17 / TEST-FIT WATERBLOCK
Before you use the new paste or pads, try the waterblock and make it
fit on the card – you can then get a feel for how to mount it. This step
can prevent you from accidentally slipping later, spreading thermal
paste all over the place and potentially damaging the thermal pads.
20 / APPLY MOSFET THERMAL PADS
It’s easier to deal with the MOSFET pads, as you just need to cut
single strips to the right length. We used two 8mm-wide strips,
cutting them to length.18 / APPLY THERMAL PASTE
The thermal paste is pre-applied on Corsair’s waterblocks, but with
most other models, you’ll need to apply it yourself. Use a thin line,
2-3mm wide from right to left – this line will then spread to cover the
chip once the block is fixed in place.
21 / CHECK CONTACT
Install the PCB on the waterblock. If you’re not sure the block is
making good contact with the paste, remove the block and check the
thermal paste has begun to spread. If so, you’re clear to secure the
block using the screws. If not, try repositioning the block, so the
mounting holes line up, and try again.16 / CLEAN RAM AND GPU
Use thermal paste cleaner or isopropyl alcohol to clean the GPU core
and memory. The core will have old thermal paste applied, while the
RAM will have residue left from the old thermal pads – both materials
need to be removed.
19 / APPLY RAM PADS
With the EKWB block, you need to cut your own thermal pads
according to the instructions. Be sure to peel off the rigid plastic
layer from one side, as well as the dark blue plastic sheet from
the other side.