DIY UGJ system help

[rickyricardo]

Okay, I have finally received all the items needed to build my UGJ. I have two quesions though:

First and most importantly, how do I attached the pumps (rio 2100) to the tank for support? The suction cup bracket only works with the pump in the wrong position. Are you guys relying on the pvc pipe system to hold up the pump?

Lastly, I am securing everything (plants, pvc) to a sheet of eggcrate. Is there a need to secure the eggcrate to the bottom of the tank?

Thanks in advance for any help offered.

rick

 

[rickyricardo]

anybody?????????

 

[rickyricardo]

Well I finally figured out things. I'm going to post some pictures of my set up even though there are already several UGJ threads going. I figure it cant hurt.

First pic just shows how I cleaned my substrate (3M Colorquartz). It was relatively easy with this type of container as opposed to a 5 gal pail. With this I was easily able to clean 50 lbs at a time. I just used the extension I have on my garden hose to stir it up while simultaneously spraying water. (did clog up my hose extension though )

The second pic is just a shot of my tank (110 high) with the eggcrate I will use as a base.

 

[rickyricardo]

The next two shots are aerial views of the two UGJ's I will use in my tank. One for each half of the tank, each with 4 jets. You can see how I will be aiming my jets at the tanks sides in hopes that this will create a ricochet effect and hit the spots I want. If anyone has tried this and not had good results please chime in, hopefully before I get it all hooked up.

I have 2 Rio 2100's that I will be using. Plan is to paint (Krylon plastic rattlecan) everything black. Which by the way is the color of my substrate.

 

[frasertheking]

looks good i can not offer any advice on the pump but as for having it secured if it has a fair bit of gravel over it you should be fine as is.

 

[rickyricardo]

I also want to post a pic of a tool that has made making this a piece of cake. It is relatively inexpensive ($11.00) and will soon become your best friend when cutting pvc, or thick tubing. Makes very nice and clean cuts. I highly recommend one of these.

 

[rickyricardo]

Guess I should add a little disclaimer here, I have no idea how this system will work. It is my first attempt and until it is up and running consider it untested. With that said.................wish me luck!

 

[Dr Joe]

Good Luck!!



Dr Joe

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[Danger_Chicken]

Looks good keep the pic's coming. I've read about other's bouncing the water off the sides to get better coverage.