My first drilled tank-advice needed

[balton777]

I bought a 253 gallon tank measuring 84"x24"x30" with dual overflows. I've never used a wet/dry filter before and am not in a position to make a diy. I'm considering the Pro Clear Aquatics Model 400 wet dry. It's 56" L x 20" W x 18" H and rated for 400 gallon tanks. It states the max flow rate is 1200 gph. Here's my question. If I use my existing AquaClear 110 powerhead rated at I think 960 gph to power it + my Fluval FX5 for additional filtering, would it be enough filtration for a big cichlid tank?

Here's a link to it:
http://www.petsolutions.com/MODEL-400-WPREFILTER+I85071275.aspx

Oh and if anyone can reccommend a better filter for the money please chime in, I'm all ears.

 

[LiquidWare]

If you intend to use the AquaClear to pump the water back up into your tank from your Wet/Dry, it will not work. What you need is more something like a Mag-Drive 12 or 18 depending on the total height that the water need to be pumped up.
As far as filtration goes, using a FX5 + the Wet/Dry, you'll have more than enough filtration.
If you want, check out my Gallery for my Wet/Dry setup to give you an idea.