Drilling Tank - Hole Location Help Needed

M

M@

I picked up an Oceanic 33G cube and I've decided to take the plunge and drill the tank. After much research I've decided to go with a "Herbie" Style drain.

What I can't find is the best place to drill the holes. How does this setup sound?

10" Box, Holes 2" from the top with drains 8" apart.

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I would buy or build your over flow box and bulkheads first,
Then determine where you want your water level allowing for at least a 1/2" over the top or slot bottoms plus another inch for wave and splash
Then tape the over flow box in place considering the water level concerns
Place the bulkheads in the corners like you show allowing for at least 1/4" clearance - that' determines your outside and lower limits,
Adjust from there, mark and drill

If you buy a pre made over flow box they will probably show you where to drill
 
That makes sense. I'm thinking about just making the overflow out of glass for ease of installation. My bulkheads are 1" and I should have them tomorrow.
 
My bulkheads are 1" and I should have them tomorrow. said:
The hole size is 1.75". The 2" distance in you post is fine. However, I would agree with the other post and say you make or buy the overflow first to determine your hole location.
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Great, thanks for the advice. I will build the overflow first.

I now feel confident I will get the placement correct. Thanks for the help!
 
Alright, I built an overflow box which will help me with my hole placement.

Now I have one more question on the Herbie. To make it a true herbie one of the returns needs to be out of the water as an "emergency pipe." With the placement of my holes just an upturned 90 deg elbow will not be out of the water. Should I run a piece of PVC on top of the 90 to get it above the water for a true emergency drain or just run two gated overflows?
 
Do not run two gated overflows. Just add a section of pvc so that it is above the water line. My herbie pipes have 1/8th of an inch difference in height - thats all thats needed in my setup for one pipe to be the drain, and my emergency pipe to be ready to go. (I also have strainers on top of my pipes, as another plug preventing measure) You may need 1/4" or more or less to have the pipe out of the water.

If you go two gated, you will no longer have a herbie, and could have a big mess if something happens and they both get plugged.

I <3 my Herbie!
 
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