Do overflow boxes go bad?

[BrokenReefer]

Pretty simple question - just curious if overflow boxes have a lifespan on them. A small leak in one of the bulkheads makes me question life span on those items.

 

[randomfishdude]

No. Mine leaks if you leave it for 2 or 3 hours it will fill up about half way.

 

[BrokenReefer]

I got the tank and overflow used so there’s always a question of just exactly how old is this stuff, but I was noticing that the back of the box was bowed from the two overflow bulkheads.

I know that I’ll have to replace the one bulkhead soon, would it be prudent to also replace with a newer version of the overflow box?

 

[randomfishdude]

I got the tank and overflow used so there’s always a question of just exactly how old is this stuff, but I was noticing that the back of the box was bowed from the two overflow bulkheads.

I know that I’ll have to replace the one bulkhead soon, would it be prudent to also replace with a newer version of the overflow box?

I got my tank used it does a simalar thing. But you really wouldn't haft to replace anything as long as it's not completely bypassing everything.

 

[Dom]

I got the tank and overflow used so there’s always a question of just exactly how old is this stuff, but I was noticing that the back of the box was bowed from the two overflow bulkheads.

I know that I’ll have to replace the one bulkhead soon, would it be prudent to also replace with a newer version of the overflow box?

Bulkheads have a gasket. Over time, they can dry out and crack. I would replace the gasket on the bulkhead.

Also, when installing the gasket, put a small amount of petroleum jelly on your fingers and massage it in thoroughly to the new gasket. This will help make a better seal and prevent drying out/cracking.

 

[BrokenReefer]

I got my tank used it does a simalar thing. But you really wouldn't haft to replace anything as long as it's not completely bypassing everything.

That’s good to know, one less thing to worry about failing… or leaking on my floor giving my wife more arrows to throw.

 

[BrokenReefer]

Bulkheads have a gasket. Over time, they can dry out and crack. I would replace the gasket on the bulkhead.

Also, when installing the gasket, put a small amount of petroleum jelly on your fingers and massage it in thoroughly to the new gasket. This will help make a better seal and prevent drying out/cracking.

I put jelly on the seals for my pressure washer, didn’t think about doing that on the tank seals. That’s a good idea, thank you!

And I have to replace one because my extraordinary man strength stripped the threads… ‍

 

[Uncle99]

I got the tank and overflow used so there’s always a question of just exactly how old is this stuff, but I was noticing that the back of the box was bowed from the two overflow bulkheads.

I know that I’ll have to replace the one bulkhead soon, would it be prudent to also replace with a newer version of the overflow box?

Unless the box has been damaged, just the gaskets need change on both.

 

[Dom]

I put jelly on the seals for my pressure washer, didn’t think about doing that on the tank seals. That’s a good idea, thank you!

And I have to replace one because my extraordinary man strength stripped the threads… ‍

I find that it is best to tighten by hand best you can and then apply a small turn with channel locks.

 

[Dom]

Unless the box has been damaged, just the gaskets need change on both.

Good idea... be proactive and change them all.