Thanks for the detailed pictures of the process.
Unfortunate of the RGB : ), lovely no-nonsense EPDM hoses*, I use them as well with some big NexXxoS XT45 radiator in custom paumelle hinged 19" rack mount, Eisdecke D5 Dual brass top**(x2 VPP755 pumps), with the Powercolor R9700 to be added in the loop.
*First some hose sampled from EKWB, ending up just buying them from some local rubber EPDM hose semi business/retailer combined with EKWB fittings, it saves costs and allows mixing 10/13 and 10/16 tubing.
**For anyone who intents to buy that D5 top, I suggest to remove/sandpaper the paint from the inside of the pump housing so it’s pure brass touching water, or flakes of paint will end up in your loop after a year or so.
I see a some concerns about the passive VRAM cooling on the back, how is it holding up for you?