Would like advise on new block for my AM3 PhII 945

[g0dM@n]

Right now I'm using an original D-Tek Fuzion. I have to take everything apart for some changes so I figured I'd just get a new block as my temps aren't the greatest.

Should I get the Apogee GTZ or the Fuzion v2? What mod(s) should I also get or do for each?

Thanks in advance.

[Evilsizer]

well someone pointed me to the Enzotech SCW-REV.A (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835708019). i havent been able to use it yet, tring to figure the rest of the parts. thought i would throw that one out there since according to a thread at XS, it didnt do that bad either. considering the price at newegg, it is the cheapest i could find that WB for. other places have it for around $50, another block to consider is the EK-Supreme LT (http://www.sidewindercomputers.com/ekltacfor775.html). i did look around and $49.99 is about what it goes for at other places.

[dark bishop]

http://www.xtremesystems.org/forums/showthread.php?t=224976

if you go with the v2 know that the graph doesn't reflect the temps now that they figured out its stock mounting brackets left it to loose.

[g0dM@n]

well someone pointed me to the Enzotech SCW-REV.A (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835708019). i havent been able to use it yet, tring to figure the rest of the parts. thought i would throw that one out there since according to a thread at XS, it didnt do that bad either. considering the price at newegg, it is the cheapest i could find that WB for. other places have it for around $50, another block to consider is the EK-Supreme LT (http://www.sidewindercomputers.com/ekltacfor775.html). i did look around and $49.99 is about what it goes for at other places.
Wow that first one is cheap!! But would it be BETTER than my Fuzion original?

It's just that I saw this Apogee GTZ for pretty cheap $42 + ship:
http://www.xoxide.com/swiftech-apogee-gtz-waterblock.html

xoxide is going out of business :(
http://www.xtremesystems.org/forums/showthread.php?t=224976

if you go with the v2 know that the graph doesn't reflect the temps now that they figured out its stock mounting brackets left it to loose.

SICK review, but way too complex for me. I just want the best block out there for my Phenom II that isn't one of the high-end expensive ones. $70-90 is not worth it for me to change a waterblock. $50 on the other hand might be, and the fuzion v2 and apogee gtz seem around that price range.

[Spawn-Inc]

spend the $50 on more rad... you can never have to much rad :)

[g0dM@n]

spend the $50 on more rad... you can never have to much rad :)

I have a triple rad with high-cfm deltas. :) The rad should be good enough. It's the panaflo he120.3

[Evilsizer]

GM,
if you read that link dark posted and look at the temps section. you can see how well that Enzo saph. does compare to others. IMO for the price at newegg it is really hard to beat. i didnt look but is your wb listed in that xs thread?

[Spawn-Inc]

i have three triples with 18 high speed yates and a air to water delta of .7C stock and 1.7C overclocked.

a new block will only offer a few more degrees, a new rad should offer at least double that. only problem is space.

but of the 2 blocks listed i would say get the Dtek as you can put more pressure on the chip. though with the price point of the GTZ i would lean towards that. hell i was seriously considering buying it to replace my dtek V2.

GM,
if you read that link dark posted and look at the temps section. you can see how well that Enzo saph. does compare to others. IMO for the price at newegg it is really hard to beat. i didnt look but is your wb listed in that xs thread?

doesn't look like it, only the V2 is there.

[g0dM@n]

I'm really thinking about that enzo but are i7 reviews comparable to AM3? I just haven't seen enough info.

[Evilsizer]

I'm really thinking about that enzo but are i7 reviews comparable to AM3? I just haven't seen enough info.

i dont see why not since both are native quad cores. the i7 just has a higher TDP AFIK. unless it depends on which PII you have on TDP for the quad core?

[just dan]

im not sure if this will fit on a am3 socket but the heatkiller 3.0 is the best block out of all of them.

[hokiealumnus]

Yea, but he's not looking to spend $80 (or $70). Honestly, I'd see how the Fusion v.1 works out for you. No reason to spend money on a new block if yours works as well as you'd like. Just a thought. :)

[g0dM@n]

Yea, but he's not looking to spend $80 (or $70). Honestly, I'd see how the Fusion v.1 works out for you. No reason to spend money on a new block if yours works as well as you'd like. Just a thought. :)

It doesn't seem to do that well, though... unless it's b/c I'm on an MCP350 pump (with modded top). I used to use a D5 pump with a dual-core CPU + GPU + dual rad.

Then I moved to a triple rad + dual-core CPU with an MCP350 and modded top. My MCP350 pump cannot be modded to 18W, so it runs at its rated 9-10W.

I'm thinking maybe the pump isn't enough for the Fuzion V1 to keep a quad-core cool enough, or perhaps the Fuzion V1 is just not good for a quad...

Either it's the waterblock, the pump, or both then...

[hokiealumnus]

That's not a ton of flow of course, but should be sufficient. Definitely don't go with anything restrictive for the new block if you plan on keeping it. I'd say the either that Enzotech since it's so inexpensive or the lower-end HK3.0 LC model (http://www.performance-pcs.com/catalog/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=495&products_id=25700).

