Need help selecting water cooling components

[axemanrio]

I know c2d is 2 months away, but I plan to water cool it and I have no clue about what parts or fittings I'm going to need... I have thought about kits, but want to build a fairly high end system on my own (I like experimenting a lot, and I guess there's less fun setting up a kit )...

Thanks for your help!

 

[axemanrio]

bump.... still need help!

 

[nealh]

what are you going to cool..cpu, gpu , one or both

Your case will be important for what size radiator you purchase...that is a dual or triple 120mm radiator

DIY should perform much better than most prebuilt kits

Some suggestions:

Pump:
DDC ultra modded $110
http://www.performance-pcs.com/catalog/...roduct_info&cPath=201&products_id=4509 this pump performs as well as the Aquaxtreme 50z and MCP655/D5 or better with equal to better noise
MCP655 $80
http://www.jab-tech.com/Swiftech-MCP655-12-VDC-Pump-pr-2982.html
Aquaextreme 50z $75
http://www.cooltechnica.com/Merchant2/m...duct_Code=AQX-50Z-DC12&Category_Code=P

Cpu Block:
Storm rev 2 $80
http://www.jab-tech.com/Swiftech-Storm-Universal-Waterblock-Rev-2-pr-3022.html

Apogee $45.. also at jab tech ..less restrictive block for flow

Gpu block:
MCW60 w/ram sinks $60
http://www.jab-tech.com/Swiftech-MCW60-VGA-cooler-pr-3252.html
DD Maze 4 $42 but you need ram sinks
http://www.jab-tech.com/Low-Profile-Acetal-MAZE4-GPU-1-2-Barbs-pr-3262.html

Radiator:
HE 120.2 or PA120.2 ~ $100
http://www.jab-tech.com/120mm-Dual-c-257.html

tubing
Masterkleer(50cents a foot) or tygon($2 foot) 7/16internal dia and 5/8 outer diameter
http://www.jab-tech.com/Masterkleer-Tubing-7-16-ID-5-8-OD-pr-3079.html

http://www.sidewindercomputers.com/ty7id5odlatu.html

I would recommend 1/2" barbs(less restrictive) and worm drive clamps(these help secure the tubing to the barbs), fans, teflon tape

Coolant I use Distilled water and Zerex racing coolant(small amount) not the antifreeze...I use no other additives or dyes..which clog my Storm rev 2...it has small "jets" that can clog easily

 

[axemanrio]

Hey thanks a lot.... this was helpful. About your first question, I initially plan to cool my CPU and later add cooling for the GPU as well. So to reiterate I need blocks, pump, radiator, tubing & clamps right? I'm going to check out all the parts at those links and will let you know if I have questions.

Thanks again!

 

[nealh]

Yes

You will need:
Radiator: plan ahead on this do not get a sinlge 120mm radiator...if you are going to eventually cool cpu & gpu get a radiator capable of this dual 120.2/ triple 120.3(notation)

Placement in the case is important for type and size..there is a PA160 radiator...single fan radiator...performs close to dual 120.2 with appropraite fan..I got only because I wanted and internal solution in my P180 and easy modding..I did not have to cut 120mm holes..it was my first case mod...not very handy person....

I would still recommend 120.2 radiator, the one I recommended are good and cost more..there are others that are cheaper and maybe as good

Pump:

very important item here...there are a ton around...but get a good one, it will last longer and can be reused
here are some sound files...

http://www.cooling-masters.com/articles-33-14.html

Tubing: I am happy with my masterkleer and price was nice

clamps worm drives I got at Lowe's for 2/88cents..I used 10

You will need to clean the radiator with distilled water and distilled white vinegar(by soaking and I strongly recommend this , since manufacturing of it leaves a white residue that can clog the blocks esp the Storm rev2)

Not everyone like XS..but I found the tutorials very helpful for a noobie

http://www.xtremesystems.org/forums/showthread.php?t=54331


My lists are recommendations...not necessarily the best or most budget orientated.

I do recommend spending money on Pump/Radiator..buy quality as these can be reused

Blocks:

get other suggestions....as there are alot of good ones that maybe less expensive and offer similar costs

I recommend a T-line
post #19 has a good picture...this one goes up to an opening in the top of the case with a filport..I just used stalk of a cd spindle I cut with a dremel and cleaned as plug for my Tline..fit tightly with 7/16ID masterkleer

http://www.xtremesystems.org/forums/sho...d.php?t=83459&highlight=T-line+picture

T line guide:
http://www.wc101.com/guides/t-line/

reservoir are easier to fill and bleed(get out air bubbles) but more tubing more places for leaks

I also suggest teflon tape to wrap around barbs to help reduce the risk of a leak

PM for anything if you like

I am by no means an expert but new at this and made alot o mistakes I can help others avoid

 

[Billb2]

Monthly roundup of water cooling's best components
http://www.ocforums.com/showthread.php?t=369416