Mystifying BSOD on R40

[ThievesAmongUs]

Alright, I've got a mysterious BSOD issue with an R40 of mine. After the machine is been off for a day or so, it runs fine for 30-40 minutes, then it crashes. After that, it subsequent boots induce crashes faster (20 min, 10min, etc). Now I suspect this might be a heat issue, but I'm not entirely sure. Thoughts, anyone ?

[RealBlackStuff]

Replace the thermal paste between CPU and cooler with fresh Arctic Silver 5.

[ThievesAmongUs]

Hmm... doesn't sound terribly difficult. I'll give it a shot.

[Harryc]

Run tpfancontrol and see what your system's temperatures are prior to a crash.
http://www.staff.uni-marburg.de/~schmitzr/donate.html

[ThievesAmongUs]

I'm assuming doing this for the laptop is no different than a regular desktop ?

[vanaya]

Yes, same steps as a desktop. ygpm.

[ThievesAmongUs]

Last question, I know Isopropyl alcohol is usually used for cleaning off the paste. Now I have some 91% stuff at my house, but I'm wondering if this is the right type to use ?

[RealBlackStuff]

That'll work fine.

[ThievesAmongUs]

Would it be advisable to apply the rubbing alcohol to both the bottom of the heatsink and the top of the CPU?

[vanaya]

Yes, I've used it with no faults. On the R40's that I've done they have thermal pad, I just remove the remaining copper pad and then clean both sides and then apply thermal grease.