Heatsink removal for compound replacemet

[Moth]

I've just recently assembled my first pc, and I'd like to know if my processor is running too hot (I suspect it is) and if I should attempt to reapply a new heatsink compound. I used an Athlon xp 1700+ (set at 1466 mhz) on a Biostar motherboard, with 512 mb ddr ram.

I used a mid-size system tower, and I've replaced my unused drive bay covers with wire mesh & installed 4 case fans (2 intake - lower front & 2 exhaust - upper rear). The wiring/cables are as removed from the airflow and as neat as I can tie them.

Unfortunately, I used the preapplied heatsink grease (or tape/compund - whatever was on the heatsink, under the removable plastic cover) when attatching the heatsink unit (Cooler Master DP5-6I31C). I've since read that aftermarket compounds are much better.

The cpu settles at 58' centigrade when idle, but gets up to 67' C when it's working hard (admittedly, it runs 4 degrees cooler with the side covers off - but I don't want to leave it that way).

Is it possible and reasonable to separate the heatsink from the cpu without damaging anything, so that I can clean them and apply a good compound? Will they be stuck together? (It's probably run about 6 hours all together.) Is it worth it - or can I not clean them effectively enough to get the old compound out of the microscopic imperfections so that a better compound makes a difference?

Any thoughts on the subject would be much appreciated.
Thanks,
Andre

[Cricket]

Hi Moth,

Yes, your CPU temps are pretty high for a XP processor. Using something like Artic Silver will help drop the temps a little, but I think there's something else going on here. It sounds like the heatsink isn't making good contact with the CPU core.

Also, are you overclocking? If you are, you should think about getting a better heatsink. Do a search of the forum and you'll find lots of threads about heatsink recommendations.

Also, check to see if the heatsink is sitting flat and level on the CPU core. Make sure the recessed portion of the heatsink is over the raised portion of the socket. Also make sure that the heatsink is not hanging up on a capacitor, diode or resistor that may be sitting close to the socket. Check that the bent portion of the metal clip that holds down the heatsink is centered over the CPU core.

The Artic Silver website has instructions on how to use their product as well as how to clean the old compound from the CPU core.

Cricket

[mike breck]

Yes it will be worth it and no they won't be stuck together. Thermal Pads or paste are not adhesive.

You can use Q-Tips and an old soft toothbrush dipped in pure Alcohol (isopropyl), Goof Off, acetone, MEK, or mineral spirits to remove the Thermal Pad residue from the CPU.

How to get all the thermal pad material off the base of the heatsink is another matter. I found I could scape most of Thermal Pad material off the bottom of the Heatsink with my thumbnail.

You will note that Artic say that ideally their paste should be applied to a new heatsink with no residues of other thermal substances. The reason for this is the previous substance will fill the microscopic imperfections and reduce the Artic Silver's effectiveness.

To return the base of the heatsink to pristine condition, my solution is to lap the base of the heatsink. To do this, put a sheet of very fine "wet & dry" sandpaper face-up on a piece of glass (a small mirror would do) and gently rub the base of the Heatsink in a figure of eight pattern.

Just keep on lapping until there is no TIM residue left and you can see clean, shiny metal. Then give the base a good clean with a cloth dipped in 99% pure Alcohol (isopropyl), Goof Off, acetone, MEK, or mineral spirits.

It's maybe too fussy for some, but I believe if you are going to do a job, then do it well.

[Moth]

Hi Cricket,
From one insect to another: Thanks very much - that sounds like good advice - I didn't know to watch carefully the contact area. I went to the Arctic Silver site, and I will try changing the grease and being careful about contact area, as per your suggestions. No, I'm not overclocking, but I may look into a better heatsink unit as well. Thanks again.

[Moth]

Thanks Mike,
That's very helpful - I will certainly attempt the modification now. And I couldn't agree more: I wouldn't have tried to build a pc if I wasn't ready to invest the time required to make something useful. You advice is very much appreciated.
Holy crow this is a great site! People here volunteer their time most generously! I found the site when I searched for info on building a pc. David Risely's article on the subject (Build Your Own PC) was so helpful that I didn't hesitate to attempt it. PC Mech is a real find. Thanks to everyone!

[Blakhart]

Heh heee one insect to another!
Moth, use a hard plastic scraper like a credit card or even a razor if you are carefull to remove heat sink grease. I have cleaned heatsinks and cpus(non slot style) in the sink with dish soap in warm water and then a good rinsing. Let dry for an adequate time.
Get the cables out of the way (as per the cable routing thread) and do not bump the hsf after you have applied the pookie and it has taken a set. If you do, the set that the artic silva takes will be broken. Good luck dropping them temps

[Moth]

Blakhart - Tanks fer da tip! Hearin' whats worked fer udder folks has da best ring.
Much obliged!