Installing Bulkhead Tips

[TaylorPilot]

I think custom-cut EPDM gaskets might be an idea indeed.

I need to look into it. I use to have some water jetted back in the day, but they were too expensive. I haven't seen anyone cutting it with an endmill in a CNC. Maybe I can use a drag knife, but need a good way to hold them down that isn't crazy expensive.

 

[ReeferT]

I am removing one overflow from a 140 reef tank and was planning to use two bulkheads to plug bottom holes. After reading some of the comments in this thread, I am afraid this may not be a good option and leak over time. Anyone have any thoughts on the best most leak proof approach?

 

[SteveMM62Reef]

I use two gaskets, one on the water side, and one on the outside. The one on the outside is usually an old gasket, but I have bought new for this. My reason is, it puts tension on the nut, and it is less likely to come loose. I started doing this Cooling Tower Chemical Feeds, leaks went to zero.

 

[redfishbluefish]

I haven't read the ten pages, but inside, outside doesn't matter. What matters as far as the gasket is concerned is that it ALWAYS goes on the flange side regardless if it's inside or outside the tank.

 

[dmsc2fs]

I always make it a practice and this should work. Place AQUARIUM silicone on both sides and let it dry at LEAST 4 hours (or more and worth the wait). The silicone will act as a new gasket and seal it nicely and easy to scape off if removal is ever necessary

When you use silicone, are you saying you put it on both sides of the gasket? Both sides of the glass?

 

[vetteguy53081]

When you use silicone, are you saying you put it on both sides of the gasket? Both sides of the glass?

Honestly (and I know its not a Best practice - BRS is the one who suggested it), I placed a light film of aquarium sealant on the bulkhead body and both sides of gasket and could have cried when there was NOT ONE drop of water.
I allowed it to dry overnight.

 

[Bakedpwn]

anyone have pictures of their return bulkheads that are threaded and how you piped it down to return pump?

ive got two 1/2" bulkheads on the skinny side of a 60gallon. Im going to buy threaded tho, should i get threaded on the inside of the tank too? I got two 1/2" RFG FLEX SERIES NOZZLES

 

[vetteguy53081]

anyone have pictures of their return bulkheads that are threaded and how you piped it down to return pump?

ive got two 1/2" bulkheads on the skinny side of a 60gallon. Im going to buy threaded tho, should i get threaded on the inside of the tank too? I got two 1/2" RFG FLEX SERIES NOZZLES

 

[vetteguy53081]

anyone have pictures of their return bulkheads that are threaded and how you piped it down to return pump?

ive got two 1/2" bulkheads on the skinny side of a 60gallon. Im going to buy threaded tho, should i get threaded on the inside of the tank too? I got two 1/2" RFG FLEX SERIES NOZZLES

Mine threaded on top and direct fit/glued below

 

[WhatCouldGoWrong71]

I’m going to be installing about 10 Hayward bulkheads with EPDM gaskets. I read the first 6 pages and didn’t see any reference to EPDM rubber. Is there a specific install process for these? I thought the first page of this thread was pretty straight forward, but then there was a lot of debate about greasing the gasket. Also, the product recommended to put on the plastic threads (not the threads for the nut to go on the flange) is from 13 years ago and the link doesn’t work. What should I use?

 

[braaap]

This thread makes me wonder if OP is ok. He was extremely helpful with things like RO/DI and plumbing. Miss seeing his name.

 

[BZOFIQ]

Side note - you can take acetone on a small rag and wipe these ugly prints right off.

Not personal Vette, just use your picture as example :)

 

[SteveMM62Reef]

The threads on the outside of the fitting aren’t tapered, so they can’t be used for plumbing connections. The threads on the inside are tapered, for plumbing.