Got the new tank...

[spjeff69]

Well, I got the new tank from Glasscages, 120 gallon. I also bought a 40 gallon tub from TSC as my sump.

Now, I am debating on which skimmer to get. I can't decide between Euro-Reef ES5-3 or ASM G2. Any suggestions?

I don't know which return pump to get either. I don't want external though.

[fishdoc11]

What types of corals are you planning to keep in the tank?

[spjeff69]

Mixed. Some SPS, but more LPS.

[fishdoc11]

I would go for at least a G3 if you could. The ES5-3 will be way too small IMO. I have an ES6-1 on my 40 breeder and IMO it's good for about a 50 gallon at most. You might look around for used skimmers.
External is really the way to go on a return pump. Since you don't want to go that route an Eheim 1262 would be a good pump but then you will only have about 650 gph going through your sump which is fine depending. A Mag 9.5 would be the cheaper version but Mags are Mags.

Chris

[spjeff69]

Why is external the way to go? It would prob be hard to drill through the sump though.

[fishdoc11]

In general external pumps add less heat to the tank, they are more efficient energywise, produce more flow with a head/under pressure and are more reliable.

[spjeff69]

So how would I go about adding an external pump to a plastic tub?

[fishdoc11]

I've heard the tubs are relatively easy to drill but I have never done it so I don't know. I'm guessing you cut a hole, install a bulkhead and add a npt fitting to add some flexible PVC(I am assuming you need flex because of the odd angle, could be wrong).

The submersible will be easier if you don't feel like getting into all that. It's just when you add a submersible pump, skimmer with submersible pump and lights sometimes a chiller becomes needed and that's a lot of $.

Have you looked at some of the TOTM's and seen what equipment they use? There are a bunch of 120's and that's a good place to get ideas.

FWIW, Chris

[foggy54]

A lot of the tubs have drain plugs and if not usually they put a flat spot on the tub that is for the purpose of a bulkhead which they also sell at Rural King............

[spjeff69]

I'll take a look at drilling a hole. What external pump would I need? What is a npt fitting?

[spjeff69]

This tub is rounded at the ends and is flat on the sides. I have no room on the sides for any plumbing. So I guess internal is the way to go for me.

[foggy54]

Npt abbreviation for National Pipe Thread I think? if you use an external pump make sure you use a union or have a way to remove your pump when you get ready to clean / service it.. I wish I would have thought of using one on mine...........

[fishdoc11]

Very good point Foggy. I guess I've been using the wrong term:rolleyes: That's what I get for being fancy:lol:
I should just say nipple.....there I said it NIPPLE!

[boofer]

NIPPLE< NIPPLE< NIPPLE:D
I agree with Chris on the 5-3...Thats what I have and unless you get the Sedra 5000 on it, its maybe good for a 75 at most. I was running it on a 55 gal/50 sump and it wasnt doing as good as when I had it on my 29gal/10sump.
What kind of tub are you using, BTW?

[spjeff69]

just a 40 gallon rubber/platic tub that I got at TSC

[eyebedam]

Post a pic of the new tank.

[spjeff69]

We are still staining the stand and canopy. I'll post some pics soon. What plumbing pieces do I need to get? I will be using a Mag12 as the return.

[spjeff69]

Which Mogul should I get for my MH lights?

[spjeff69]

Anyone?