How to remove thermal paste from ntb gpu?

KostWarCZE · October 20, 2017

"Use isopropyl noob!"

I had overheating issues on my ROG ntb so i open it and found whole GPU drowned in this schmoo.. I believe that it could be melted thermal pads and i don't have much success with cleaning that off.. Any tip about more effective way?

I tried to clean it with 99,6% isopropyl on microfiber, Ctops and home-made thin brush filled with isopropyl.... tried to melt it with heatgun.. dah..

Possibly some magic that could disolve it without damaging hardware? its sticky as clay and it won't go off tight spots.

(second img is after cleaning)

dcgreen2k · October 20, 2017

You could try to remove the stuff stuck on the sides of the chips with something small, like a paper clip. Then you would have to reapply some sort of thermal paste/pad, because it looks like the old thermal pads just melted off.

KostWarCZE · October 20, 2017

4 minutes ago, thegreengamers said:

You could try to remove the stuff stuck on the sides of the chips with something small, like a paper clip. Then you would have to reapply some sort of thermal paste/pad, because it looks like the old thermal pads just melted off.

I tried a needle and brush, but there are like 1/8 mm transistors which i don't want to damage..

Mick Naughty · October 21, 2017

Tooth brush and alcohol. Little heat couldn't hurt.

asand1 · October 21, 2017

Brian from Tech Yes City uses brake cleaner, as have I, with good results. YMMV. toothpicks are good for scraping out corners without damaging traces. Just use a gentle touch.