Heatsink cleaning techniques?

[amazingrando]

I bought some second-hand GPUs (non-reference) that are think with dust.  I've used compressed air and a small brush to get out most of the dust, but there's still a fine layer of dust on everything.

Anyone have any suggestions on how to get them cleaner?  I've heard rubbing (not drinking) alcohol can be used.  I don't want to damage the PCB if some gets on it, however.

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[DeathAndTaxes]

I use rubbing alcohol to clean GPU and memory before attaching waterblocks.  Use a qtip soaked in alcohol and then squeeze the excess out of it.

Never had it ruin a PCB.  If you get a little on the PCB just blow on it.  Alcohol evaporates very quickly.

[likuidxd]

You can actually do what I used to do to clean my RC cars. Use a spray bottle with rubbing alcohol and spray it down, the alcohol will attach to the dust and dirt and hit it real quick with your compressor. Alcohol dries very quickly and you don't run a high risk with it.

Tip: Always blow out fans while holding them still. Winding up fans with compressed air can damage them

[amazingrando]

Thanks guys!  I'll give the rubbing alcohol a try.

Misting with the alcohol and the blowing with the compressed is clever.  I'll try it out.

 

[jjiimm_64]

I use rubbing alcohol to clean GPU and memory before attaching waterblocks.  Use a qtip soaked in alcohol and then squeeze the excess out of it.

Never had it ruin a PCB.  If you get a little on the PCB just blow on it.  Alcohol evaporates very quickly.

I might try this to get all the cigar smoke film off mine

[Mousepotato]

I use a 1" paintbrush to clean all my fans.  Works great and restores them to like-new condition and keeps them optimal.