Nico_CPK

Another part of the process that needs to be talked about is painting. Every layer of rust paint and details were painted by hand to reach the expected level of realism. And I humbly think it was worth it. Lots of people on socials are wondering if this rust is real and how we did it ! Also super happy to receive lots of comments saying this PC should belong to Max from Mad Max. Couldn’t be happier.

One thing I learned during this Casemod is that 3D printing is super useful but… I do prefer direct contact with the tools and materials. I think we reached a point where modding starts to be 3D printing only and everywhere. We reached a saturation point. In the end, these 3D printed + painted chassis look good but I don’t want a plastic PC. I want it to tell a story, a brutal and visceral one. And I want every step to matter. Today’s example is the back panel. We shot it with real bullets and picked up bullet casings for the accents of the case (and GPU antisag bracket 😅). You can’t mimic these impacts and, most importantly, the satisfaction of taking the case outside and have fun with friends. These are not drilled, these are not AI, these are life experiences.

Today I wanna speak about RGB. Those who know me are aware I don’t like RGB but I believe in some subtle touches. Very happy with the lighting on Thermaltake RAM and waterblock. With TT RGB PLUS Software I was able to have just the effect I wanted to complete the look of the build ! Super easy. And it can control the case’s screen behavior too ! All in one place 👌

As of now, I’m gonna post regular close shots of the build, for teasing purpose but mostly to highlight some key components and explain behind the scenes decisions. This first one definitely goes to Palit Maker. You can find detailed how-to reel on my socials about this super cool customization system. In the end it will be the only 3D printed part of my mod. All the rest, including this bullet socket GPU holder, has been worked on real life materials. More on that in the next post.

Sooo Casemod is finished, up and running but I think we can’t post finished build yet. Loop is clear for now but will be colored tomorrow then time for the photoshoot ! In the meantime, here are a few pictures of the Palit Maker cover after painting and a sneak peek of it in the build. Good luck to everyone for the final steps !

Worklog #9 : Palit Maker GPU cover is here ! Now it needs painting of course but I already installed it for a test fit… and it’s perfect ! During this competition I realized 3D printing is not an aspect of modding that I enjoy a lot. I will always choose raw real materials, metal if possible, when it comes to adding things to the case. BUT, this non destructive GPU cover is one of the best moves a brand made in a while in my opinion. Anybody can try it and it risk free. It is a call to creativity so : well done Palit ! I will keep supporting that initiative after the Casemod for sure. This said, I launched A TON of 3D printed parts before realizing I definitely prefer drilling and cutting. So now I have 41 centimeters exhausts for the build, wheel covers, fan covers and more. But I may simply not use them. Now that the loop is done and overall case is modded, they feel cheap (even when properly painted). I love the real bullet holes on the case, I love the gigantic custom distribution plate, I love all the work done on the chassis and don’t wanna cheap it with prints that won’t serve a function. Decision is not made but I consider limiting the 3D printed parts to the GPU cover and fan covers. Stay tuned and let me know if you have an opinion on that ! Also what do you think of my GPU antisag system ?

Worklog #8 : custom cables from MODDIY are here and they are beautiful ! Of course, I tested them with Thermaltake Dr Power III. Build will be powered by Thermaltake Toughpower PT1000 PSU. Side note : I took time to watch everyone’s progress. Magnificent stuff happening here, love it. I discovered that another modder decided to add wheels to its View 600 so I’m considering not using mines so we don’t have similar features. To be decided later on !

Worklog #7 : biggest step so far. The custom reservoir finally arrived ! Reservoir is PMMA CNCed and dual DDC pump top is made of brass. It fits like a glove ! I’m so happy with it 🤗 Now to work on the loop ! Keep in mind paint job is not finished on the pics 🫶 these are all work in progress

More work in progress. Please keep in mind painting is not finished on these ! Got to say I enjoy this part of the process so much more than 3D printing.

Worklog #6 paint still moving on ! First level of rust been applied to the case and to the motherboard. Still a lot of painting then drilling to do.

Worklog #5 : now we get into the enjoyable part ! Drilling and getting really in contact with the case and the material. View 600 is riveted everywhere but fairly easy to dismantle. Most parts are prepared for paint now. Reservoir part of the distro is still not hers, may take a few weeks, can’t wait to start the loop !

Worklog #4 : started 3D printing of the accents, here a decent 41 cm exhaust pipe 🫣. Not that I don’t recognize the value of 3D printing but I really don’t wanna make it the main part of the build. What I enjoy the most in modding is… everything implying a Dremel or a drill (see next post). However, 3D printing is a magnificent tool and I’m lucky enough to work on a daily basis with Mr Gabarit (check his Instagram). The man really mastered the print and helps me when designs are too wide for my personal one (like this pipe). This journey is about sharing and I’m learning a lot from him.

Worklog #3 finally getting real ! Pump top arrived and it is stunning. This is becoming very real and exciting 😍