Ang, I, like you are panning to do, also have an Athlon, an Athlon XP1900+ and in case you are not aware, these processors run a bit hotter than Intel's do; similar to the heat you would get from 'overclocking'. Not to worry, tho, just make sure you have plenty of cooling for the case and you should be fine. I have had no problems with mine for over a year, now. The CPU fan should be Athlon approved tho.
I know the angst you are going thru...I was without my 'escape' for a year, it ain't pleasant!
Good luck.

Rstar