http://i41.tinypic.com/2mwcm74.jpgIf you don't care about that and only plan to mount it once, you can just use a 6-32 1.5" screw and nut to hold the heatsink down. You can still even use the spring if you want. They're just a more of a PITA to install that way, especially if you take them on or off.
I just did this particular install 4 times (Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO) and it's pretty difficult but stable. Here's a few tips:
- It's easy to remove the fan from the heatsink, so make sure you do that.
- I used 6-32 2.0" screws instead. They were more readily available at Home Depot and ended up making nice feet.
- I found it easier to place the heatsink upside down on a flat surface, then I wedged some needle nose pliers between the heatsink and the "X" apparatus to hold it in place. Then Chili (with TIM) and backplate.
- I inserted the 4 screws form the bottom and attached 4 nuts finger tight. This will be enough to hold the "X" in place and allow you to turn it right side up and tighten the screws.
- I re-used the thicker of the two springs on the 2" screw. The smaller thinner spring didn't really have a use.
- You can remove the springs by using wire cutters on the small black circle that holds the two springs on the screws that came with the EVO.
- Muscle memory will not allow me to type "spring" without typing "string" first.
