GTX 480 Waterblock Help!

**Tai** · 06-09-12, 10:11 PM

I currently have 2 EK-FC waterblocks ready to be put on my 480's. The problem is I realized i don't have enough thermal pads for both cards. I have enough for only 1. Can i put thermal paste on the vram instead of the 1mm thermal pads? If so it would be amazing because then i would have enough for both cards.

**HeavyG** · 06-09-12, 11:31 PM

You should use the thermal pads. Do you know, specifically, what size thermal pads you need? EK typically uses 1.0mm and 0.5mm, but they may vary depending on your application.

The thermal pads are used as 1) they are guaranteed to be non-conductive, and 2) they fit the exact gap needed between the memory and VRMs.

You can get new thermal pads from shops like FrozenCPU.com:

Thermal Pads / Tape | Page 1 | Sort By: Product Title A-Z - FrozenCPU.com

Just find the exact size you need, don't buy too much as it can be expensive, and be patient. It is best to do it right than to rush and end up killing your card.

**HeavyG** · 06-09-12, 11:32 PM

Also, what motherboard are you using, and how are you linking the cards? I have an EK Link setup for sale... not sure it would fit your setup though. It looks pretty badass though.

**Tai** · 06-09-12, 11:52 PM

I need 1mm thermal pads, i was just wondering because i do not want to spend another 15$ on thermal pads. And i already have a link for the cards, thanks though!

**HeavyG** · 06-10-12, 02:11 AM

I wouldnt go without the pads. They are that thick because it allows heat transfer from the VRM to the block. The paste wouldnt allow such transfer.

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