a7n8x northbridge heatsink

[Swedishlf]

How do I remove the northbridge heatsink on my Asus a7n8x? Do I have to remove the mobo from the case to do it?
I wanted to get some AS3 on there and maybe add a fan. there are two little black retension clips that have push buttons on the tops. Nothing happens when I push them though.

Thoughts? Thanks.

[ThreeOnTheTree]

Not sure about the Asus, but I worked on a shuttle board before. I think you have to get to the backside to undo them. The ends of the plastic clips expand to secure it to the mobo. A needle nose pliars should do the job, just don't scratch the board. Once you get those undone, you will find that the thermal epoxy they use to be pretty sticky, so some gentle prying may be required. Rubbing alcohol and a q-tip should get the remaining goo off.

[Todd a]

I think you need to pull the pin out of the middle of the clip first, then pull the plastic clip out.

[Swedishlf]

taken care of, it was just a matter of pinching the clippy parts of the pins that held down the HS. I did have to remove the motherboard from the case though.

There was a gummy pink substance attached to the heatsink though, and almost none of it was left on the chip. I replaced it with arctic silver 3 and made sure it had good contact. I haven't put a fan on it yet though.

I'll let you know if this helps me get over my FSB hump at right around 170!

Thanks for the tips!