Installing Gigabyte motherboard in a Dimension 4700 case

[usr_cal30_m1]

I decided to tackle rebuilding my PC, reusing the Dell case but filling it with new off-the-shelf components. I have a new PSU and finally received the I/O shield for the motherboard.

When I tried to trial fit the motherboard, it would not fit properly. The mounting holes all lined up but the Dimension 4700 case has a raised panel in the area where the motherboard is installed. The panel is located immediately beneath the original OEM CPU mounting location and was used to secure the CPU mounting frame. The panel is about 2.375" x 3.75" and stands .25 proud to the surrounding panel. This raised panel is too high for my new Micro-ATX Gigabyte GA-Z77M-D3H motherboard, it interferes.

The raised panel is stamped as part of the original chassis but is only attached by six narrow strips near the corners and in the middle of the long sides, it would be pretty easy to cut or snip the strips and simply remove the panel, leaving a hole underneath the CPU mounting area on the new board.

Can I simply cut out the raised panel from the case or do I need to provide support immediately below the CPU mount on the new board?

I figure the worst that can happen is I need to buy a case if I can't make the Dell case work.

Thanks for any comments.

 

[i7Baby]

Just cut it out. The mobo will be supported on its standoffs.