definitely got more questions!
from here:
http://forums.bit-tech.net/showthread.php?t=257107&page=2
2 rads


let me try to wrap my head around it:
single loop:
RAD1 > cpu > gpu > RAD2 > reservoir/pump > RAD1
sounds correct?

wouldn't a RAD1 > cpu > RAD2 > gpu be better? although with that, i suspect the tubing would be a nightmare?
why are 2 reservoirs needed? how would the path flow?


i don't quite get how the water flows for the GPU, especially after looking at this example

after exploring further, it looks like the CM cosmos ii isn't that nice to pack all your water cooling stuff in it.
if i can forego the handle bars, things like CM HAF, or Phanteks (they don't look very well to me though lol), or corsair osidian (looks bland, and the pricing is insane lol) are probably better candidates.
At the moment my gaze are set on the nzxt phantom 820 but a lot of people are mentioning overpriced for what you're getting so

also this kept wondering my mind:
- tubings are generally very tight for aesthetics purposes
- dry pump should always be avoided

so... how does one drain/disassemble the water cooling units/blocks/tubing for maintenance without making a huge mess in the casing/risk staining components (and possibly leaving stains/residue depending on what coolant/dye etc you're using)?

Hi guys I just did my first watercooling set, completed after 2 weeks due to the lack of space in my casing so I had to re-order another bunch of angle fittings but I can share the cost and idea behind planning the loop and cost.

Planning:

What I did was I draw a rough sketch of what my loop will look like and the fittings needed. Some info needed is:

Res position
Pump position
Radiator position.

Generally the Res should be higher than the pump. Once you've positioned the components then you have to think of the tubing. If possible visualize the whole loop. One word of caution in using flexible tubing, they are not as flexible as you think. They can be bent but only to a certain extent.


The above picture: Visualized, it is very flexible but that kinda bending on the picture will exert A LOT OF FORCE on your components as the TUBING WILL TEND TO REVERT TO THEIR ORIGINAL form. The tubing I've used is 3/8 5/8OD Primochill Advanced LRT.

Preferably you will want to setup your loop as short as possible and avoid S-curve bends. Something like this is ideal:


However if your casing is small, and space is constricted. You need to purchase angle rotary fittings to bend the tubes. Please excuse my noob cable management, just for example.



Purchase:

Tubing: RM49 for 1m or RM14 per feet depending on the brand/size you buy, mine is 3/8, 5/8OD
Fittings: RM18-25 for XSPC ones, RM 30-38 for Bitspower ones each

For every angle rotary/adapters you need another matching compression or barb fittings.

Pump: MCP3xx/6xx, Liang D5 - RM 180 to 330. You can get other brands from NiclasTeoh/APES/Lingloong. Original pumps might not have the top/housing to connect G1/4 threads. Pump top looks like this.
You might need to get the pump top another RM 100+.

Res: RM80-RM200 depending on the size. You can get OEM ones that cost much less (Hint: Garage sales)

Water block: RM 200-300 depending on brand

GPU Waterblock: RM 200-RM500 depending on brand/fullcover/universal

Basically you are looking at almost RM 2k for a new setup, so I recommend getting a kit (XSPC/EK etc) that contains most of the components you need. You might run into some hiccups along the way so expect you might shell out extra.

Coolant:

Personally I use Distilled water + 10% Ethanol, 1% PVP-Iodine (Betadine).

Good luck to any new comers to water cooling!

Temps I got:

Sapphire 7870XT - EK VGA Supremacy - Ambient 37C  Load 51C  VRM - 80C (With 120mm Fan) 

Some updates of my build.  Previously I had troubles with air bubbles, foamy water and pump noises. Now those problem gone with these updates:


Purchase few 45degree adapter and use 45+90 degree fittings for the pump.  That reduce kink and improve flows.  No more high pressure flow, just constant flow.


Add 30mm extender fitting to the radiator. Add more flexibility and also reduce kink on tube.


Change from 50mm to 80mm reservoir. That gives more room for the liquid to breath. Totally solved my cyclone problem.


Slight problem though.  The reservoir block the A/C power cord. Even with right angle cord, it can't be squeeze to fit. Luckily, by removing the reservoir cap i manage to get the right angle plug attached.  That bubbles, all gone after few hours.

Anyone know where can i get slim right angle power cable?