Replacing the CPU thermal paste on a MBP 2010?

[Bradamante]

Well I'm on a roll so I was checking the CPU temperature an older MBP 15" mid 2010. Under mild load the fans aren't really annoying but I noticed that the CPU temps (according to MacsFanControl) are 80+ deg C under mild load and 60+ deg C idling. The tool also reports that the left fan is not rotating, it's dead - or is that an error?

Is either of this (temp and the left fan not rotating) normal? Enough justification to take the thing apart and replace the CPU paste, which worked so well with my 2008 MB?

 

[jerryk]

I see no reason not to open it up and take a look. It sounds like you want to replace a fan anyway. While you are in there might as well replace the paste and clean the heat sinks.

 

[Audit13]

I always recommend that people disconnect the battery as soon they remove the bottom cover and press the power button. The last thing you want to do is drop anything made of metal onto a board with a connected battery such as a case screw.