Installation

You will want to get the backplate ready first. Start by sliding the backplate's screws into place, and use the plastic buckles to hold them in place. With that done, simply fit the backplate to the motherboard.


It is now time to prepare the pump for mounting. Grab the proper mounting brackets, in my case Intel's, and use the small silver screws to secure them to the pump. Now is also a good time to install the fan to prepare the radiator for mounting inside a case.


Carefully apply an adequate amount of thermal paste to the processor's IHS before placing the Maelstrom's pump onto the CPU. Make sure to secure it in place with the included thumbscrews.


All that remains is to attach the fan and pump headers to the motherboard to complete the install.

It is very easy to work with the Gamer Storm Maelstrom 120's mounting hardware. Only the four screws for the mounting bracket were a problem due to the size of my fingers, as I tried to hold the tiny things, and while the mounting hardware is very good overall, I feel as through the cooler could benefit from better mounting pressure. That said, I would rate the installation an 8 on a scale of 1 (hardest) to 10 (easiest).