[PLUG-TALK] Hardware: remove old cpu cooler with set thermal paste

[Rich Shepard]

My spare desktop has not been run in many months. In fact, it has a new hard
drive that's not been formatted, partitioned, or had the OS installed.

Since I'm upgrading hardware and the LAN I bought a replacement cooler for
the CPU, a Noctua NH-U9S for the AMD FX-8150 CPU in an AM3+ socket on the
Asus Sabertooth 990FX motherboard.

After releasing the cooler's tie-down clip and removing the brackets from the
backing plate I discovered that I could not budge the cooler. Searching the
web saw several fora threads suggesting the use of coarse dental thread; I
don't think there's sufficient room to ensure it's between the cooler and
CPU top plate and to manipulate it. Found a web page from AMD describing how
to attach and remove coolers and it suggested running the machine (the case
is on its side with the cooler sitting on the CPU) to warm the set thermal
paste. But without an OS when I plug in the power supply and turn it on only
a small light on the motherboard lights up; no fan movement or any other
sign of life.

I don't want to break the CPU pins or the socket and want ideas on how to
remove this old, OEM cooler so I can replace it. Preferably before the
December 21st clinic (assuming there will be one that day.)

Rich