heatsink re-use

[andreadebiase]

hi, i got a used heatsink that has a thermal pad. Can i reuse the thermal pad as is? if not, I could remove the pad and use thermal compund but i am wondering, which is the best way to scrape off the residues of the pad?
thanks

[kayofcircles]

I doubt if reusing the pad is a good idea. If this stuff doesn't work right, you're pretty much screwed. I believe my husband removed a pad with a razor blade...VERY VERY carefully..but don't know if that's the best way.

And here's a couple of posts..one of yours (lol..you getting as forgetful as me??)..about heatsinks and thermal paste.

Removing paste (http://www.pcguide.com/vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=5393&highlight=heatsink+cleaning)

cleaning/applying (http://www.pcguide.com/vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=5148&highlight=heatsink+cleaning) In this second one, BigBlue said he uses Goo Gone for removing pads.

[BigBlue66]

Hey,

Whew, glad I caught this one. Hope it's not too late.

Yes, I did use Goo Gone at one point, until somebody pointed out that the citrus oils it leaves behind would compromise the thermal interface.

Now, I use Goof Off. You can get it at Walmart. It really takes the goop off quick. (Use a plastic credit card type thing to scrape most of the old pad off first)

After that, I use 91% Isopropyl Alcohol, found at Walgreens for $1.29, for a final cleaning.

[ranchdog]

You posted that you have a used heatsink
with thermal pad.

These pads are a one time use affair. Use
your thumb nail to remove what's left of the pad.

Stop at your friendly Dollar Store and pick up a
10oz. bottle of pure acetone for a buck. It can be
found in the nail polish/remover section. Gets rid
of that glue-gunk easily without leaving residue.


RD

[andreadebiase]

Can I use acetone or isopropanol also on top of the core of the cpu? will it get damaged?

[ranchdog]

Not a problem on the CPU. Q-tips and pure acetone
do a fine task of removing Arctic Silver or remains
of a termal pad.

Here's a Link that will help:

http://www.arcticsilver.com/arctic_silver_instructions.htm


RD.

[rond36]

It is best not to use nail polish remover because most contain lanolin and leave an oily film. Use acetone from a hardware or paint store. Lacquer thinner works real well. A quart of acetone or Lacquer thinner cost about $3.00 at Wal-Mart and will last 20 or 30 years. I have a can of acetone that I have had for 11 years and it is still 3/4 full.