How do I get a PCI card in?

[Morshu9001]

I took the PCI graphics card (the ATI) out of my 2008 Mac Pro, and I can't get it back in. I've been trying for about half an hour to slide the card in. All of the tutorials say to just line up the pins and put it in, but that doesn't work. There's no way to see the slot where the pins are supposed to go into while I'm inserting the card.

Any tips on lining the card up? I know there is some kind of guide rail on the right, but I can't seem to get it right. I keep getting it to seemingly fit, but it won't push in, and I know never to force a card in. I actually got it all the way in once (no idea how it fit) and even put the screws on the thing that holds the PCI cards in, but it still felt loose.

I've been using a flashlight, which helps a little but not enough. I even tried sticking a small camera in there to see. There's just no way to see where I'm sliding the card in, and the sharp corners on it cut into my fingers.

 

[alphaod]

First make sure you disconnect the power and the cables and then lay the the chassis flat against the ground, so the PCIe cards will vertical against the computer.

Now make sure you have adequate lighting. Now make sure the bracket edge (the side without the connectors) is lined up with the slot on the left side label (1). Make sure the power cables [if applicable] are not underneath because those can get in the way. Next you want to slide it in, so the PCIe connector lines up with the slot. The metal bracket on the edge (with the DVI) will wedge into the space between the chassis and edge of the motherboard. Basically the bracket should rub against the metal for a clean fit. You'll want to push hard as there is resistance when inserting the card. There should be a little screw clip to secure the PCIe card in.

Connect the power cord to the video cards, and then connect the previously connected cords on the back, before plugging in the power. See if you have any issues. If you don't, put the side cover back on.

 

[Morshu9001]

You'll want to push hard as there is resistance when inserting the card.

This was it. Maybe I got it into a better position than the times when it felt right but didn't move in at all, but it fit in perfectly with a little extra force this time.