Honestly, if between the two, I think I'd go with the HK. It doesn't have as much umph as its bigger brothers (due to the block base pin matrix being less dense), but will still do a great job. Heck, if you keep that pump, you'll want the lower restriction it affords anyway.

EDIT - I hate that they don't include these, but if you go with the HK, don't forget to add the back plate.

[g0dM@n]

Since I'm trying to keep costs low, here are the blocks that fit the budget that I'm trying to decide the BEST for my Phenom II 945:
HEATKILLER $50 + shiping @ Performance-PCs link (http://www.performance-pcs.com/catalog/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=498_495&products_id=25700)
Swiftech Apogee GTZ $42.00 + shipping @ Xoxide link (http://www.xoxide.com/swiftech-apogee-gtz-waterblock.html)
Enzotech SCW-REV.A Sapphire $34.99 + shipping @ NewEgg link (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835708019)
D-TEK FuZion v2 Extreme $55.95 + shipping @ Sidewindercomputeres link (http://www.sidewindercomputers.com/dfuv2expecpu.html) (though this isn't for AM3 and I might have to spend more on mounting hardware)
EK-Supreme LT - Acetal+Nickel $49.95 + shipping @ Sidewindercomputers link (http://www.sidewindercomputers.com/ekltacfor775.html) (this also isn't for AM2/AM3 and I'll need that hardware)

[g0dM@n]

That's not a ton of flow of course, but should be sufficient. Definitely don't go with anything restrictive for the new block if you plan on keeping it. I'd say the either that Enzotech since it's so inexpensive or the lower-end HK3.0 LC model (http://www.performance-pcs.com/catalog/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=495&products_id=25700).

Honestly, if between the two, I think I'd go with the HK. It doesn't have as much umph as its bigger brothers (due to the block base pin matrix being less dense), but will still do a great job. Heck, if you keep that pump, you'll want the lower restriction it affords anyway.

EDIT - I hate that they don't include these, but if you go with the HK, don't forget to add the back plate.

Funny you posted that. Check my post just after yours. I consolidated all of the advice I've been getting. :)

I'm DEFINITELY going to change my pump either to an MCP355 and just use the same modded top that I have from my MCP350, or just go back to my D5. The D5 isn't loud for my taste, but it's so much more convenient with the smaller pumps.

I'm definitely changing the pump, so keeping that in mind, I'd like to choose from the blocks in my previous post, unless there's still a better choice out there. My D-Tek Fuzion V1 was great for my old E8400s and E8500s, but I just don't think it's doing well with a quad, unless my setup just needs some tweaking...

[hokiealumnus]

HEATKILLER $50 + shiping @ Performance-PCs link (http://www.performance-pcs.com/catalog/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=498_495&products_id=25700) (The backplate from P-PCs will run you an additional $8, so keep that in mind.)
D-TEK FuZion v2 Extreme $55.95 + shipping @ Sidewindercomputeres link (http://www.sidewindercomputers.com/dfuv2expecpu.html) (though this isn't for AM3 and I might have to spend more on mounting hardware)
Enzotech SCW-REV.A Sapphire $34.99 + shipping @ NewEgg link (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835708019).
Swiftech Apogee GTZ $42.00 + shipping @ Xoxide link (http://www.xoxide.com/swiftech-apogee-gtz-waterblock.html)
EK-Supreme LT - Acetal+Nickel $49.95 + shipping @ Sidewindercomputers link (http://www.sidewindercomputers.com/ekltacfor775.html) (this also isn't for AM2/AM3 and I'll need that hardware)

That's the order of preference I have from the selection. The only reason the GTZ got such low billing is because of its mounting and I like the option to lap my CPU without worrying about block pressure.

You shouldn't need to purchase any mounting hardware for the FV2 if you go with it as long as you still have the FV1 mount still laying around. It should be interchangeable. I know this b/c mine has the old school universal mount attached to it, for the reason mentioned in the above paragraph. (The rest of the mounts (http://www.dtekcustoms.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWCATS&Category=236) also work on both blocks, according to dtek's product descriptions.) This is, of course, all contingent on AM3's mounting holes matching up to one of those universal spacings...and I have no idea about that.

Anyone wondering why the FV2 made it so high on the list, I would point to Vapor's recent post at XS (http://www.xtremesystems.org/forums/showthread.php?t=233968). Still rocking!

[g0dM@n]

The only reason the GTZ got such low billing is because of its mounting and I like the option to lap my CPU without worrying about block pressure.


What do you mean? You can't lap the GTZ?

[johan851]

I'm glad you asked this question g0dM@n - I'm thinking about a new block, but I didn't want to shell out $50. Looks like I can do it for $35, which is great.

Does anyone know how big of a difference I'll see between a modern block (most perform within a couple degrees of each other) and my old school MCW6002?

[hokiealumnus]

What do you mean? You can't lap the GTZ?
No, you can't lap a CPU under the GTZ. The mounting mechanism isn't meant for it per Gabe @ Swiftech over at XS. I'm sure you could add washers and what-not, but that's a pain. The 1366 mount on the FV2 has the same problem (even without lapping) as the link to Vapor's testing showed.

