i think i have all the parts i still need ordered, including a support request to noctua for a free cpu fan mounting clip set. i requested yesterday using their super easy web form, and they emailed me today that it is on the way. i didnt pay the fee for express service, since the last time i did a request i had the free mounting kit i required in 8 days via dhl.
and to celebrate a successful re-repair, in goes the 980ti. i put in the riser cable in so now i can leave the gpu installed while i wait for the parts.