How to Change, replace and Install new CPU Fan

Replacing CPU cooler or fan requires some skills and knowledge about computer hardware and basic principles of their structure so if you do not possess any of these prerequisites I suggest you to leave it to a computer technician. For others this task should not be a huge problem as long as you follow this article. No worries though. I created a short video to demonstrate how to replace cpu fan on ASUS P5KPL-AM motherboard. Any other motherboard will do just fine as well as long as it holds one of Intel's CPUs because replacing fan on AMD processors is slightly different.


Before you start make sure you UNPLUG all power cables from power source. I also recommend you to be extremely careful by using any sharp objects while removing fan such as screwdriver as you can easily damage or scratch motherboard.
I used hi-performance AKASA AK-965 CPU cooler with 3 heat-pipes to replace loud Intel's stock core 2 duo fan. Steps I took in doing so are as follows.

-unwind all 4 Intel's reference push pins
-unplug fan's power cord
-gently remove fan with both hands
-make sure CPU surface is clean before continuing
-apply thin layer of thermal grease on CPU surface in case cooler doesn't come pre-applied
-place new fan on motherboard until all 4 pins are aligned into their fittings
-press pins down until you hear clicking sound
-turn pins for 90 with degrees for reliable retention (use screwdriver)
-plug in 3-4 pin power cable to motherboard



At the very end you may want to go to BIOS and set advanced fan options to take advantage of PWM feature which adjusts fan speed according to CPU temperature. This feature could considerably silent your new cooler so it is worth trying it out.

How to Change, replace and Install new CPU Fan