CPU/HSF install questions?

[SomalianViking]

I have a question about installing a new Heatsink/Fan combo on my mobo. This is my first time doing a complete build from scratch. Before I have always bought barebones and such that were already 1/2 built. I just bought an ASUS A8N32-SLI mobo with an Opteron 185 processor. That really doesn't matter though; the problem is that the heatsink I bought for it is a gigantic thermaltake that screws into the rear retention bracket instead of clipping into the front bracket like the stock AMD HSF.

If you don't know which heatsink I'm talking about you can see it here:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16835106061
http://www.thermaltakeusa.com/product/cooler/retail/cl-p0114/cl-p0114.asp

The problem is that I cannot get the heatsink to stay still on top of the processor while tightening the two screws on the retention bracket; thus making a mess of the thermal grease. I know that you're supposed to apply the heatsink carefully from the top down. I've finally gotten it tightened down but I am curious as to whether it will still cool properly after moving back and forth so much. The heatsink probably moved up to 1/2" in either direction numerous times. From what I've heard small rotational movement is ok, but sideways or directional movement messes up the seated thermal compound. Can anyone confirm whether I can leave it or whether I have to pull it back off and re-apply everything?

And as a note: If I have to pull this thing off and do it again, I'll definitly get an extra pair of hands.

 

[Jimmy 2004]

Well, the main problem would be that air could have gotten into the gap between the HS and the CPU, which would reduce the efficiency of the thermal paste. If you've got thermal paste to spare and want your system to run its best, it would certainly be a good idea to re-apply the thermal paste just in case.

From my experience, it will probably make very little difference unless it went very wrong, but the little improvements add up and you've got nothing to lose out of giving it another try now that you know what you're doing. Was the case lying on it's side? That would seem a more obvious way to do it without it sliding down under gravity - if you had it on it's side and it was sliding about because it's fiddley to do, then I would definately recommend that extra pair of hands. Good luck getting it sorted, hope you're happy with your new system.