The X-clamp is a crucial component of the Xbox 360 console, responsible for holding the graphics processing unit (GPU) and central processing unit (CPU) in place. Over time, the thermal paste between the X-clamp and the chips can dry out, leading to overheating and potential damage to the console. As such, removing the X-clamp to replace the thermal paste is a common maintenance task for Xbox 360 owners.
Removing the X-clamp requires careful disassembly of the console, including removing the top case, motherboard, and heat sink. Once the X-clamp is accessible, it can be removed using a specialized tool or a pair of needle-nose pliers. The old thermal paste should then be cleaned off the X-clamp and the chips, and new thermal paste should be applied before reassembling the console.
