Strange socket 478 heatsink removal

[tracer0]

I've been taking apart an old Northwood system, finally up to removing the heatsink, and mine doesn't appear to be the same as any diagrams or videos I've come across.

Pics here - http://img831.imageshack.us/g/mobo1i.jpg/

Basically, most other heatsinks seem to have levers on opposing sides that are easy to lift, as per this vid - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNkJXTYZ9JE (skip to 1:20), however if you look at mine, particularly pic 3, there's a notch of metal seemingly preventing me from moving the lever upwards or downwards at all, and they're both facing the same way. I'm at a bit of a loss at the moment, so any help is appreciated 😵

 

[Zap]

Hello, and welcome to Anandtech forums.

The video shows an Intel heatsink from the retail box. Your pictures show an aftermarket heatsink. To remove your heatsink you will need to press DOWN towards the motherboard on the metal tab with the letters "AVC" on it. Then, while having it pressed DOWN, the you will need to push the tab towards the heatsink. Basically the tab is attached to a "J" shaped hook. Your third picture of the super closeup shows the hinge between the tab and the hook. The hooked part hooks on to the black plastic around the CPU socket. If it helps, use a slotted screwdriver to gently pry the metal hooked part away from the heatsink while you are pressing down on the tab, as it is sometimes difficult otherwise.

 

[tracer0]

Ah cheers, will give that a go. Thanks for the warm welcome 😎

Haha, success! You're a legend, been buggering with this thing all day :awe: