1/2 return?

[gixxer600]

I aquired a 135 gallon tank and i got to looking at it and it only has a 1/2" hole drilled in it for a return/drain. I think when the tank was set-up the 1/2" was used for the return. IS this ok or should i try and do something different? There are 2 holes drilled in it currently that are (1) 1" and(1) 1/2".

 

[sree]

Its usually 1" for drain and 3/4" for the return.

 

[holabird]

You want the bigger hole for the drain because it is gravity fed. The smaller one is force fed by the return pump. You don't want to limit your drain.

 

[porpoiseaquatics]

That was common on tanks a few years ago. Oceanic was famous for those sizes on their tanks. Won't hurt you at all.

 

[rbredding]

my question is that if you've only got a 1/2" hole, how small is the bulkhead that goes through it...

(or is that the bulkhead size.. ?)

 

[acroholic]

If you are going to use a single 1/2" bulkhead (assume your "1/2" hole is a bulkhead) for the only return for a 135 gallon, then I suggest you have some good in-tank circulation, or consider getting that hole drilled out to accommodate a 3/4" bulk. Two 1" bulks for drain and two 3/4" bulks for return would be preferable.

 

[gixxer600]

Thanks for the help. the 1/2" size is the bulkhead and i would use that for the return. Is it possible to drill the same hole again but bigger?

 

[acroholic]

gixxer600;622683 wrote: Thanks for the help. the 1/2" size is the bulkhead and i would use that for the return. Is it possible to drill the same hole again but bigger?

Yes it is. Glass bits do not use center guide bits, as far as I know.

 

[rbredding]

Acroholic;622689 wrote: Yes it is. Glass bits do not use center guide bits, as far as I know.

Correct, they do not..


I know people have been successful, using a 2X4 template (hole cut in the center) to ensure that the diamond bit doesn't walk on them...

 

[gixxer600]

Thats a good idea with the 2x4. Now i just have to make sure i have enough room to clear both bulkheads