What can I use to clean out the ZIF socket? Possible conformal coating issue

[hardnrg]

Well, I spent about 2 days disassembling, modding, and rebuilding my rig for a new TEC/block and now my CPU isn't recognised... (4 lights on DFI NF4)

My CPU socket is full of dielectric grease. I guess I can use some Isopropyl Alcohol to clean it out, but, that's not going to solve the issue.

I think the problem is that some conformal coating seeped under/through the 3 layers of masking tape as the socket was a bit tacky when I pulled the masking tape off. I put it down to the masking tape adhesive because I couldn't see any conformal coating on there. I actually moved the lever back and forth to check all the pins were visible and they appeared to be... a *few* I wasn't sure about (it's hard to look at that many tiny holes! lol) so I poked them about with a very fine sewing needle.

Is there some sort of solvent cleaner that works to dissolve out any residues after doing the standard IPA cleaning? I work in an electronics shop and we have many different types of PCB cleaner, but I was just wondering if anyone has had a similar previous problem and found a good cleaning agent?

Bit disheartened due to the massive anti-climax... the only thing that I can think of that is stopping the CPU working is one or more of the ZIF socket holes being blocked...

Maybe I should read the MSDS of the conformal coating (Electrolube DCA SCC3)

[hardnrg]

ok, Electrolube make DRG SCC3 Remover Gel... I'm wondering if there is anything else (to avoid having to mail order and wait)

[Holst]

That stuff may also damage the PCB, socket and other components, so use with caution (ot test on a dead board first)

With socket A you could dismantle the socket to clean inside if you were VERY carefull. Can you do this on your current board ?
You could lever the tabs that hold the socket together appart then take it to bits. Getting it back together was a real pain though.

[littleowl]

I used break parts cleaner and a rag. spray it on let it soak for a min and then wipe it off. on the socket spray it right in the socket and try to hit every hole. then turn the board every direction to try and shake out all that you can get out. let sit for a couple hrs to get dry.

[hardnrg]

I ended up getting some Servisol Coldklene 110 from work and that worked a treat... smells wonderful too lol