Chosen Solution
I plan to replace the logic board for my early 2011 Macbook Pro using the iFixit guide. I gather, from the photo of the replacement logic board (IF161-078-1) in store, that the small heat sinks (item number: IF161-082-1 PCH heatsink; covering the Intel BD82HM65 Platform Controller Hub and the Intel L051NB32 EFL) are not included. Since it’s not currently available in store, I was wondering if I could re-use these small heat sinks from the old logic board on the new one by reapplying the thermal paste?
Just thought I’d quickly post an answer here to my question - just received and completed the logic board replacement. Interestingly, the small heat sinks are included with the new logic board so the only thing that needs to be moved from the older one is the large heat sink that covers the CPU and GPU. One needn’t purchase the small heat sinks like iFixit suggests in their (awesome!) MBP Early 2011 logic board replacement guide.
Yes, you can re-use the heatsink as its just a plate type. You will need to apply thermal paste on it so make sure it’s fully cleaned. You in fact maybe able to re-use the CPU/GPU heat sink. After you have cleaned it make note which one is yours Vs the replacement (magic marker it) and then use a good Gram scale to weigh the two heatsinks if they are both the same weight (just a gram or two off) you can re-use yours. If yours is lighter then the liquid coolant inside has leaked out so it can no longer transfer heat effectively. Don’t forget to apply thermal paste on it as well.
