Plumbing Triple Tank Set-up

[Cap'n]

OK, the title of the thread is a bit deceiving, the third tank is the sump, so it would be even easier than you suggested StirCrazy. I am tempted to go this route, but I really don't want the extra external pump and all the added plumbing.

One thing I have to remind everyone with suggestions is that I am extremely, umm... cheap! and would like to do this with what I have on hand.

For example, I started up my high end graphics program to make the following diagram detailing my current plans. This may make it easier to pick apart, I mean, help me modify and troubleshoot.

.................................................. ..........
.........HOB..........................HOB......... ....
.......overflow <<<<<<<< skimmer.........
.....|...................|......|................. .|............
.....|..fish-only....|......|.....reef........|...........
.....|__________|.....|__________|...........
.............\/..................^..........................
.............\/..................^.........................
..........|..\/..........|>>>|...|...eheim............
..........|..sump.....|.....|....|..canister...... ....
..........|________|.....|__|....filter........... ..
.................................................. ...........

This is intended as a learning experience and will not be permanent. When we move into our own house the plan is to replace the 55gal fish-only with a 120. By that time I will probably be so sick of this ghetto setup that I will drill and plumb the whole thing properly. Until then, this is what I have to work with.