[SOLVED] How do I mount new mobo standoffs in used pc case?

[Snarpkvartez]

I have been planning to build a sleeper gaming pc from scratch by using an old dell dimension e521 case to create the sleeper look.

https://se.pcpartpicker.com/list/Wv9sf9


When planning I realised that I would have to install mini itx mobo to replace the outdated btx mobo and because it's a btx case but that would require modding the case by drilling new stand off holes for the mobo which is something I am willing to do.

But there is one problem and it's that I am having a hard time finding information regarding how to install new mini itx mobo standoffs.

I do need a drill to make new holes and luckily I have a battery powered drill.

I have also found out that apparently you need a special type drilbit which I have no idea what it's called in swedish or where to even get one.

What tools do you need to perform this type of case modding and what drillbit size should I be using?

 

[jay32267]

I don't understand why you would need a special drill to drill a case for standoffs.

I drill cases for standoffs all the time with a standard drill.

Just put the holes where they need to go.

 

[InvalidError]

Just put the holes where they need to go.

That would be fine in an ITX/mATX/ATX case but OP wants to build inside a BTX case, which makes things a 'little' more complicated. BTX boards have completely different layout from ATX, swapping the locations the chipset and CPU normally sit at so the CPU. I've seen a few of those a long time ago, pretty neat how Dell ducts the front intakes directly to the CPU.

I have also found out that apparently you need a special type drilbit which I have no idea what it's called in swedish or where to even get one.

What tools do you need to perform this type of case modding and what drillbit size should I be using?

If everything else lands where it needs to and standoffs are the only thing causing issues, then what you need is:
1- a center punch to mark the center of every hole you want to drill and help keep the drill bit centered
2- the correct size drill for the size of hole you need to tap
3- the correct tap to cut threads that match your standoff's threads and a suitable tap handle

 

[Snarpkvartez]

That would be fine in an ITX/mATX/ATX case but OP wants to build inside a BTX case, which makes things a 'little' more complicated. BTX boards have completely different layout from ATX, swapping the locations the chipset and CPU normally sit at so the CPU. I've seen a few of those a long time ago, pretty neat how Dell ducts the front intakes directly to the CPU.


If everything else lands where it needs to and standoffs are the only thing causing issues, then what you need is:
1- a center punch to mark the center of every hole you want to drill and help keep the drill bit centered
2- the correct size drill for the size of hole you need to tap
3- the correct tap to cut threads that match your standoff's threads and a suitable tap handle

I just started reading about taps and what they are used for and now I know what they are used for which is to create threads for screw holes.

But I do have one last question and that is what handle size should I use ?

 

[InvalidError]

But I do have one last question and that is what handle size should I use ?

A tap handle size appropriate for the size of tap you are using, which is going to be pretty small for 2-3mm taps. Unless the motherboard tray is removable, you won't be able to use anything larger than what your case size allows you to work with. A possible work-around if the case gets in the way and the back of the motherboard tray is accessible would be to tap from the back once the holes are drilled.