Yes, you can boot without cooling depending on the system and model.
Yes, you can boot without cooling depending on the system and model.
You can start the system and configure it without using the GPU cooling fans. Just install the EK water block and skip the coolant flow through the cooling system. After booting, you can run Windows 8 and then shut it down.
Ensure everything is ready before installing stock coolers; otherwise, you might need to set up the system first, which isn't ideal.
I'll wait for the GPU to be ready and then set up the water cooling system.
You installed the old Xeon X3350 without a CPU cooler and successfully set up Vista, drivers, and even the Windows update.