Lifted heatsink, need to replace thermal paste?

[kaashif]

Hi,

During some troubleshooting, I lifted my heatsink not knowing better and I remember reading somewhere that the thermal paste must be reapplied when this is done. Is this true?

I'm not even sure if I have thermal paste or pad...

 

[AKM880]

Well I lifted my heatsink for only 5min and I just left the TIM on there, usually I reapply thermal paste. Use something like Isopropyl Alcohol 91% or higher.

 

[marco324]

always a good idea to clean both surfaces with alcohol pads any drug store and reapply thermal paste but not always necessary check your temps if there good no problem ?

 

[ragsters]

I don't care what anyone says you should always reapply TIM after removing the heatsink.