Thermal paste
Thermal paste
I noticed some thermal paste left behind after installation. It might have affected the system’s stability, causing it to restart right after power-on. The heatsink movement and loose screw could have contributed, along with the paste buildup on the CPU. If this is causing shutdowns, you may need to carefully remove the paste and inspect the connections. Consider cleaning the socket area thoroughly before proceeding.
I don’t recall it being a gold shade and purchased from eBay recently.
100% brand new and top quality – Polysynthetic silver thermal compound paste enhances heat flow between CPU and heatsink/fan assembly. Each tube weighs 1.0g. Operates from -50 to 180°C. Offers over 3.05W/m·K thermal conductivity, less than 0.073°C·in²/W resistance. Contains 20% metal oxide compounds.
100% original and premium quality – our polysynthetic silver thermal paste boosts heat transfer between CPU and heatsink/fan – Each tube weighs 1.0g – Works down to -50°C to 180°C – Thermal conductivity exceeds 3.05W/m·K, resistance under 0.073°C·in²/W – Contains 20% metal oxide compounds; the CPU remains pristine, just the socket stays clean.
I noticed you can remove the plastic cover for the socket. This might be the simplest method to wipe away the paste and gently clean any residue on the pins below. It’s not risky at all. If the socket is already dead, there’s really no harm in trying.
I would simply apply the alcohol and some q-tips before handling the socket cover removal. Just soak the q-tip in the alcohol and use it. The IPA will thin the paste, making cleaning easier. Be careful not to leave any cotton fibers behind. I prefer these for tight areas: https://www.amazon.com/Pieces-Cleaning-P...07Z7YP6RK/ but it’s more of a treat than a must. A quick reminder—if you’re squeezing excessively, you’re likely applying too much thermal paste. Ideally, direct contact between the CPU heat spreader and the cooler’s thermal block provides optimal conduction. Thermal paste only serves to bridge the small gaps between metal surfaces. If the cooler slides due to the paste acting as a lubricant, that’s a clear sign you’ve overdone it.
I finished it cleaned up. I used a different pattern the last time and won’t repeat that. I left the cover on. It’s as tidy as possible—I even checked with a 6x magnifying glass to confirm. If it doesn’t start, it’s likely the CPU or the pins under the cover. The CPU itself looks good; all the pins are straight and clean. I’m excited about the new nzxt h6 flow case—it’ll fit better than my old one for a water cooler, and I think it will look great.