[g0dM@n]

I'm glad you asked this question g0dM@n - I'm thinking about a new block, but I didn't want to shell out $50. Looks like I can do it for $35, which is great.

Does anyone know how big of a difference I'll see between a modern block (most perform within a couple degrees of each other) and my old school MCW6002?
:) I'm still in deciding mode though... =/
No, you can't lap a CPU under the GTZ. The mounting mechanism isn't meant for it per Gabe @ Swiftech over at XS. I'm sure you could add washers and what-not, but that's a pain. The 1366 mount on the FV2 has the same problem (even without lapping) as the link to Vapor's testing showed.

Thanks for the info. I was actually thinking of lapping my CPU, too.

[hokiealumnus]

Sorry, took me a little bit to find it. Here's his post (http://www.xtremesystems.org/forums/showpost.php?p=3813697&postcount=62).
In all things that involve engineering, there are trade-offs. Performance, convenience, cost, etc.. The GTZ is designed to perform optimally with stock processors (the overwhelming majority) thus oriented to satisfy the majority of people. This is certainly a negative point for the GTZ from the prospective of lapped CPU owners, and be rest assured that being an enthusiast focused Company, we are working to provide a solution for this.

[g0dM@n]

Sorry, took me a little bit to find it. Here's his post (http://www.xtremesystems.org/forums/showpost.php?p=3813697&postcount=62).

THANKS FOR THE INFO, BUDDY!! :)

Well do I buy it or not, then? :)

I think it's OOS @ Xoxide now anyway, so... so much for getting it cheap.

[hokiealumnus]

At regular price, the GTZ & FV2 are basically a tie, at least on LGA775 according to Martin's testing a while ago @ XS. Saw that while looking for the post I linked to.

My $.02: if you're willing to spring for the more expensive option, the HK is your best bet.

[Dapman02]

It doesn't seem to do that well, though... unless it's b/c I'm on an MCP350 pump (with modded top). I used to use a D5 pump with a dual-core CPU + GPU + dual rad.

Then I moved to a triple rad + dual-core CPU with an MCP350 and modded top. My MCP350 pump cannot be modded to 18W, so it runs at its rated 9-10W.

I'm thinking maybe the pump isn't enough for the Fuzion V1 to keep a quad-core cool enough, or perhaps the Fuzion V1 is just not good for a quad...

Either it's the waterblock, the pump, or both then...

Well, my D-tek fuzion V2 keeps my PII @3.8Ghz and 1.45V around 45 degrees. I have Yate loon mediums going full blast on my 3x120 radiator inside of my HAF 932. I'm running 2200mhz on my NB @+.025V so it's nice and frosty :). \

One thing I did notice is that I had crappy temps on my V2. I noticed that I could never get it to properly squish my thermal paste. A few weeks ago I TIGHTEND the screws until I was worried about breaking my motherboard, that did the trick and gave me the temps I have today. Try tightening your screws as much as you can before you spend any more money.

[g0dM@n]

Well, my D-tek fuzion V2 keeps my PII @3.8Ghz and 1.45V around 45 degrees. I have Yate loon mediums going full blast on my 3x120 radiator inside of my HAF 932. I'm running 2200mhz on my NB @+.025V so it's nice and frosty :). \

One thing I did notice is that I had crappy temps on my V2. I noticed that I could never get it to properly squish my thermal paste. A few weeks ago I TIGHTEND the screws until I was worried about breaking my motherboard, that did the trick and gave me the temps I have today. Try tightening your screws as much as you can before you spend any more money.

I don't have springs or the necessary hardware. I lost one of the 4 springs, so I'm just using my own bolts and bowtie nuts. When I tighten more the AM2+ mounting piece starts to bend (the piece that goes OVER the Fuzion block). Is it supposed to be bent?

[Dapman02]

I don't have springs or the necessary hardware. I lost one of the 4 springs, so I'm just using my own bolts and bowtie nuts. When I tighten more the AM2+ mounting piece starts to bend (the piece that goes OVER the Fuzion block). Is it supposed to be bent?

I think it is suppose to bend a little bit, but it's a pretty solid piece of steel.

[g0dM@n]

I think it is suppose to bend a little bit, but it's a pretty solid piece of steel.

Not the V1's mount then...

[g0dM@n]

If I go with the Enzotech Sapphire from newegg, do I need this?
Enzotech Type-S AM2 Retention Module - Retail (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835708047)

If I don't, there's a TON of other things to choose from in the COMBO DEALS section. They're nothing big, but you get one free product and I was wondering if I need that retention bracket. I mean I have the one behind the mobo as they come with every board, but perhaps the bracket is needed?

[hokiealumnus]

Definitely don't need that; it comes with it! :)
Package Contents
Sapphire CPU Water Block
Type-S (AM2+ / AM2) Retention Module
1/2" High Flow Hose Barb
Hose Clamps
Three Mounting Clips & Fan Mount
Installation Guide
It's photographed with the block package (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835708019) as well, if you look at the last photo.

[g0dM@n]

Definitely don't need that; it comes with it! :)

It's photographed with the block package (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835708019) as well, if you look at the last photo.

You're right. I wonder why they sell it separately then...