Is removing Heatsink/CPU too much trouble ?

[Subhash]

I built my first PC in November and, touch wood, so far everything was working great. Just recently I have developed a small problem with my motherboard, ASUS P5GD1. I have a Pentium P4 LG775 CPU installed in it.

Newegg has gracefully set up an RMA for me but I am thinking if it would be too much problem removing the Heatsink/CPU from the motherboard, then I might as well live with the motherboard problem.

I am particularly concerned about the Heatsink and the cooling compound that was stuck on the bottom of the Heatsink when I first installed. Would it be easy enough to take it out and put it back in the new motherboard ?

I have two more days to decide if I should take apart my PC or just leave it as is.

Your ideas, suggestion, guidance in removing Heatsink/CPU will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

Subhash.

[Kareeser]

If you still have your manuals with you, the processor manual includes semi-detailed instructions to remove the heat sink/fan combo and processor.

Depending on what kind of heat distribution compound you have between your processor and heat sink, you may have to purchase more and re-apply it.

I'm not sure if thermal pads can be reused.

[Subhash]

Originally Posted by Kareeser If you still have your manuals with you, the processor manual includes semi-detailed instructions to remove the heat sink/fan combo and processor. Depending on what kind of heat distribution compound you have between your processor and heat sink, you may have to purchase more and re-apply it. I'm not sure if thermal pads can be reused.

I do have the instructions that came with it and Intel makes it sound very simple. Just 4 steps to remove the CPU, rotate fastners counterclockwise 90 degrees, pull each fastner, remove Heatsink and then remove CPU.

Will it really be that easy ?

There is no mention of compound used anywhere. Btw, what are thermal pads. When opened new, the heatsink had a white square pad stuck on the bottom, that looked like a very thin two way adhesive tape. Would I need another one of those to reinstall the Heatsink.

If any one knows a link to the Removal Guide with pictures and better yet with Video, that will be great.

Thanks.

[Cricket]

Originally Posted by Subhash I do have the instructions that came with it and Intel makes it sound very simple. Just 4 steps to remove the CPU, rotate fastners counterclockwise 90 degrees, pull each fastner, remove Heatsink and then remove CPU. Will it really be that easy ?

Yes.

Originally Posted by Subhash There is no mention of compound used anywhere. Btw, what are thermal pads. When opened new, the heatsink had a white square pad stuck on the bottom, that looked like a very thin two way adhesive tape. Would I need another one of those to reinstall the Heatsink.

I would remove the old thermal pad, clean both surfaces really well with alcohol and then apply Arctic Silver thermal compound.

Originally Posted by Subhash If any one knows a link to the Removal Guide with pictures and better yet with Video, that will be great.

Try this.

Cricket

[Subhash]

Originally Posted by Cricket Yes.I would remove the old thermal pad, clean both surfaces really well with alcohol and then apply Arctic Silver thermal compound

So, it is a must that I scrap off the old Thermal Pad from bottom of the Heatsink and apply new compound, Arctic Silver....

I can't reuse the old pad if the compound is still stuck to the Heatsink.

Right ?

[Alaron]

Right. The only way to ensure proper heat transfer is to remove the old compound and apply new.

[Subhash]

Originally Posted by Alaron Right. The only way to ensure proper heat transfer is to remove the old compound and apply new.

Now, does anyone know a place I can buy the Thermal Pads approved by Intel. I would prefer pads to the compound because then I don't worry about using too much or too little. I have been looking at Newegg but all what they have is different kind of compound and some copper thermal pads. I want to use exactly same stuff what came with the new Heatsink.

Thanks.

[Cricket]

Shop Intel: Thermal Interface Material (pad)

Cricket

[Subhash]

Originally Posted by Cricket Shop Intel: Thermal Interface Material (pad) Cricket

I went there and the price was also very reasonable at $1 but when I went to Checkout, their shipping to Canada was $20. I certainly don't want to pay $20 shipping on $1 item.

Any other place please ?

Thanks.

[glc]

In that case, I'd probably use thermal paste or a pad procured locally. Try a good computer store, they may even have Intel-approved pads back in the service department.