Best way to remove old thermal paste?

[KCarter335]

I bought a MB/processor combo. It seems to already have a rectangular tan patch of compound on it. It's really thick and kind of dry. I can use a razor blade on the heat sink side, but whats the best way to get this stuff off of the processor? ArcticSilver is on its way! Thanks

[ephmynus]

I'd say a flat piece of plastic like a putty knife. I always use the little putty knife that comes in packages of arctic silver adhesive to remove them. Don't use anything metal. It has a tendancy to cut into the heatsink, thus not providing a flat contact surface between it and the core. If you've ever had to lap a heatsink before, you'll take appreciation in my words. Get a small plastic knife, scrape it off and then clean the underside of the heatsink with alcohol.

[Gameguru]

If you are going to remove it, you might also lap the heatsink. I guarantee that you will be happy with the results. As for removing the tape, I used an old credit card to scrape as much off as I could and then I took some Testors model paint thinner and a paper towel and it dissolved the rest right off.