To run a closed loop or not?

[ca1ore]

The whole bottom fractured from the suction hole drilled right in the center ( IMO the worst place possible).

Ouch! The other thing to consider is: what if there is a problem with the bulkhead, how would one reseat that if it's at the bottom of the tank? Everyone is, of course, free to do these things as they choose. Just saying I would not :)