CPU Overheating in X61 Thinkpad

Hi I just got a used x61 Thinkpad in good condition off eBay. After a clean install of Windows 7 and other programs, I noticed the CPU temp runs really hot on this x61. 83 celcius at full and 55~68 at idle. Then I searched for the issue online and found out it's a common issue on x61 processor. Is there a step-by-step repaste DIY I can follow? I will clean the dust in the fan while I'm at it. I tried searching but no luck. Inputs are appreciated.

Here is the spec:
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo T7300 2 GHz
Memory: 3 GB
O.S: Windows 7 64 bit
Warranty expired in October of 2010 so sending in is not an option.

 

If you plan to replace the thermal paste you will need to disassemble the internals. Download the hardware maintenance manual which will show you exactly how to get to the fan assembly: http://www-307.ibm.com/pc/support/site.wss/MIGR-62866.html

There are also very easy to follow videos here: Service Videos

Last but not least - the biggest improvement you can make in terms of CPU temps is by undervolting it. On your X61 T7300 you can expect a drop in at least 10 degrees at 100% CPU load at maximum frequency (2.0 GHz).

On an unrelated note: Why are you running Win 7 x64 with 3GB?

 

Awesome. Thanks for the tips. I will look into the video and manual and see if I can do it myself.

Because Im going to upgrade to 4GB ram after I figure out this temp issue.

 

I just found out that my x61 only support up to 3G ram max....

 

This is incorrect. You can install 4GB no problem. You can even install 8GB.

 

that is the limit of the X60/s/t and not the X61 variants.