Is it safe to boot a Macbook without the heatsink?

[Revive]

I always put the heatsink back on logic boards before testing a computer, am I wasting my time?
Is it generally safe to boot without the heatsink mounted?

 

[smiba]

No.

I don't think the CPU will directly destroy itself but it is definitely not good and can shorten the lifespan of the cpu.

Question is why are you removing the heatsinks though? You can keep them on unless there is a part you need to reach right underneath it

 

[Revive]

At some point it goes in the ultrasonic, I assume thermal paste doesn't play well with it.

 

[smiba]

Oh yeah obviously, I was assuming you meant while you were trying to repair the device.
Get the heatsink off and remove the thermal paste before throwing it into the ultrasonic. Just put it back on before you start the system

 

[dukefawks]

No you do not boot a board without a heat sink unless for quickly checking it it gives display.