8 / TEST-FIT MONOBLOCK
Install your CPU in the socket, then place the monoblock in position
and make sure it fits. This step will help you place it quickly once you’ve
applied the thermal paste, which can sometimes be fiddly, as the
monoblock is designed to fit around other components.4 / KEEP SCREWS SAFE
As you’ll be dealing with lots of screws, it pays to keep them safe while
you’re dismantling your motherboard. Place the new components in one
tray and the old screws in another one, placing them in a bag or box with
the heatsinks when you’re done.
5 / REMOVE STOCK HEATSINKS
With the screws removed, gently try lifting the heatsink off the
motherboard. If it won’t detach, check you’ve removed all the screws.
If it still won’t budge, try blowing a hairdryer onto the heatsinks for 60
seconds to loosen the paste or pads beneath.
7 / CLEAN VRMS AND CPU
Thermal pads and paste can leave residue behind, so it’s important to
clean them to ensure your new thermal material can work as well as
possible. Use thermal paste cleaner or isopropyl alcohol to clean them
with a microfibre cloth.6 / REATTACH THERMAL PADS
If thermal pads were used to create the thermal layer between the
heatsink and components, make sure these pads are all attached to
the heatsink. Remove them from the motherboard if necessary, so
you can reinstall the heatsink at later date if needs be.
9 / APPLY CPU THERMAL PASTE
Apply thermal paste appropriately on your CPU as you would normally
(see Issue 189, p91). The monoblock installs like any other CPU
cooler; it just cools the VRMs too. You can use any paste, but most
waterblocks include some in the box.