My CPU is stuck to the heatsink, what should I do to remove it?
My CPU is stuck to the heatsink, what should I do to remove it?
Hi all,
I recently purchased new components for my build, such as a new CPU and heatsink. However, when trying to remove the heatsink, it didn't come off easily even after some time. Eventually, with minimal force, the heatsink came away while the CPU remained attached—appearing to be firmly connected. I believe the CPU pins are still intact.
The parts in question are the Ryzen 7 3700X and the AMD Praith Prism that came with it. This might be relevant, but I've been using this system for five years without any temperature problems or other issues.
After some research, I attempted to warm the heatsink using a hair dryer, but even when it became quite hot, the CPU didn't move. I also tried inserting a pin under it, but there was no space at all—almost as if it was welded in place.
I'm cautious about making any adjustments, as I don't want to risk damaging the CPU before reselling it. Any suggestions would be very helpful!
Consider trying this alternative approach; use a hairdryer or heat gun to apply mild warmth to the heatsink, avoiding the CPU itself, and attempt to carefully lift the processor with tweezers. Note that this method was used for AMD CPUs before the AM5 platform.
Try using a knife to attempt the same procedure.
Watch the video for guidance.
If unsuccessful, use a wooden or plastic spatula with a hammer.
Position the cooler on a soft, padded surface to prevent damage.
Secure the cooler firmly to avoid movement.
Press the spatula against the CPU heat spreader and gently strike the handle with the hammer.
Adjust the force until the CPU detaches.
Be aware that if the CPU falls onto a hard surface, pins may bend.
I would attempt that as well using 90+% IPA. It might help to lubricate the joint.
I've looked up the temperature of a hair dryer and discovered it's typically +50 to +100°C. The Ryzen 3700X has a maximum operating temperature of +95°C., but it should be able to withstand higher temperatures briefly.
When components are soldered, they reach over +300°C with "normal" lead free solder. Even low melting point Indium solder, as used inside some CPUs between the die and IHS, the melting point is around +157°C.
If you don't have any luck inserting a flat blade under one corner of the CPU, you could try more heat. I have a hot air soldering tool, so I'd probably set it to around +100°C and heat up the CPU and heatsink until it was too hot to touch without gloves. If you use a heat gun, set it to the lowest temperature and take care.
If that fails and I was desperate, I'd clamp the CPU tightly in a padded vice, apply loads of heat, then gently twist the heat sink back and forth. There's the risk of destroying the CPU if it slips out of the vice, but the alternative is to sell the CPU still attached to the heatsink.
Good luck with any solvents. It could take days or weeks to dissolve all the way into the middle of the heatsink/CPU interface. Very dry TIM might be virtually insoluble. Brute force may be the only solution.
I've generally found twisting and sliding the heatsink a better alternative to prising or lifting.