Installation Manual for EKWB Upgrade Kit RGB
This product is intended for installation only by expert users. Please consult with a qualified technician for installation. Improper installation may result in damage to your equipment. EK Water Blocks assumes no liability whatsoever, expressed or implied, for the use of these products, nor their installation. The following instructions are subject to change without notice. Please visit our web site at www.ekwb.com for updates. Before installation of this product please read important notice, disclosure and warranty conditions printed on the back of the box.
This manual is made for all EK-FC RGB Upgrade kits. It provides instructions on how to change the top and terminal of compatible EK water blocks with RGB-enabled components. You will also need the original manual for your specific water block, which can be found on the EKWB website.
Before You Start
- Please carefully read this manual thoroughly before beginning the installation process.
- Remove your Graphics card from the computer to ensure the safest mounting process and prevent any possible damage to your GPU and/or graphics card circuit board (PCB).
- The EK-HFB and EK-ACF type fittings require only a small amount of force to screw them firmly in place, as the liquid seal is ensured by the rubber O-ring gaskets.
- The use of corrosion-inhibiting coolants is always recommended for any liquid cooling system.
Step 1: Remove Water Block from Your Graphics Card
Remove all screws holding the water block to your graphics card. If a backplate is present, remove all screws securing it to the block. Refer to your original water block manual for specific details. Diagrams show screw locations on the top of the water block and indicate removal of backplate screws if applicable.
Step 1 Continued: Cleaning PCB and Water Block
Carefully detach the water block after removing all securing screws. Clean the GPU's PCB by wiping off the remains of the original thermal compound using a non-abrasive cloth or a Q-tip. Ensure the components and circuit board are completely clean. EKWB recommends using denatured alcohol for removing thermal interface material (TIM) leftovers. A close-up diagram shows a GPU PCB being cleaned with a Q-tip to remove thermal paste. A removed water block is also visible.
Step 2: Remove Terminal Cover and Terminal
Unscrew the two screws holding the terminal cover in place using a 2.5mm Allen key. The terminal is secured with three screws; use a 2.5mm Allen key to unscrew them. Remove the top of the water block by unscrewing all screws using a 2.5mm and 2mm Allen key. Also, remove the O-ring(s). Clean the nickel-plated copper part under running water. Diagrams illustrate removing the terminal cover screws, then the terminal screws. Another diagram shows unscrewing the top of the water block and removing the O-ring, revealing the clean copper base.
Step 2 Continued: Installing the RGB Top
Install the Plexi RGB top onto the copper base. Carefully position the O-ring in its channel on the copper base. Place the JET plate over the cooling core. Position the Plexi RGB top over the copper base, ensuring the O-ring remains seated correctly. Insert all screws into their respective holes, noting the two different types of screws. Tighten all screws with a 2.5mm Allen key. Verify the O-ring and JET plate are correctly positioned to prevent leakage. Attach the ALU RGB cover to the Plexi block using the enclosed M3x5 DIN7991 screws. Diagrams show the O-ring being placed in the channel, the JET plate positioned over the cooling fins, and the Plexi RGB top being fitted onto the copper base. Another diagram shows attaching the ALU RGB cover with screws.
Step 3: Install Terminal on Water Block
Insert an O-ring (15x1) into each pocket of the terminal. Align the terminal with the water block and secure it using three M4x27mm DIN7984 screws. Do not overtighten, as this may damage the plexi top. Ensure the O-rings are correctly placed to prevent leaks. Position the terminal cover over the installed terminal and attach it using two M4x6 DIN7984 screws. Diagrams illustrate inserting O-rings into the terminal, attaching the terminal to the block, and securing the terminal cover with screws.
Step 4: Install Water Block on Card
For the final installation of the water block onto your graphics card, please refer to the specific manual for your water block model. If you no longer have the manual, you can find it on the EKWB website under the full cover water blocks section. Locate your specific water block model to access the online installation manual. Visit: https://www.ekwb.com/shop/
Required Tools
- Philips head screwdriver
All disclosures, notices, and warranty conditions are available on the EKWB website. Please read the terms of use. Released on 24th of April 2018, Revision 1.0.