Getting CPU heatsink off the motherboard.

[animeba]

I want to replace the default intel cpu cooler with a zalman to reduce noise. I'm having trouble getting the heatsink off. How much force does it take? What is the proper method for removing a heatsink. Do I just hold the mobo with one hand, the heatsink with the other, and just pull???? Any help or diagram is appreciated. (Intel supplies the heatsink installation diagrams, but doesn't have uninstall diagrams. Go figure.)

 

[CalvinHobbes]

Which heatsink is this? Is it a P4 CPU?

It helps if the CPU is warm as that may help to soften any thermal material.

For the P4's you simply lift the two gray/black levers that lock the heatsink down. You may need to unhook the clips from the retention pieces which can be a pain. There are four of them, two on each side. Once those are unhooked it simply lifts up. You may need to gently twist the heatsink to break any bond with the CPU.

The HSF on the right is the P4 heatsink I describe above:
http://pcsynapse.com/reviews/scythekamakaze/topcompare.jpg