EK-FC7950 _not_ compatible with certain 7950 "Reference" cards?

[lonkny]

I've been a loyal EK customer for years. I'm starting my latest build and have always used EK nickel/plexi full board blocks for my video cards. I love them and have never had an issue. I checked their site to determine the card I was looking at was compatible with their 7950 block:

http://www.coolingconfigurator.com/s...t?gpu_gpus=606

I purchased the card over a month ago and have already cut the box to submit the rebate. When I had enough money to make a PPCS purchase for all the watercooling parts, I bought the block & backplate. When it arrived the other day, I voided the warranty by removing the stock cooler (breaking the warranty stickers) and have found that the video card is apparently not even close to a reference design, considering the EK block is not even close to fitting. This is my 4th or 5th watercooled build, so I am not new to mounting blocks. It's not even close!

I contacted EK 2 days ago via their website and haven't heard back yet. Does anyone know what my recourse is here, if any? I'd hate to have to sell a brand new video card for much less than I paid when it hasn't even been used, not to mention the delay in my build this will/has already caused. Very frustrating!

In the meantime - can anyone recommend a 7950 REFERENCE CARD that is actually reference? I've been looking at this one as a replacement:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16814131478

Does anyone know if this is for sure a Reference design and will therefore work with the EK-FC7950? I don't want to void another warranty / rebate etc. to find out it won't work. It is listed by EK as being supported but so was the XFX...

http://www.coolingconfigurator.com/s...t?gpu_gpus=846

I appreciate any insight anyone might have with regard to this mess! Thanks!!

** EDIT ** : So now I'm reading that EK has been "flaky" at best with their new nickel plating process, so maybe it's time I switch manufacturers after all. Does anyone know a waterblock that might work with my XFX 7950 card by any chance??