External Overflow Question

[Hampton]

I'm customizing a new tank with an external Calfo overflow. I plan on ordering a rimless tank and having the back glass cut 1" shorter than the front and sides. Once it's here, I'll construct an external overflow box with holes in the bottom for outflow to the sump. I'm going to also Eurobrace it on the front and sides.

I'm planning on installing a 2" wide piece of glass the length of the back of the tank, just about 1/4" above the back wall, to leave a slot through which water will flow, but not too many snails or fish.

Anyone see any glaring concerns? Is there any problem with attaching an external overflow box on the top, back of the tank? The box would be 3 sides and a bottom sealed to the back of the tank. It would only be about 4" wide and maybe 5" deep.

Thanks in advance for assistance.

 

[Hampton]

Bump (In the Night)

 

[kwl1763]

You should be fine. Depending on how long it is you may need a brace in the middle to connect to the overflo on top for stability.

I would not do the slit honestly. Get some black eggcrate ot something simular and use it. The slit I fear would become clogged with algea, etc only being that big. Again though it depends how much water you plan to run though there, etc.

Here is a pick of my overflow.

 

[Hampton]

Thanks a million for the reply. The support is a great idea. I will incorporate that. Where do you place the egg crate? Does it go over the top of the overflow box, but leave a gap along the overflow itself so the water flows freely?

I'm planning on only about 600 gph. This is a pure skimming operation. Flow will go through bulkheads in the back.

 

[Hampton]

And by the way, nice setup! I think I 'm going to mimic your "Picolo" for outflow.

 

[Hampton]

What kind of shutoff/disconnect valves do you use? Do you recommend them?