Need some help replacing heatsink

[Superfoot]

Hi all,
Any help would be appreciated. I have a 1200mhz Tbird in a Abit KT7A mobo, not overclocked. Not exactly sure what my heatsink/fan is (I'm at work ) but I think it is one of the Coolermasters. The problem I'm having is when I go to install a program my system locks after a few seconds. I'm pretty sure the issue is heat because I finally removed the side panel on my case and was able to completely install Links 2001 which is 1.1gigs full install. Before removing the panel in locked up everytime. The weird thing is it didn't seem like the processor was getting much above 53 or 54c, which is warm but not abnormal under full load. So I'm going to make some changes to my case and install a new heatsink. My question is, when I remove the old heatsink what is the best way to clean all the old thermal material off the processor without hurting it. And any tips to applying thermal paste to the new heatsink would be appreciated. I think I'm going to go with a Global WIN WBK38 or a Swiftech MC462. Thanks guys!

 

[WarCon]

Since motherboard thermistors are very inaccurate, its hard to say what the real core temp is. I do know that my Athlon destabilizes in the same temp range on the same motherboard as you so its probably normal. You just need a better hsf and/or better circulation in your case. If you can afford it the Swiftech is the better pick.

 

[Superfoot]

Thanks WarCon I was leaning toward that one, it's just a little pricey Any tips on cleaning the old thermal material off the processor die anyone? I heard alcohol works best but I would like to hear from someone who has done it successfully. Also any tips on applying Artic Silver. How much to use, and over what areas of the heatsink. Thanks!