skimmer woes

[bakerywench]

Hi

I need some help figuring out my skimmer.

This is my first saltwater tank I bought a msx 160 skimmer to go in my sump. It comes with no instructions just a diagram of how to put it together. I followed the diagram but I'm not getting any bubbles. I have no idea what I'm doing wrong. I'm starting to very frustrated

Is their anywhere I can get some step by step instruction for this type of skimmer?I would be grateful if anyone here has any tips on using this skimmer or just skimmers in general

Heidi

 

[reefergeorge]

First, Is it in saltwater? I know, but it has been done.
Do you have a pic of how you set it up?
Is the pump pumping water? Just no bubbles.

 

[bakerywench]

Its in freshwater no salt in there yet. I figured I would just test my equipment to make sure it worked before I added salt just in case.

It is pumping water no bubbles

 

[EllieSuz]

Skimmers don't bubble in fresh water. Pop that puppy in your sump and watch it go. Also, new skimmers take a while to "break in", so don't expect a lot of skimmate for the first several days.

 

[Aquarist007]

Re: skimmer woes

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13352696#post13352696 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by bakerywench
Hi

I need some help figuring out my skimmer.

This is my first saltwater tank I bought a msx 160 skimmer to go in my sump. It comes with no instructions just a diagram of how to put it together. I followed the diagram but I'm not getting any bubbles. I have no idea what I'm doing wrong. I'm starting to very frustrated

Is their anywhere I can get some step by step instruction for this type of skimmer?I would be grateful if anyone here has any tips on using this skimmer or just skimmers in general

Heidi

please join us on this thread--lots of help there

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1468271

 

[bakerywench]

Thanks Guys

Lots of good info on that thread I'm thinking the flimsy air tube may be causing some issues.

does anyone know how to open the pump so I can get to the mesh wheel it seems to be getting stuck and I need to take closer look.
Why don't they include proper instructions I paid enough for it.

Heidi

 

[Aquarist007]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13353396#post13353396 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by bakerywench
Thanks Guys

Lots of good info on that thread I'm thinking the flimsy air tube may be causing some issues.

does anyone know how to open the pump so I can get to the mesh wheel it seems to be getting stuck and I need to take closer look.
Why don't they include proper instructions I paid enough for it.

Heidi

Did pin wheels come with your unit?
Take the pump off, turn it upside down and the base will twist off.
You can pull the impeller out--which will bring out the mesh wheel and ceramic shaft
Be careful of the shaft--it is loose and if you drop it it will break.

Inspect the mesh mods--you can use the blog and the same pics are posted on the thread--you may have to trim them a little

http://www.reefcentral.com/wp/?p=354

The best support for this unit comes from us owners on the MSX support thread
If still confused repost on the thread

 

[Tswifty]

I think this is a basic layout of how the skimmer goes together:

 

[Tswifty]

A couple of minor things you may want to do:

1. New stronger airline tubing

2. Superglue the airline fitting into the pump, for a better air tight seal.

3. Open the pump, check the mesh job, trim it back or trim any stray pieces of mesh (if needed) to ensure the pump starts up IMMEDIATELY every time.

*Just be very careful opening the pump, and go slow*

 

[Tswifty]

Airline fitting pictured below...

You'll want to make sure not to push the fitting too far into the cavity when you superglue it into place.

 

[bakerywench]

Thanks Tswifty as always your a great source of information and I love how you always illustrate



Heidi

 

[Aquarist007]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13354818#post13354818 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Tswifty8
Airline fitting pictured below...

You'll want to make sure not to push the fitting too far into the cavity when you superglue it into place.

I believe the new msx comes with the air inlet already glued to the base