How do I remove the fan from my cooler?

[CreateSean]

I"m upgrading my cpu and thus need to remove the cooler, but it appears that I first need to remove the fan from the coolling fins. I've tried pulling the metal clips on the site, but it feels like they are going to break.

 

Cooler is Noctua NH-U9S

 

Is there a better way?

 

 

[NelizMastr]

You need to pull the metal clip backwards slightly and then outwards, it's designed to have a bit of mounting pressure.

[tkitch]

Pull back then out: 

 

the metal IS designed to flex while doing this

 

[CreateSean]

@NelizMastr @tkitch Thank you both. Got it off and replaced my CPU.