Thermal Tape Removal

[SPaReK]

I' ve been running a T-Bird 1.1Ghz for 9 months. Recently it died, and I think the motherboard was the culprit. I'm still waiting for my motherboard to arrive, but I will have to remove the processor and HSF from the old motherboard when it does. Do I need to reapply some thermal goop to the HSF? I used the thermal tape on the HSF (FOP32) before, and have no experience with thermal goop. A friend of mine has some Artic Silver I can use (and he may be able to help with application). My main question is, how do I get the thermal tape (or the residue) off? I am correct to assume that it needs to come off before I apply the Artic Silver? Do I really need to use the Artic Silver (or any thermal goop) or will whats left of the thermal tape be good enough? If you can point me to a step-by-step how to on how to remove thermal goop or tape off a processor and HSF that has been in use, that would be greatly appreciated. If you have a how to on how to apply thermal goop, I can use that too.


Thanks

[Hoot]

I've never seen a step-by-step instruction on it. It's kind of a learn as you process. Obviously, there are two parts to the process. First you have to separate the HSF base from the CPU core without wreaking havoc and then you have to get the tape off of both of them. Several people have reported that it is easier if you warm it first. Foremost, make sure the PC is turned off before you begin. Heat the HSF with a hair blow dryer and once it is as hot as you can stand toughing it, with slow, continuous pressure, pry them apart. They may come apart easily or they may fight you. Perserverance and patience are the rule. Once you get them apart, pick off as much of the tape as you possibly can with your fingers. Once you have as much off as you can get, then clean both surfaces repeated ly with some kind of solvent. Some people use fingernail polish remover, lighter fluid, alcohol, etc. Find a good solvent. I personally would not use any kind of detergent and water combo though. I like good ole Gumout carburetor cleaner. Once youa re satisfied that the core and HSF base are as clean as they will get, then put the AS on the core. If you can't figure it out, I believe they have instructions on their web site.
If you want to achieve ultimate effectiveness with your FOP-32, Lap the surface of it. How to articles abound around the Web. a simple search will turn up plenty of them. Good Luck

Hoot