Modding a dell 4550 PC ???

[Guest]

Hey folks, I had someone give me a 2001 Dell Dim 4550. The PC still runs OK, he just upgraded.(yea, a bit late by 5+ years). I thought about gutting it, and dropping in something minimally in a dual core processor, maybe 4-6 gigs RAM, good vid card, and PSU, new DVD/RW and 600+ gig hard drive. I kinda look at it like dropping a Blown Hemi, into a Dodge Dart. Can anyone provide a working parts list? I am a handy fab & nut & bolt guy, just not hip with parts, as I am not "In the business" so-to-speak. Just a once in a while "odd" project type. I like the larger tower style of this PC, and all the drive spaces. Plus, it was a close friends, who bought it new. I even got the O.E.M. XP SP-1 disc, and a bunch of older O.E.M. software. Was a nice PC when new! Anyways, it would be cool with a CPU fan in the side etc...just looking "modded". Like a Dodge Dart with a blower poking through the hood. Heck, I may shoot it "Panther Pink" with black stripes...LOL! Anyways, I would prefer a drop in parts "system", that is tried & prooven, as not to be a maintenance hog. Cost is not unlimited, but comes second to reliability & lack of major issues. Noise isn't a real issue, but obviously not preferred. If anyone can help, or if it's just a waste, let me know. As mentioned, this is just a "for fun project", not my main "PC squeeze". No hurry, but any help appreciated! Kind regards to all!!
P.S. I receintly had major problems with a supplier initialed T.D. & I would prefer to avoid them right now, till my right cheek quits "stinging". Maybe keep that in mind too.

 

[king smp]

you would have to drop in a complete new motherboard
basically just use the case
but the problem with that is that Dell usually especially back then did not
use a standard form factor case (ie ATX,mATX etc)
so trying to make aftermarket mobos fit is rough
using the motherboard that came in it is just as you said a waste

If you are good with a Dremel and hand tools then by all means
have fun

it would be cool to have an old Dell tower like that with a modern I7 running inside
of it (like a Corvette LS-6 in a 4 door box Nova LOL)
but only if budget wasnt a major concern

 

[Guest]

I have ran into this before with an older, and smaller cased dell. I thought the larger case might eliminate the problem. I think the plug in, for the front panel was also O.E.M. specific too. Oh well, Hemi's don't fit into Dart's very easy anyway......you're OK for a Chevy guy...LOL! Many Thanks, Problem solved!

 

[king smp]

I love all cars

I have no problem with a 69 426 Hemi Charger sitting in my driveway LOL
Did you see the new RT Hemi Challenger
I just saw one in black and it is tough

 

[chriskrum]

The power supply in the case may be non-standard. You might have to replace it to work with a more modern motherboard and a replacement might not fit in it. Some Dells had their own Dell specific pin outs.

In the end all you are saving is the case and computer cases aren't that expensive. It might be best to leave it as is and use it for older games. That's what I do with an old compaq I've got--great nostalgia toy.