The present invention provides an apparatus and method for automatically disconnecting a cryocooler from a cold mass reservoir of a MR system. A cryocooler thermal link includes a first end plate configured to be thermally connected to a cryocooler and a second end plate configured to be thermally connected to a cold mass. A wall encloses a space between the first and the second end plates, the wall having a first end attached to the first end plate and a second end attached to the second end plate. A working fluid is positioned in the space.