Dell Studio XPS 435T / 9000 (Early 2009) - Manual (Page 21)

1. Follow the procedures in Before You Begin .
2. Remove the computer cover (see Replacing the Computer Cover ).
3. Disconnect the processor fan cable from the connector (CPUFAN1) on the system board (see System Board Components ).
4. Carefully move away any cables that are routed over the processor fan and heat sink assembly.
5. Loosen the four captive screws securing the processor fan and heat sink assembly.
6. Lift the processor fan and heat sink assembly out of the computer, and set it aside.
7. To replace the processor fan and heat sink assembly, clean the thermal grease from the bottom of the heat sink.
8. Apply new thermal grease to the top of the processor.
9. Align the four captive screws on the processor fan and heat sink assembly with the holes on the system board.
10. Tighten the four captive screws that secure the processor fan and heat sink assembly.
WARNING: Despite having a plastic shield, the processor fan and heat sink assembly may be very hot during normal operation. Ensure that it has
had sufficient time to cool before you touch it.
CAUTION: The processor fan and heat sink assembly is a single unit. Do not try to remove the fan separately.
CAUTION: To ensure maximum cooling for the processor, do not touch the heat transfer areas on the processor heat sink. The oils in your skin
can reduce the heat transfer capability of the thermal pads.
CAUTION: When you remove the processor fan and heat sink assembly, lay it upside down or on its side to avoid damaging the heat sink thermal
interface.
1 processor fan and heat sink
assembly
2 processor fan and heat sink
assembly cable
3 captive screws (4)
NOTE: The processor fan and heat sink assembly in your computer may not look exactly as shown in the illustration above.
CAUTION: Ensure that you apply new thermal grease. New thermal grease is critical for ensuring adequate thermal bonding, which is a
requirement for optimal processor operation.
NOTE: Ensure that the processor fan and heat sink assembly is correctly seated and secure.