Chipped Flange on Return Assembly

[QuitterJr]

I was finally ready to start the cycle on my Waterbox INFINIA Reef 190.5, and I dropped and chipped a flange on the tank-side return assembly. It was the last piece to put in. :(

Any thoughts on whether it is still usable from the photos? I have no concern about the return stream, but I am worried about water seeping in and going through the drilled hole in the display where it connects with the sump-side assembly. The o-ring, for example, may expand unevenly and have issues with a portion of the flange missing.

The inner diameter may still offer enough protection from water coming in through the overflow.

I really appreciate all input as always. Thank you!

 

[UncommonSense]

Unfortunately, damage in this specific place on this specific part (Flowcolour brand euro/slim style bulkhead fitting) renders the part incapable of sealing against water…

Simply put, that silicone o-ring must be equally compressed around its full circumference… the o-ring will want to extrude from that chipped section as you tighten the bulkhead, and won’t reliably seal against water seeping past…

— I’m sorry to say that you’ll need to reach out to Waterbox regarding replacement before you get this plumbing wet…


Edit: I say reach out to the manufacturer vs. just ordering another one online because I just spent hours looking for a reliable retailer of these exact bulkheads a few days ago… they all come straight from China!

If you still have the chipped-off plastic piece, you MIGHT be able to cement it back on and still get a water seal, assuming you’re careful to keep the seaming flange flat… this would at least let you start cycling while you wait for new part(s) to ship!

 

[QuitterJr]

Thank you so much. This is exactly what I was worried about. I am glad that I know I cannot rush it. Unfortunately, I am dreading the shipping time.

I may fill 70 percent of the tank and then the sump separately with a powerhead and no cup skimmer to aerate and start the cycle while I wait.