One core running hot?

[Rikk82]

Hi there, long time lurker, and first post on these wonderful forums.

I have a couple of questions on a build I made last week after downloading Core Temps and CPU-Z. Firstly a few relevant specs:

Intel Core 2 Quad Q9550
Asus P5Q Pro Intel P45
GeIL 4GB (2x2GB) PC2-8500C5 1066MHz Black Dragon EVO ONE
Noctua NH-U12P CPU Cooler w/supplied Noctua fan

Looking at my temperatures on core temp, it's showing core#0 as ~6-10 degrees hotter than the other 3 cores. Is this normal for quads? If not, what can be done? Do you think it would be a good idea to reapply the TIM? I used AS5, and am I little worried about removing the HSF and getting some on my mobo or anywhere else since it's conductive.

The other thing was regarding speed. My CPU should be running at 2.83GHz @stock right? Well my mobo has everything set to auto, yet is only running at 2GHz. What's even more weird is that every 45-60 seconds it 'flicks' from 6 multiplier, to 8.5 multiplier for a couple of seconds before reverting for another minute at x6. What is causing this and how would I fix it?

I've had a dabble at manually setting the FSB and mulipliers in the BIOS, but it didn't seem to make any difference.

Any advise is appreciated.

 

[Rikk82]

OK, cheers guys.
I've had a quick read up of the lapping procedure. It doesn't look that difficult, just requires a lot of elbow grease (and patience), so I might give it a go.

Couple of things really. When removing the heat sink, will the TIM be in a runny/liquidy state, or solid?
I've checked out Arctic Silvers instructions, and this time I will remember to spread the paste in a straight line across the CPU, rather than a small blob in the middle.

Where's the best place to purchase lapping paper? OcUK don't seem to stock any, unless I'm looking in the wrong place, or can you just use any old paper from DIY stores ensuring that the grain is right?