Mod of the Month - July 2007

Author: Brett Thomas
Published: 30th July 2007
Comments (60) Stumble

Project: Gearbox

by THEkorean
Worklog

Pretty much everyone on this forum aside from me is absolutely in love with the simple designs of Lian Li cases. Don't get me wrong, I'm not against them - but it does seem like we have an almost irrational obsession with the idea of a properly made blank canvas.

One case that even I am hard-pressed to find a substitute for is the mATX-sized v300. There are very few quality mATX cases out on the market, and the v300 is one of only two that come well recommended (the other being the Silverstone SG-01). mATX brings its own complications to a mod design - but that's just what THEkorean was looking for.

The key to a proper Lian Li mod is often managing to retain any of the subtle 'industrial' nature present in the case - so it's probably helpful that THEkorean chose the concept of gears and machination as his theme.


Mod of the Month - July 2007 Gearbox by THEkorean Mod of the Month - July 2007 Gearbox by THEkorean

Project Gearbox didn't necessarily start with a plan - but that doesn't mean you can't whip one up as you're going along. This concept drawing and the Sketchup happened after the mod started to take shape, once THEkorean could properly visualize where he was headed.

Mod of the Month - July 2007 Gearbox by THEkorean Mod of the Month - July 2007 Gearbox by THEkorean

First things first, what's a Lian Li without watercooling? After some careful measurements, THEkorean cut two 120mm holes out with a rather beastly Dremel attachment.


Mod of the Month - July 2007 Gearbox by THEkorean Mod of the Month - July 2007 Gearbox by THEkorean

The mod is getting several little custom additions, such as these feet from a speaker and a specially built PSU bracket. The bracket was a necessity, as he's using a monster PSU!


Mod of the Month - July 2007 Gearbox by THEkorean Mod of the Month - July 2007 Gearbox by THEkorean

This lighted gear, whipped up from his Dremel Scrollstation, is THEkorean's first piece of decorative work on the mod. We'll be looking forward to seeing these details appear more through the rest of the mod, though!


Mod of the Month - July 2007 Gearbox by THEkorean Mod of the Month - July 2007 Gearbox by THEkorean

The watercooling loop is in the process of being assembled, and contains some of the neatest fittings I've seen yet. These quick-disconnect fittings will seal as you unclip them, allowing you to disassemble your loop without having to drain it first. Nice!

The case is currently being reinforced across the motherboard and backplate, and hinges have been added. Why? Well, you'll just have to take a look through the worklog to find out. Trust us when we say it's worth a read.

If you think this mod should win this month's competition, don't forget to vote for it in this thread! Voting closes on 9th August 2007.

Shopping