Test fit heatsink without thermal paste?

[cadefoster]

Sorry in advance if this is a stupid question . I'm just about to install my new noctua dh15 heatsink but I'm just a little worried about the mounting bracket alligntment. Can I test fit the heatsink on the cpu without thermal paste to make sure the fit is right? Any danger of the heatsink touching the CPU without thermal paste? I'm not powering on or anything and I'll of course add thermal paste once I know it fits right. Thanks!

 

[Gam3r01]

You can do a test fit, just as long as you dont turn it on (which you arent, it seems).
Just be careful not to scratch anything while youre doing it.

After you are comfortable with the installation procedure, go ahead and paste it up.

 

[cadefoster]

Thanks for the reply, think I could just put a little paper towel or something between the heatsink and CPU just to make sure nothing gets scratched?

 

[Gam3r01]

Honestly, that would just potentially leave lint behind. The "dont scratch it" is more of a general precaution for the first time doing a cooler install. Like dont drag the bracket across the processor.