I'm trying to take off my LC-Power LC-CC-124-ARGB-TB RGB CPU cooler to replace the thermal paste, but I'm a bit puzzled about the mounting system. I have a few questions:
1. What type and size of screwdriver do I need to loosen the screws?
2. The screws are in shallow holes, and the fan is blocking them. How can I get to and loosen these screws?
3. There's a metal spring in the center of the cooler. What does it do, and should I do anything with it while removing the cooler?
I want to ensure I can do this safely without damaging my CPU or motherboard, so any guidance, tips, or even a video tutorial would be really appreciated! Thanks in advance.
4 Answers
Just to add, when it's time to remove the screws, caution is key! Make sure you’re in a well-lit area to see everything clearly. If you find any resistance, double-check that you’ve released all the necessary parts before proceeding.
Yeah, this is the cooler that has that bowl look with an ARGB fan on top, right? There are some metal tabs on the sides that secure the cooler to the motherboard. The screws you're dealing with actually hold a bracket that the tabs hook to. You can use a flathead screwdriver to push down and pry those tabs off the hooks; it's quite similar to how AMD Wraith coolers attach.
To remove the cooler, you first need to release the mounting bracket. That metal spring you see is crucial; just push down on its ends and move it out from under the ring that's holding it to the motherboard. After that, you can use the #2 Phillips screwdriver to take out the mounting screws. Here’s a link for the manual if you need more detailed steps: [Installation Manual](https://gzhls.at/blob/ldb/d/0/6/9/f320c20ebe9d6c049ef1b0d7c6c41a13e215.pdf).
For your screwdriver, you’ll generally need a #2 Phillips head. Also, it might help to look for an installation video that shows the removal process in reverse. This will give you a clear view of what to do. By the way, if you're using an Intel cooler, it might even just have push-pins instead of screws!
I've been looking for videos too, but I only found a couple in German that focus on how well these fans work, not on removal. Hopefully someone shares a better one!
So, to reapply thermal paste, I just need to press down on the spring and remove the fan? Should I only push on the part that sticks out, or do I need to press on the tucked-in side too? Also, thanks for the manual link!