Do I need to reapply thermal paste?

[jachamberlain]

I attached my Raystorm CPU water cooling block to my 3930k 2 days ago. The rig has been booted up for a couple of hours whilst I installed the OS and familiarised myself with the BIOS settings available but has been on standby since.

I've decided I want to attach my fan controller's temp probes to the outside edge of the copper cooling block. I'm doing this just to get some rough CPU temp readings so my rad fans can automatically be kicked up a notch when things get a little heated.

My question is: If I remove the block from the CPU to quickly attach the sensors will I need to reapply the thermal paste? I've not got any isopropyl alcohol or spare thermal paste lying around so want to know if I'll need to pick up more before taking stuff to pieces!

Thanks

[ajones]

I think I would be tempted, given that it's only been a couple of days, to just use a plastic edge to reapply the paste that's already on there.

However, I'd probably try applying the heat sesnors to the water block without removing it first.

[HalloweenJack]

try applying the sensor first , but unless you`ve done a full heat cooling cycles its likely still liquidish

[Biscuit]

As above you will probably be ok. I would suggest picking some IPA up anyway just incase you smudge it on something in the process and need to clean it off. Remember a lot of TIM is actually conductive so it can be dangerous for your system!

[jachamberlain]

Cool, thanks for the info everyone!

[Macadee]

I'm sure you won't, but don't put the sensor between the block and the cpu mating surfaces, no matter how thin it is.

Could use Speedfan as an alternative to control fan/temps.

[simplicity96]

Id always re-apply just for peace of mind to be honest. If the block comes off just so there are no air pockets caused or such.

[insomnia84]

I would and always do.