Hydroshift II LCD-C 360TL Installation Guide
AM4/AM5 Installation Steps
Follow these steps to install the Hydroshift II LCD-C 360TL cooler on AM4/AM5 motherboards.
Step 1: Remove the stock retention bracket
Unscrew the mounting screws of the stock retention bracket from the motherboard and remove the original bracket.
Diagram Description: An illustration shows a motherboard with the original CPU cooler retention bracket attached. Arrows indicate the screws being unscrewed, and the bracket is shown being lifted off the motherboard.
Step 2: Install the AM4/AM5 retention bracket
After removing the original retention bracket, install the AM4/AM5-compatible retention bracket onto the motherboard using the provided AM4/AM5 mounting screws (x4).
Note: Please install the CPU before installing the bracket.
Diagram Description: The illustration shows the motherboard with the original bracket removed. The new AM4/AM5 bracket is being placed over the CPU socket area, with screws indicated for attachment.
Thermal Paste and Radiator Installation
Step 2 (cont.): Apply thermal paste
Apply thermal paste evenly to the CPU surface.
Diagram Description: A close-up view shows the base of the CPU cooler block with thermal paste applied in a smooth, even layer.
Step 3: Install the radiator
First, diagonally secure the radiator to the PC case without fully tightening the screws. Then, verify the case's installation space and compatibility. Ensure the assembly can be properly seated and assess the tubing's alignment after installation. For detailed specifications, refer to Page 7.
Diagram Description: An illustration depicts a PC case interior where the radiator is being mounted, likely to the top or front panel, with screws being inserted.
Water Block Installation
Step 4: Install the water block
Push the water block in the indicated direction until it reaches the far left of the slot, aligning the buckle holes.
Diagram Description: The image shows the CPU cooler water block being pushed into its mounting bracket on the motherboard until it clicks or aligns properly.
Secure the water block to the bracket using nuts. Then, position the decorative trim over the nuts.
Diagram Description: This illustration shows the water block secured to the bracket with nuts, and a decorative trim piece being placed over the mounting hardware.
Chassis Installation Space Check
This section helps determine the correct installation procedure based on available space between fan mounts and the motherboard.
| Step | Question | Assessment | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | Initially secure the radiator diagonally, mount the water block onto the bracket without fully tightening. | ||
| Step 2 | Can the water block properly latch onto the mounting bracket? | Yes | Proceed to the next step. |
| No | Classified as Scenario 3. | ||
| Step 3 | Check the tubing's aesthetic profile. | Yes | Classified as Scenario 1. |
| No | Proceed to the next step. | ||
| Step 4 | Is there a gap between the tube and the fan? | Yes | Classified as Scenario 2. |
| No | Classified as Scenario 3. |
Scenario Descriptions:
Scenario 1: Sufficient clearance exists. Partially secure the radiator diagonally, temporarily position the water block without tightening. Ensure the folded retention arc maintains an aesthetic profile. Refer to page 9 for tubing routing specifications.
Scenario 2: Limited clearance. Partially secure the radiator diagonally, temporarily position the water block without tightening. This may result in a convex folded retention arc, but tubing should maintain clearance from fans. Refer to page 10 for tubing routing specifications.
Scenario 3: Critically limited clearance. Partially secure the radiator diagonally, attempt to mount the water block without tightening. If the block cannot latch, or the retention arc protrudes excessively, forcing tubing into contact with fans, refer to page 11 for emergency routing solutions.
Coolant Tubing Management (Scenario 1)
For Scenario 1, where sufficient clearance is available:
Manually adjust the upright bracket's position by turning the nuts left/right. Operate the O-component with one hand while aligning the tube laterally with the other hand until it is centered directly above the CPU. Once positioned correctly, fully tighten the screws and secure the tube clamps (use 1-2 clamps depending on chassis space availability).
Diagram Description: An illustration shows a bracket being adjusted using nuts. Another part of the diagram shows tube clamps being used to secure coolant tubes to the bracket or case.
