Need your help and suggestions...

[Prowler]

I have a 400gal. stock tank on it's way ( 77"Wx52"Lx24"H). I plan on turning it into a ray pond and should have the funds to do it by the end of the summer. For filtration I plan on ordering a NitraMax 2,000 (http://www.azponds.com/nitramax_filter.htm) . I'm a extreme noob when it comes to filters and pumps etc. so what exactly do I need as far as pumps go? Do I need a intake and a return pump? Is there a way I can utilize the 1" drain plug for the intake pump? For heating do you recommend in-line heaters? So I still need heaters,pumps,piping. Am I missing anything important? Thanks for any help. :)

[yourmylunch]

i'm not familiar with the nitramax 2000 but it should only require one pump

[guppy]

Single pump, using two is difficult as if they are not moving the same ammount of flow you end up running one dry or flooding the room. Inline heaters are okay but if I like using heaters in the mechanical filtration area, I make my own filters.
One way I have plumbed above ground filters is through the drain hole (screened) to a drum or box full of filterpads (heaters in there also), to biomedia, and them to pump for return.

[guppy]

With your nitramax you will need inline heaters (unless you add a prefilter) and a single pump

[Prowler]

Thanks for the advice. I was looking at 3 of these heaters (http://www.aquaticeco.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/product.detail/iid/9092/cid/2198) and this pump (http://www.marinedepot.com/md_viewItem.asp?idproduct=DN1131) . Think those will work? :headbang2

[Nic]

i would look into a lil giant pump or coralife you will need the presure

[Prowler]

The filters max GPH is 1440, so should I go with the 1800GPH or the 1200? Is it better to go under or over the max? :screwy: I've heard a lot of good things about Mag-Drives so I would prefer to go with them, but I'm always open for suggestions.