1. Remove all traces of thermal pads or other compound form the heat sink and the CPU core surfaces. Use a lint free cloth low residue solvent such as isopropyl alchohol or acetone (nail polish remover) to clean the mating surfaces completly. Make absolutely sure the surfaces are free of foreign materials such as old compund, hair, lint, or oil from fingers. NOTE: NEVER use any oil or petroleum based cleaners (WD-40, citrus based grease removers, or other automotive degreasers) to clean the surfaces.
2. Put a finger into a CLEAN plastic bag and apply a small amount of Thermal Grease to the outside of the bag. To apply the compound, use a circular motion to rub the compound onto the base of the heat sink only where the CPU core will contact it. Use a LINT FREE cloth to wipe surface, leaving a thn layer of compound. DO NOT use any solvent or fluid this time.
3. Slowly and carefully squeez onto the CPU core an amount of compund equal to about 1/2 the size of an uncooked grain of white rice, or 1/3 of a BB. You want JUST ENOUGH to thinly cover the core completly, without excess. Larger CPUs will require more compound, smalled CPUs less.
4. Use a razor blade or the clean edge of a piece of paper to spread the compound over the core in a thin layer. Do not get excess compound on sides of core or other CPU components.
NOTE
O NOT use your finger to apply or smooth the compund.
5. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to secure the heat sink. Minimize any "twisting" or lateral "sliding".
As I sit up in my bed looking at all the stars, I begin to wonder... WHERE THE HECK IS MY ROOF!?