Question about re-applying thermal paste

[kershner]

So I've sent in a DOA mobo about 5 days ago, it should be getting back to me here in about the next 4-5 days.

My processor/CPU fan have just been sitting around in boxes for this time, my question is:do I need to re-apply or remove the paste that's already on them? If so, what's the best/easiest way to go about this?

Thanks!

 

[veedubfreak]

If it has already been mounted once, yes you should clean it and put new on. A grain of rice size in the middle for a dual core and a small line for a quad core.

 

[kershner]

Best way to clean it off there?

And my Core Contact Freezer said to be liberal with the paste in lieu of the base design of the cooler...any insight about that?

 

[veedubfreak]

The core contact is uneven if i recall due to the exposed heat pipes, but not sure. I have only ever used coolers with normal bases lapped flat. A coffee filter and rubbing alcohol is probably the cheapest. I have a stockpile of those alcohol swabs for cleaning it as my mom is a nurse

 

[Hefemeister]

rubbing alcohol to remove. You do not want too much thermal paste. Small line should be more than plenty.