Have you checked for dust? Dust buildup outside the fans can also block airflow. I just replaced my fans because they were constantly spinning at top speed and not cooling, and while the fans themselves were dusty, I found far more dust in a thick layer just behind the fans. It's also possible there's something else blocking the airflow. The less obstruction to the airflow, the more efficient the cooling, and the less your fans have to spin.
The motherboard is still attached. There’s two more screws at the top corners of the central section between the fans, and the sides still seem to be attached somehow. I’m not sure to what exactly. The ports maybe? Either way, I can’t get it out.