To stop thermal throttling you would need to change pads, yes... MSI would find out when they take it apart unless you put back all the original pads. Then you might get away with it.
I might just try that and put back the thermal pads how they where if ever i need to RMA. U sure theres no other way they can tell i removed the backplate ?
Sucks cause i bought these cards that retail more than other brands because i didnt wanna have to deal with heating issues . Had i know i would of saved some money and get the evga xc3 ultra .
[/quote]
The xc3 also get hot and do thermal throttling if an oc is done.