Noctua NH-L9x65 Fan Install on AM3+ Motherboard

Originally Posted 06/01/25

Picture of the box for a Noctua NH-L9x65 CPU fan

Background Info

I wanted to make this post just in case someone has to do something similar. I recently was able to scavenge an eWasted gaming PC for Michelle. It has an older processor (AMD FX-8320) with the AM3+ socket type (as far as I know). When testing the computer, it seemed like the stock CPU cooler that was on it was very loud, and so I wanted to replace it with a newer, quieter one. I ordered a Noctua NH-69x65, thinking it would fit, but no, I was mistaken. Luckily, Noctua has an order form where if you can send them a picture of the fan and motherboard order, they'll send you an adapter kit. They were able to send me a kit, but it did not come with any instructions.

It took me a bit of digging, but I eventually found a copy of instructions online from when these adapter kits used to be included with the fan, that helped us through it. I wanted to put the instructions here, in case someone else ever needs the instructions as well.

Instructions

Pictures

Some photos from the install!

photo of the Noctua fan in the case Photo of Michelle smiling near her 'new' computer