23 / REPLACE HEATSPREADER
With the adhesive applied, carefully lift the heatspreader and place it
back onto the CPU in the correct orientation.26 / WIPE OFF EXCESS ADHESIVE
Use a cotton bud to remove any excess adhesive from the outside.
Run the cotton bud along the join between the heatspreader and the
CPU to clear it away.24 / INSERT CPU INTO TOOL
The Delid tools include a clamp that can be used to fix the heatspreader
and CPU together while the adhesive dries. Carefully lift the CPU and
place it in the CPU slot (the correct way around), so it’s seated evenly.27 / RETEST FOR TEMPERATURES
We found our overclocked Core i9-7900X’s load temperature fell
from a toasty peak 104°C and 97°C average after ten minutes at load to
a healthier 90°C peak and 87°C average, but the star of the show was
our Core i7-8700K, which fell from a peak of 97°C to just 74°C, with the
average dropping from 91°C to just 69°C.MODDING / HOW TO GUIDES
22 / APPLY SILICONE ADHESIVE
It’s best to secure the heatspreader to the CPU as soon as you’re done with
the paste, or it can move around. Use silicone adhesive, applied sparingly to
the underside edges of the heatspreader.25 / SECURE CLAMP
Tighten the clamp so it’s finger-tight with a low amount of force – this
pressure will ensure any excess adhesive is forced out. You’ll have
a few minutes before it starts to set, so if the heatspreader moves,
there’s time to loosen the clamp and realign it if necessary.