FX5 one last try

[s2convt]

I purchased my fx5 brand new from ebay and have had it for only 3 weeks and have been extremely dissappointed in my purchase decision. I have read t every article on mfk on how to get rid of the microbubbles to no avail.

Here is what i have done.

1. Tighten the inflow and out flow lines both coming from the canister and to the tank.

2. Used plumbing tape around the gaskets to ensure no leaks.

3. Checked to see that there are no obstructions in the propeller

4. Removed all media from center baskets

5. Removed all media from side baskets.

I did each of the above steps one at a time each time starting the fx5 again, wait three days and still microbubbles.

I need to know if i am missing something before i give up on this filter and sell it.

 

[haynchinook334]

Are you using polishing pad?

If you decide to sell it, PM me.

 

[rhodes_96]

So whats inside the fx5 baskets ?

 

[s2convt]

Right now i have NOTHING in the canister running for three days and still microbubbles. No media, pads or anything, just an empty canister filled with water.

 

[ratrodmike]

Might be a dumb question, but is there an airstone anywhere near the intake? The current might be pushing a few bubbles to the intake.

 

[haynchinook334]

Check your hoses for cuts,cracks, and so on. could have a small cut in the intake hose.

 

[CLDarnell]

2. Used plumbing tape around the gaskets to ensure no leaks.

I feel your pain! I don't have a FX5 or haven't even seen one outside the box. But, I have to assume it's at least basically similar to any other canister in general.

What do you mean by using plumbing tape around the gaskets? Did you literally wrap the gaskets in plumbing tape? If so, I don't think that's a good idea.

I had similar trouble with my Rena XP4 that you're having with the Fluval. I used some Petroleum Jelly (Vaseline) around the gasket and gasket surfaces. It IMMEDIATELY started working

Also, I remember reading where someone else had similar trouble with a FX5. They had been over tightening the clamp knobs and warped the lid.

I hate offering advice on something I know nothing about, but maybe remove the tape, smear on a light coating of Vaseline and lightly tighten the clamp knobs...and give it one more try.

Good luck to you!

 

[s2convt]

Might be a dumb question, but is there an airstone anywhere near the intake? The current might be pushing a few bubbles to the intake.

No air stones, im using the outflow to stir the surface for aeration.

 

[s2convt]

Check your hoses for cuts,cracks, and so on. could have a small cut in the intake hose.

I was thinking the same thing, checked the entire inflow hose and no leaks or cuts that i can see, samething with the outflow. No cracks in the canister either.

 

[s2convt]

I will try vasiline....

I feel your pain! I don't have a FX5 or haven't even seen one outside the box. But, I have to assume it's at least basically similar to any other canister in general.

What do you mean by using plumbing tape around the gaskets? Did you literally wrap the gaskets in plumbing tape? If so, I don't think that's a good idea.

I had similar trouble with my Rena XP4 that you're having with the Fluval. I used some Petroleum Jelly (Vaseline) around the gasket and gasket surfaces. It IMMEDIATELY started working

Also, I remember reading where someone else had similar trouble with a FX5. They had been over tightening the clamp knobs and warped the lid.

I hate offering advice on something I know nothing about, but maybe remove the tape, smear on a light coating of Vaseline and lightly tighten the clamp knobs...and give it one more try.

Good luck to you!