Detach CPU Fan from Heatsink (images)

[CCurious]

I would like to detach my CPU fan from the heatsink so i can clean it. It comes as a single unit and sits atop the CPU (via metal screws). I notice that the fan is attached to the heatsink using black plastic thingies. No clue what they are. I don't want to break them off to free the fan from the heatsink. See attached images below (red arrow). How do i detach this fan?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Barty1884]

Should be as simple as squeezing in the little plastic latches & applying a little bit of force to remove it.

 

[DRagor]

I would remove heatsink first. Since removing fan will take some force, it is safer to do that outside of motherboard, just in case your tool/hand slips and his something. Better safe then sorry.