Dell Dimension 2300 heatsink help

[sinergy]

i hope this is the right section

im a first time modder or anything like that and im looking at getting a new processor/cpu and im wondering how hard is it to take the heatsink off. i don't want to try and break it or the mobo.

can someone help me out.

i have pictures but im not able to post them just yet

its a metal heatsink with 2 clip like things on the sides

 

[Tmagic650]

OOPS! ...

 

[Tmagic650]

What model is the CPU in the 2300? Intel or AMD? This info will help to determine how to remove the CPU heatsink and fan. On older systems, there is a metal spring that is pressed down and away from the CPU socket, one one side, using a small flat blade screwdriver. This releases the heatsink and fan assembly. Be sure to clean off the old thermal paste and apply a small amount of new paste when reassembling the heatsink

 

[vnf4ultra]

The system uses socket 478 for intel p4 or celeron. It has a heatsink that is held on by two metal spring clips. To release them, you have to "unspring" them a little bit until you can unhook the one end of the clip. Here's a picture of they type of clips they are using. Sometimes removing the clips is a real pain though.