How should I clean a P4 processor?

[egl2004]

I recently dissassembled my computer to discover that cooling compound had run all down the sides of my processor (478 pin P4). I used rubbing alchohol to removed the compound from the top, but I realized after the fact the as the compund began to dissolve, it had run down into the pins. I now have the entire processor immersed in alcohol to try to dissolve the compound. Was this a smart thing to do? What should I do about it? I'm worried I may have ruined my processor by getting wet.

[Tin]

as long as there isnt any electricity going to your processor it should be fine. i would let it air dry for a couple days just to make sure.

[egl2004]

Thanks. How much cooling compound should I have used to start with? I think I used too much when I installed the processor.

[Cricket]

You only need a very light smear of compound on the raised part of the CPU (the heat spreader) and the bottom of the heatsink. If you use too much compound, it acts like an insulator and inhibits heat transfer and your CPU runs hotter. With thermal compound, more is not better.

Cricket

[QuickSilver]

I doubt if the processor will be affected by the alcohol. Alcohol also is very volitile, so it should evaporate quickly. If you leave it dry for a while, it should be fine.