.

For cheap coolers, I found the Speeze WisperRock II to be pretty easy to get on.

I put on an AMD retail cooler today that was cake as well.

 

[sandorski]

Use a screwdriver or pliers and it comes off real easy.

 

[Zardnok]

Originally posted by: LifeStealer
Are socket A sinks a pain to take off or is it just me? Evertime I take one off I feel like I'm going to end up crushing the chip.

I had problems removing the various Thermaltake heatsinks I used, but I learned a little trick that eased my mind. I removed the fan from the top of the heatsink and set it aside. Then I got a second screwdriver and pressed down in the middle of the metal strap that held the HS in place.
Then took a 2nd screwdriver and pushed the clip out and released both screwdrivers downward pressure.

Before I learned this little trick, I was always worrying I was going to break something. Now I just pop 4 screws off and have peace of mind.