Skimmer Impeller Mod

[Der_Iron_Chef]

Has anyone modified the impeller, like the ones below, on their skimmer (in my case, the CSS) to produce finer bubbles and better skimmate? If so, what exactly did you use and how were your results?

I'm wondering: a) if the mesh material degrades/breaks apart over time; b) if it does, in fact, make a significant difference; c) if the mesh interferes with pump operation; d) if the increase in microbubbles is too much for the skimmer to handle, etc.

Any input would be great!

[mark]

On reefs.org http://www.reefs.org/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=95783

then the typical 50 page thread on RC http://reefcentral.com/forums/showth...5&pagenumber=6

[Der_Iron_Chef]

Thanks Mark! I saw the thread on RC, but was frustrated by the sheer enormity of it. I also wasn't able to find anyone who performed this mod on the CSS.

The reefs.org link was much more helpful/concise.

[Salinity Now]

Chef, I've got a CSS as well and I'm also curious to find out how they ended up moding them. I'm with you man, some of the threads on RC are just tooooooo looooooooong. The CSS impeller has radial pieces of plastic rotating around it, there's got to be a way we can attach some gutter guard (or something else) to make a similiar mod to it. Without having to destroy the original impeller that is.

Terry

[Der_Iron_Chef]

Yeah--I need to disassemble my skimmer and take a gander. I think with some gutter guard and a few zip ties, we could be in action! If you decide to get brave and try something out, let me know....and the same goes for me

I'm just worried about somehow ruining the impeller and then being rogered up the codger.

[StirCrazy]

thanks for posting this, it just gave me a hell if an idea for a different pump. One question, with the pins gone and the mesh installed does it still move water?

Steve

[AndyL]

Will still move water... With the CSS needlewheel pumps - you'd remove the top part of the impeller blades *see pic for reference* then ziptie/fishing line to the lower. Should be a reasonable amount of room for mesh - looking at the housing vs the impeller.

[AndyL]

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/sh...5&pagenumber=2

[Salinity Now]

Cool thread Andy, thanks for the link. I tried searching for something in the RC-DIY thread a few days ago, but couldn't find anything. I'll definitely be trying the fishing line idea here, when I have some free time.

[Der_Iron_Chef]

As will I. Giddy-up!