Q1. What causes the 3 red ring error?
A1. One theory - overheating which cracks and loosens the apparent cold solder joints on the processor pins.
Q2. How does the Xbox 360 Repair Kit fix the Xbox 360?
A2. Basically, the x-clamps are removed, the heat sinks are removed, the CPU and GPU are cleaned up, thermal paste applied (to transfer heat more efficiently), heat sinks reinstalled with washers and new screws which replace the x-clamps, screws are tightened and the unit is overheated to attempt a re-solder of the GPU and CPU pins.
Q3. Do you have to use thermal paste?
A3. Yes. It helps to transfer the heat from the CPU and GPU.
Q4. Why nylon washers?
A4. We didn''t want to take a chance on metal touching the motherboard and shorting anything out. Purely a precautionary measure.
Q5. What size are the screws?
A5. Well, we can''t tell you. That would defeat the purpose of developing the kit and selling it. Sorry.
Q6. Do I need to do both the CPU and GPU?
A6. You might as well since you have the console apart. Also both the CPU and GPU use the same soldering technique and are prone to the same problem. Besides the kit has enough components for both.