New 34g 20" cube build external overflow

[nerdz]

Hello

I painted the back side of my previous tank blue with tremclad paint.

With this new tank I cannot do this because of the external overflow, (You would see all plumbing).

What can I do?

Paint inside?

Or, maybe a better option, install acrylic in the tank on the waterside. Any tips? Where to buy in GVRD? 1/8" or 1/4" to help from bowing? Black or Blue?

Maybe mention another option I haven't even thought about!


I really have no experience and any advice would be great.

[nerdz]

Adding sump to Solana stand:

The stand seems too wimpy to support a sump, so I made a platform that extends though the shelf to the floor

Stock stand:

Stand for 20G tall sump:





And because my skimmer is so tall, I shortened drawer to allow skimmer cup to fit. The front half of drawer is still functional for food and small items

[Arok3000]

Good idea on the stand drawer.

Did you get some acrylic yet? Good news about doing g acrylic in tank is that you can integrate teeth into it for your overflow.

[nerdz]

Originally Posted by Arok3000

Good idea on the stand drawer.

Did you get some acrylic yet? Good news about doing g acrylic in tank is that you can integrate teeth into it for your overflow.

Hi

Yes, picked up a black 1/8" on from Fiber-Tek on gregzz4's recommendation.

Nice to have option of teeth, but I plan to leave it toothless for a smooth weir.

[nerdz]

I picked up some acrylic and drilled a hole to line up with outer diameter of return bulkhead and cut the overflow notch.

Used a holesaw to cut radius corners, then a plastic knife to score between then and snapped it:

[nerdz]

I looked for a small 90 degree fitting for airline tubing. THe The Codfather suggested irrigation fittings.

I didn't want a bulky John Guest fitting for my secondary bean animal drain, (the 1 that becomes full-syphon in an emergancy)

Here is what I did, (I also didn't mount it on top like others- I went on side) Basically any excuse to use JB-Weld!!!!:

[nerdz]

My hole actually lined up for return bulkhead, ha ha!

Background sitting in place:


Not sure if I will glue it in place directly to back pane, or glue a few small pieces of glass against it so it can be slid in and out for cleaning...