How to Remove a Large Dual-Slot Graphics Card Without Damaging Your Motherboard

If you have a large dual-slot graphics card and a large air cooler, it may be nearly impossible to use your hand to reach the PCIe release clip located underneath the graphics card, as shown in the photo below.

To safely release the clip without damaging your motherboard (e.g., avoid using the metal end of a screwdriver), use a safe and blunt tool such as a chopstick, a wedge tool, the eraser-tip end of a pencil, or — my personal favorite — a Yamaha plastic flute cleaning rod .

A Yamaha ACR-FLP plastic cleaning rod. The end of the rod is flattened, and the perfect width to fit between even the tightest space between your graphics card, and air cooler, or a M.2 drive cover.

The Yamaha ACR-FLP plastic cleaning rod features a flattened end that fits perfectly even in the tightest spaces, such as between your graphics card and air cooler or a nearby M.2 drive cover. It is strong, rigid, and easy to handle, making it simple to press down on the release clip. Additionally, the tip is rounded and blunt, so even if it slips off the release clip and grazes your motherboard, it is unlikely to cause any damage.