Question I need some help with my CPU AIO

[Stg-Flame]

My case specifies that it can support a 120mm or 240mm radiator on top and has screw holes to attach the radiator but I've ordered two different 240 AIOs and the radiators don't fit. I've never used an AIO before so I don't understand what I'm missing or why the AIOs that are listed as 240 don't fit the case. I tried installing an Arctic 240 and while the radiator doesn't even fit inside the case, the screw holes wouldn't even line up so I removed the front panel and all the screw holes align with a 280mm radiator. So I sent that one back and ordered a different 240 but yet again, the screw holes match the 280mm holes on the front of my case and doesn't fit in the top.

What am I doing wrong? Am I wrong in thinking a 240mm radiator should fit in the top of the case that's clearly marked for a 240mm AIO? I'd like to get the correct one because my new PC is basically a 30lb paperweight right now until I can get the correct AIO ordered and installed.

 

[phillyman36]

Check youtube to see how others have installed aios on that case.

look at the 4:25 Mark

 

[Stuka87]

All the images and materials posted by MSI shows their own AIO coolers in there. I thought they used the same mounting dimensions as corsair and others. But perhaps the case only works with their coolers? Even the video above is using an MSI branded cooler.

 

[Stg-Flame]

All the images and materials posted by MSI shows their own AIO coolers in there. I thought they used the same mounting dimensions as corsair and others. But perhaps the case only works with their coolers? Even the video above is using an MSI branded cooler.

I'll look into it but I've been told that MSI coolers are notorious for issues which is why I was going with Arctic. I have one more coming on Sunday and if it doesn't fit, I'll look into an MSI cooler. I never thought these things could cause me so much trouble. It's been almost a full month that I've had pretty much the entire PC built but I can't do anything with it until I get a cooler installed.

 

[In2Photos]

I've never seen anyone mention a difference in mounting for these coolers. Remember that Asetek holds the patent on these and for the most part they are all the same. If the next one gives you trouble I suggest you post some pictures or a video.

 

[Stuka87]

I've never seen anyone mention a difference in mounting for these coolers. Remember that Asetek holds the patent on these and for the most part they are all the same. If the next one gives you trouble I suggest you post some pictures or a video.

Asetek only has a patent on one of the impeller designs. Not the radiators.

 

[BoomerD]

Asetek only has a patent on one of the impeller designs. Not the radiators.

Exactly...however, the Asetek patented design is the most common AIO pump in use.

I'm kind of surprised that the MSI case doesn't fit other fans/radiators. They're USUALLY pretty commonly built as for hole spacing and such.

 

[Stg-Flame]

I appreciate all the help and I finally solved my issue. The first cooler didn't fit because they sent me a refurbished/repaired/used Arctic 280 in a plain box. I even noted to Amazon that it looked used but they assured me it was brand new (which now that I informed them of their mistake I have free credit). The second one (ID-Cooling 240) had the same problem as the first as it was just a bit too long but it fit perfectly fine in the front of my case in the 280mm slot. After Amazon contacted the seller, they emailed me and said they resolved the issue and overnighted a new Arctic 240 which came in a proper sealed box and that one ended up fitting just fine in the top 240 slot. So now I have to return three AIOs on Tuesday when I get a day off and I'll probably be fighting with Amazon again since the return label they sent me for the first one says Arctic 240 despite me showing proof that I was sent a 280...

I was also able to finally turn my PC on and everything seems to be working with a few exceptions that I'll have to figure out later since a lot of this is new to me.