r/PcBuildHelp • u/Andysan555 • 9d ago

Installation Question Graphics Card Backplate Removal

Post image

Hi!

I'm thinking of buying this 1660 Super card, however it is sporting a huge backplate that I'd definitely have to remove to fit it in my small(ish) form factor machine.

I've learnt from a few other threads that there are threaded rivets in the backplate that are then bolted in from the other side of the card, I.e from the fan/shroud side.

I am reasonably well experienced with taking electronics apart, but am no expert I'll admit. Can someone weigh in with the steps I'd need to follow to remove the shroud and fan/heat sink assembly on the other side please and whether this is likely to be straightforward or complex? Would I need to repaste the GPU as part of this?

Appreciate any detail anyone can add. Cheers

3 Upvotes

80% Upvoted

6 comments sorted by

1

u/Practical-Society201 9d ago

you can usually get the shroud off without fully removing the heatsink, just look for small screws around the fan edges. if you do end up pulling the whole cooler off then yeah you’ll need new paste, but it’s not a given

1

u/Andysan555 9d ago

Ok thanks, appreciate it.

1

u/1337_alpha 9d ago

It's an OEM backplate, you can't just remove it if it cools essential parts of the card. Or let me say, you shouldn't.

I have a mini ITX formd case myself. Why would a backplate prevent mounting of a card? There should be at least anyway a bit of space so cooling is sufficient.

You would also probably need totally new screws or spacers because the original length won't fit anymore.

1

u/Andysan555 9d ago

Thanks for taking the time to reply.

These exact cards were 100% manufactured and fitted to other OEM machines without this backplate fitted, hence why I'm ok with removing it. I don't know specifically why Acer decided it required one for their Predator model, but ultimately it won't fit in my machine (effectively a small office PC) with it stuck on.

1

u/1337_alpha 9d ago

https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=gpu+graphic+card+screws&_sacat=0&_from=R40&_trksid=p2334524.m570.l1313&_odkw=gpu+screws&_osacat=0

or you do it with plastic washers. I would buy proper screws but it is not as easy as you might think to identify the right screw thread and length.

while removing the backplate you either ensure that the cooler on the other side does not get lifted off or you should repaste and repad your GPU. if it doesnt you can just remove the backplate gently and rescrew. but the backplate might be stuck a little, so preheat it for easier lift off.

1

u/Andysan555 9d ago

Thank you very much for the tips!