How to Remove a Processor Fused to a Heatsink

A heatsink helps to keep a computer's processor from getting too hot. When it's time to replace the processor, the extreme heat sometimes fuses the two items together. Plus too much thermal compound can make the problem even worse. It is possible to remove a fused processor, but you have to be extremely careful not to do any damage.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Screwdriver
• 90 to 95% isopropyl alcohol
• Dental floss

1. Shut down the computer. Unplug the computer from the electrical outlet. Remove the cords from the back of the CPU.
2. Open the computer case with a screwdriver to expose the processor and the heatsink. Remove the pair from the computer shell by releasing any clips that hold them in place.
3. Pull the processor straight up from the heatsink with your hands. If that doesn't work, gently rock the processor side by side. If rocking doesn't let you remove the fused processor from its heatsink, try gently twisting the processor. Do not bend the pins and do not use a sharp metal object to try to separate the two.
4. Soak the processor in 90 to 95% isopropyl alcohol for less than 5 minutes to loosen the thermal compound between the processor and the heatsink. Anything longer than that may damage the processor.
5. Pull off a length of dental floss. Start the dental floss on one corner. If you cannot get the floss to release the heatsink from the first corner, try another corner.
6. Try to work one end of floss between the heatsink and the processor. Gently pull the floss from one side to the other until the fused processor pops off the heatsink.

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