Can I install this CPU fan without removing the Motherboard? (and other questions)

Jul 16, 2013
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Hey guys,

I recently bought a Hyper Evo 212 for my computer with a Cooler Master Elite 430 Mid Tower case, and I was wondering if it would be faster and easier to just install it with the motherboard inside the case.

I've heard that for most ssituations doing this is more trouble than it's worth, but my particular case has a little window behind the cpu's portion of the mortherboard specifically for this. Furthermore, my particular fan does not want me to screw the clunky fan directly into the motherboard bracket, but to install the bracket first using the included standoffs and then screw the fan down into the standoffs.

Main question
So my plan is to avoid taking everything apart by first removing the stock fan and brackets and then standing the computer upright so that I can hold the bracket in place on one side of the motherboard while securing it with the standoffs on the other. Once all of the standoffs are secured, I plan to then set the case on its side, apply the thermal grease, and then screw down the fan into the standoffs (in a star pattern of course).
Would this be a good plan, or is there something I'm missing?


Thanks guys :)