Removing Gunk From Atop A Processor

[deltablues]

I hope this is a pretty simple, almost stupid question. How do you safely remove the residue from an old heatsink from atop a processor(intel if it matters). I bought some silver compound and want to give it a shot, but I read that the surfice should be clean. I realize that the CPU is a delicate thing, so I don't think I want to take a razor blade to it or anything of that nature.

Any bit of time for a response would be awesome. thanks.

 

[jeremy]

read here http://www.neoseeker.com/Hardware/faqs/kb/2,31.html

 

[deltablues]

appreciate the quick response. Exactly what I needed.