[SOLVED] Do I need thermal paste?

Noticed the CPU heat sink/fan was dusty so I took it out and cleaned it. Reading the instructions it says to use thermal paste. Is it necessary to put more on or is it just the first time it is assembled?

The thermal paste can still be used if it is still moist and not completely dry.
If you cleaned off the thermal paste then it will need to be replaced.

It is a good habit to replace the thermal compound if you remove the heat-sinks though.

Changing the paste is really judgment call. For instance when is glue so dry it can not be used. The paste is used in the same fashion. It glues the heat-sink to the processor for maximum heat transfer. If you break this bond then a new bond will be needed.

That's what I thought but I was hoping for a different answer. I'll go out and get some.