Silicon Bulkheads?

[Foooz]

The 180 I just acquired had the bulkheads siliconed to the tank. I am in process of removing the old silicon. Holes in tank look clean with no chips or anything else that might impact the sealing area. Some of the bulkheads had gaskets some did not. My question is should I silicon the new bulkheads when I install them? I thought using the supplied gasket was sufficient for water tight seal? Also where is good place to order bulkheads from? Local box hardware store does not carry.

 

[twon8]

Gasket should suffice. Just make sure they are clean. Lfs should have bulkheads

 

[CuzzA]

Do not use silicone on bulkheads. The gasket is all you need. Hand tighten and then 1/4 turn with wrench. They can be bought at most LFS or online pond and aquarium suppliers.

 

[Foooz]

Thanks. The holes are 1.5" and 1.75, what size bulkheads are these?

 

[ca1ore]

You certainly CAN silicone bulkheads (I've done it many times over the years) but it really shouldn't be necessary in most applications. Siliconing them means waiting a week for curing and difficulty in later removal. If I were installing a bulkhead that would be most inconvenient if it developed a leak I silicone, otherwise not.

 

[CuzzA]

Thanks. The holes are 1.5" and 1.75, what size bulkheads are these?

3/4" and 1"

 

[Foooz]

Thanks LFS did have them. What a task cleaning off the old silicone but it is done. Next weekend is the big transfer.