How do I remove the top panel of an Antec case?

[WeaponX]

I have an Antec 1030B case and I'm not sure how I can remove the top panel. I need to cut a 120mm hole but I don't want to do it with everything in the computer otherwise the metal dust will fall in and ruin my PSU. How do I take it off??

 

[IFMU]

The easiest thing to do would be to take all of that out. I have an antec case as well and with it the only way to get it off would be to drill out the rivets that are holding it on. Im presuming that will be pretty much the same. I would suggest just taking everything out of it, PSU and all then cut the hole and clean it out real well and put it all back together once youve done all the modding that you want.
Just my 2 coppers and experience with my antec!~!

IFMU

 

[stool]

IFMU is right. You NEVER want to be cutting on your case with the components inside. Either remove them all(safer and easier), or grind or drill the rivets out, then after you cut do your mods, tap the holes so you can use screws to replace the top.

 

[WeaponX]

I really don't want to have to take everything out....but if I have to...

 

[rUfUnKy]

I really don't want to have to take everything out....but if I have to...

I just painted my rig and plan on putting in a 120mm blow hole in the future.Thinking ahead I just drilled out the rivets so I can just take it off when the time comes and also so I could paint it separately. Theres three rivets in the front , three in the back and I believe one on each side also. just use a small drill bit on low speed so pieces of metal aren't flying everyware. I held a small cloth on the opposite side of were I was drilling to catch and small metal pieces. I said small an aweful lot didn't I? ...

 

[stevens]

I just used a srewdriver and a hammer and all of the rivets came out easily.

 

[takiwa]

use a 1/8" drill bit to drill the rivets out...then buy some #10 x 1/2" metal screws to screw the top back on, no need to tap the holes...

 

[Acko]

They are all great ideas but IFMU is right you should`nt attempt to take the top off with all the components still installed it`s not worth the risk. However drilling out the rivets is the next best idea but that swarf can get in anywhere & if it settles on the wrong bits, on power up BANG!!

Acko

 

[OKCFUNKY]

Due to my heat requirements, dual proc system, what would be the best way to mount plexiglass as a side panel, like replacing the metal one, and mounting one as the front, though the drives stick out. I would also like to know if lucite, med strength can handle the dril holes at the top, about 1/4 inch from the edges of the acrylic sheet