I've taken a few photos...











After applying the thermal compound, the problem still remains...

Now you can See the problem... any further thoughts or help?

I really appreciate your help so far by the way

Perhaps I was not clear, the thermal compound would have no effect on your ability to securely fasten the HSF - its purpose is solely to ensure maximum heat transfer.

As far as further thoughts or help, I have already suggested all that I can - pre-bend the brackets outside the case so they do not take so much force to secure, or buy a new fan that comes with more flexible brackets. I am not certain I would trust such a critical component as the CPU to a 99p HSF anyway. There are some things where quality trumps costs and cooling is one, a good power supply is the other.

BTW - That sure looks like a lot of thermal paste on there - you want as thin as possible, with full coverage.

Hey,

Thanks for all your help.

Good luck and keep us posted.

Very clear illustrations via your pictures. Nicely done.

(In the last picture) mis-alignment appears to be evident. I gather this is because one side is already clamped into position?

"What's strange is that you can actually get one side to clamp in, but when that side is clamped in okay, the whole thing lurches to that side, and then you can't get the other side clamped down."

This is common with very tight clamping systems. As Digerati stated;

"...try pre-bending the brackets outside the case to reduce the force required..."

and;

"You may have to attempt to attach both brackets at the same time to apply equal forces to either side."

You do not require vise-like pressure. A firm pressure is all that is required. The thermal compound takes care of the rest.


Heh, with a POST PREVIEW, I see that all this typing is probably redundant now. He's already been here while I was typing.

Thanks for all your help Dan.

I've twisted the brackets back, and it's now sat inside my new case. (Looking all very smart so far.)

I have applied the thermal grease prior to attaching the brackets.

I'm sure i will post again asking for more help... but until then, thanks for all your help guys

We're glad to help. It's the "old guy" Digerati that set you on the right track. I just thought I'd add a reinforcing comment or two. ;>)