Apple Xserve (Early 2008) DIY Procedure for Heat Ssink - Manual (Page 7)

Xserve (Late 2006/Early 2008) Processor Heat Sink Replacement Instructions 7
Caution: Each heat sink is connected to the logic board by a small 2-pin thermal sensor 2.
cable. Lifting the heat sink too quickly can damage the cable or connector. Because of
the tight thermal bond between the processor and heat sink, be especially cautious to
initially lift the heat sink no more than one centimeter (1 cm) off the processor. Do not
pull on the cable as you lift the heat sink enough to disconnect the cable from the logic
board.
Slowly raise the heat sink off the processor just far enough that you can reach the sensor
cable connector.
Pull on the connector, not the cable, to disconnect the sensor cable from the logic board. 3.
Lift the heat sink straight up and out of the enclosure. 4.