I just installed a Zalman 9700 in my system (MSI P35 Platinum, E6750) and noticed that despite the extreme tension the crossbar places on the cooler for tight contact, I can still twist the cooler about 3 degrees either way with little effort. I used a razor-thin layer of AS-5. The design of the cooler isn't made to prevent this rotational tolerance, and I don't see it causing any problems (my temps were lowered 9C immediately), but it's just a curious thing I wasn't expecting to see. Is this happening to anyone else or just me. Even if you don't have this HSF, I'd like to hear how others are, too.

I've had the same issue. I have the 9500, and when it is initially seated, it rotates a bit. I later reseated it with some new thermal compound, and I was able to get it snug. Then just 2 nights ago I reseated again, because I think I used to much compound, and now it rotates again. Checked it again today (after 2 days) and without forcing it too hard either way, it seems to have "cemented" itself, so to speak, and no longer rotates with ease.

I wouldn't worry too much about it. I've read other threads about it.

I noticed right after installation that I could move the heat sink slightly as well. Cooler works great and didn't shift when I transported the case.