Building a new PC, should I change the thermal paste?

[Connorwarman_12]

So I recently built an old PC that broke after a short amount of use. I took all the componets out including the heatsink with the thermal paste on it. And returned the MB. Its been a week and my new MB has arrived and before I build the PC I need to know.

Should I put on some new thermal paste, the heatsink has been sitting out. But the current thermal paste is still wet. So I figure no...just let me know.

 

[chugot9218]

Yes you have to reapply anytime you remove the heat sink.

 

[Connorwarman_12]

Yes you have to reapply anytime you remove the heat sink.

Even if it is still sticky? Do you think it would be ok if I booted up my PC and checked the temp on the BIOS?

 

[chugot9218]

It will probably be okay to check the temps but they will probably be high, the fact that it is still "sticky" doesn't matter, some of it may have dried and I doubt it will spread correctly if replaced. The issue is that there can easily be air bubbles in the paste that will interrupt heat transfer.

 

[Connorwarman_12]

Got it, well looks like im headed out to the local PC shop. Thanks for the input.

 

[Connorwarman_12]

Best answer selected by Connorwarman_12.