Two questions: mobo northbridge and PSU

[viivo]

I bought a used MSI X58M. The previous owner put a smallish aluminium HS with a 40mm fan on the NB. Aside from how loud I assume the fan is (haven't got the system running yet,) it also blocks the first PCI-E slot and my HSF (CM Hyper 12+) also hits it when using two fans. Since I'm going to be doing SLI I need something that won't cover the slot but still provides good cooling since I've heard the X58 NB gets pretty hot. Any recommendations?

Also bought a CM 1000w PSU. I'm using an Antec 300 with bottom mount for the PSU. When the PSU is mounted with the fan facing up all the cables are on the panel side and I've found it's impossible to run them without blocking the bottom front fan. With it mounted the other way, fan down, it's perfect since all the cables run straight to the cable management compartment. Will this cause any heat problems for the PSU or should I see about cutting a hole in the case under the PSU? There are brackets on the case that raise the PSU about 1/2 an inch but I don't know if that's enough.

 

[faxon]

why not get a better case? you spent all that money on a 1000w PSU, but unless you're running 3x SLI/CF you dont need more than a 750-850w for a dual card setup. most new (see well designed) cases already have that bottom mount psu area with a cut out for air to flow in. if not, the PSU should at least be raised up a bit from the bottom of the case. if you want to mod it go ahead, it will definitely help, but its going to be a pain wiring everything with that case anyway

 

[viivo]

I know, I didn't want to get a 1000w. I know it's overkill, but I traded for it so it was cheaper than buying a 700-800w.

And I chose this case for its size. I don't have room for big towers anymore, and it's the best looking one I could find with no lights or stupid plastic designs or side windows.

 

[zagood]

If you have both the front 120mm fans installed, PSU facing down should be fine. Even then I went ahead and cut a hole in mine, added rubber foam between PSU and case so it wouldn't mess with overall air flow, and added a filter for the fan. I'd post pics but I don't have that case with me. The metal in that area has an intended warp to it, so a) be careful you don't get your dremel/jigsaw hung up and b) this will reduce the strength of the case, but not too much. Just don't sit on it or twist it.

May want to replace the feet with something a little taller if you're going to go that way, or at least make sure the area around where it's standing is pretty open. Mine was laying on its side so I didn't worry about it.