Building my PC

It has been suggested to me that mounting the cooler pump on the board before putting in the case is a good idea. Just be very careful to support the radiator so it doesn't fall on the board or anything else.

I would mount it so the fans pull cool air in from outside the case, with the fans mounted to the case, the rad to the fans. Ganjiry had a good idea for this. First use two normal fan mount screws and mount them to the case with two screws each. Then you have a free hand to insert the longer screws to mount the radiator with. Then remove the normal screws and use the longer ones to make it permanent.

No, fans will be inside.

Yes and yes, here's a video. He has the fans on bottom though.

I would remove and install the new cooler retention plate on the back of the mobo before installing the mobo in the case. then you can apply thermal paste just before installing the screws and pump head to the now installed plate. Go slow and as even a tightening as you can to just snug.......then gently tighten and let rest maybe to just a little pump wiggle and then a final snug but not over tight and your good.

The I/O shield that goes in the back of the case?

It's there for your protection !

linnemeyerhere said:

It's there for your protection !

No, not Shields and Guards Alan.