Quote:
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Boli: It should optimally go res-->pump-->block(s)--->rad--->res
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Note that the exact flow pattern is a subject of 'religious debate' (a topic considered to be highly important and subject to much passion on the part of the debaters, not as important to others...
) Many people will not like the arrangement Boli suggests, preferring to go Pump > RAD > Block(s) > res > pump.
The theory is that this runs the coolant through the rad just before the blocks so that the blocks see the coolest possible water. Boli's theory is that you want to dump the heat picked up in the blocks ASAP, and not leave it sitting around in the plumbing warming up the rest of the case.
I'm partial to the Pump > RAD > Block(s) > res > pump theory myself, but don't think it makes a great deal of difference either way. Probably it is best to use whatever layout makes the most sense in your system.
However it is by far the best if the output from the Res feeds directly into the pump intake, preferably with a very short, straight, run, using the largest diameter hose possible. The idea is that you don't want ANY restriction on the pump's intake side if you can avoid it.
Something else that is helpful but not everyone does, is to make sure you mount your block(s) so that the output (or an output if the block has several) is at the highest possible point on the block. Also make sure that the tubing goes UP for at least a short distance after the outlet. This makes the system easier to bleed the air out of, and minimizes the chance of getting air bubbles trapped in the blocks. (does TERRIBLE things to the cooling when that happens!)
Generally speaking, it is best if the water flows in a mostly upwards direction from the pump to the res, so that any air gets pushed into the res. The pump should pull from the bottom of the res, and the coolant should return to the top of it. You should avoid high loops that can trap air in them.
(BTW, other than the minor issue with flow patterns, Boli's advice is very good...)
Gooserider