Advice for drilling tank -75 g

[makai531]

I'm moving forward with the 75 g. My next step is to drill and plumb it.

 

I decided to do a Herbie overflow (1 full siphon, 1 emergency overflow) using 1" drains and a 3/4" return. I've bought my bulkheads and internal overflow box ( RSS18 - 12 1/2" L x 4" W x 5 1/4" H (Up to 200 gallon tank), and have hole saws and a 3/4" Loc-line return on the way.

 

I hope to initially use a mag 5 pump until funds allow me to upgrade to a dc6000.

 

Questions-

Positioning the box? I was considering putting the overflow box in the center of the tank for esthetics (good views from 3 sides. That would put it right below center brace. I'd also have to route drain pipes around back center support in stage stand. Is that a good or bad idea?

 

If I do center the box, would I need or want to have two returns or would one suffice?

 

When I mount the box, should I mount it so it is flush to the trim? That would make the bottom of the teeth in the box 1" below the trim.

 

I was thinking the overflows should be drilled as low as they could be in the box as I could adjust the drain heights as needed. Good thinking?

 

What level in the tank should the return be drilled? Any specifics on that positioning?

 

Here's a photo- excuse the stuff in the tank. Testing for leaks and cleaning it with vinegar, so I decided to soak some AQ stuff I needed to clean:)

 

[wildcrazyjoker81]

So basically yours would look similar to this

Here is a link to the page

http://www.gtaaquaria.com/forum/showthread.php?t=40244

 

As far as having one or two returns that is up to you. It all comes down to how much flow you want and if your just going to used internal pumps for that flow or just the return.

Edited May 27, 2014 by wildcrazyjoker81

[BowieReefer84]

I would run a single return over the back of the tank to avoid drilling another hole.  Also, this will allow you to make the siphon line very close to the surface of the water in case of a poweroutage.

[trockafella]

Drill everything. It looks much cleaner and it makes having a top/screen on your tank much easier.

[Coral Hind]

I would put the box up high against the trim frame to ensure the water level is not seen when viewing the tank. I would drill the return line about an inch below the water. You can use elbows or lock-line fittings to direct flow.

[makai531]

All, thanks for the advice. Wildcrazyjoker81, thanks for the link. That build is exactly what I was imagining in my head. Nice to be able to see it in practice.

[treesprite]

Are you planning to drill from outside of the tank or from inside? I drill from inside the tank whenever possible, because I feel steadier and there seems to be less vibration of the glass when there is something solid under it rather than air. 

[Coral Hind]

He drilled it already. Here is a newer thread with pictures.

http://wamas.org/forums/topic/66691-drilling-badge/