Is redoing the thermal paste worth it?

[!!!]

Hello, I currently have a 2011 Mac mini, and after installing an SSD, I'm wondering if putting new thermal paste on is a good idea? If it is, how did you get the old thermal paste off?

 

[Altis]

I would only recommend it if you're having temperature issues with the CPU.

When I did it, I removed the CPU heat sink and wiped the CPU top with a cloth. I then did it again with a bit of rubbing alcohol. Do the same to the heat sink side, then apply the new stuff and put it back together.

 

[ActionableMango]

Considering how fragile some of the connectors are, you have some risk every time you go inside one of these things. Many people here thought they were being careful with a SSD/HDD install but still broke a connector anyway.

So I wouldn't go inside the Mini to fix something that ain't broke. I agree with @Altis... unless you are having temp problems, don't do it.

 

[grcar]

Hello, I currently have a 2011 Mac mini, and after installing an SSD, I'm wondering if putting new thermal paste on is a good idea? If it is, how did you get the old thermal paste off?

There is an ifixit instruction page just for 2011 mac minis.

https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Mac+Mini+Mid+2011+Heat+Sink+Replacement/6418

 

[oldtime]

What would you guys diagnose as "temp problems"? My 2011 runs pretty hot, but it doesn't quite seem in dire need of a fix just yet...

 

[MatthewAMEL]

Absolutely worth it. I have a 2012 i7 (2.6) Mini Server that runs headless with 2 attached Drobos.

I have scripts that run Handbrake on the ATV3 preset, tag and copy into my iTunes library. Pre Arctic Silver, I would throttle at 99C after 2 minutes. Post Arctic Silver, I hit 97C and never throttle.

Ambient temp is ~76F, the Mini is on a mStand from Rain Design to ensure airflow.