How to replace the Processor Liquid Cooling Assembly on a Alienware Aurora ACT1250

This 3D experience gives you the step by step process of replacing the Processor Liquid Cooling Assembly and a Alienware Aurora ACT1250. The procedure will also include removing the Left Side Cover and reinstalling them.

Removal

Left Side Cover

1. Place the computer in an upright position as shown.
2. Identify the left side cover highlighted in blue.
3. Loosen the captive screw that secures the left side cover release latch to the chassis.
4. Pull the left side cover release latch to release the left side cover from the chassis.
5. At an angle, lift the left side cover from the chassis.
6. Place the computer in horizontal position as shown.

Processor Liquid Cooling Assembly

1. Identify the processor liquid cooling assembly highlighted in blue.
2. Disconnect the radiator and fan assembly cables from the system board.
3. Disconnect the processor liquid cooling assembly cables from the system board.
4. Loosen the captive screws that secure the processor liquid cooling assembly to the system board. Loosen them in reverse order.
5. Remove the screws that secure the radiator and fan assembly to the chassis.
6. Press the spring latch to release the radiator and fan assembly.
7. Lift the processor liquid cooling assembly and cables off the system.
8. Use the alcohol pad to clean the heat sink. (as shown in the video)

Install

Processor Liquid Cooling Assembly

1. Identify the processor liquid cooling assembly location highlighted in blue.
2. Apply paste or a pad included with the heatsink. Apply it in a spiral pattern.
3. Align with the screw holes and install the processor liquid cooling assembly onto the system. Ensure the spring latch is locked.
4. Install screws to secure the radiator and fan assembly to the chassis.
5. Tighten the captive screws that secure the processor liquid cooling assembly to the system board. Tighten them in order. Do not overtighten.
6. Connect the processor liquid cooling assembly cables to the system board.
7. Connect the radiator and fan assembly cables to the system board.

Left Side Cover

1. Place the computer in an upright position as shown.
2. Identify the left side cover location highlighted in blue.
3. Align the tabs at the bottom and tilt the left side cover toward the computer until it clicks into place.
4. Tighten the captive screw that secures the left side cover release latch to the chassis.