Sump Questions/Ideas

[KRUNNCH540]

So I have a couple of questions and need some advice from people who know what they are doing. The only reason I am asking is because I'm torn between Eheim Canisters or actually utilizing the MegaFlow overflow my tank came with and DIYing a sump.

1. On a 75 gallon freshwater tank (built in 600GPH megaflow), would a DIY 20g sump be sufficient?
- Would building a sump almost identical to the AGA megaflow sump work? Is it more cost effective for a newb as my self to just buy a pre-built sump?
2. On the return from the sump to the tank, would a Mag Drive 9.5 have enough power to:
- Pump water up 60" to the top of the tank?
- Then pump down 21" to the bottom of the tank?
- Where it pumps the undergravel jets spanning the bottom of the tank?
3. Is this a bad idea?
4. If you say it is a good idea and I decide to go ahead and do it, would you guys like pictures of the process?

Thanks,
Kris

 

[Nic]

I prefer a deeper tank so I would use a 29 gallon or a rubbermaid tote but it will be sufficient... also your pump is perfect for the return... as far as buying or building a sump it depends on you your financial state etc...

 

[Niisan9178]

Not too sure about the answers to many of those questions except one:
Yes to pictures.

 

[KRUNNCH540]

I don't unfortunately have pictures of the building process, but I have the completed project that I will be taking pictures of soon. Keep in mind I wasn't that clean with my silicone work, but none the less it is holding its own. Hopefully as I do more of these projects I will get more precise.

 

[Arthur]

this is the first sump I've ever built it's simple and cheap, you'd save a lot of money building a sump than buying canisters especially if you already have overflows. I still have to rinse some more lava rock for the bottom drawer though...........I'm lazy