Calfo style overflow?

[robertpower3]

I can't answer any of your questions but i have seem tempered glass drilled. One of the guys I worked with had his eighty drilled that was tempered. it took a while but it worked.

[captexas]

I wouldn't drill any glass that might be tempered. I bet the tank he has was tempered on the bottom only as well. Even if by some chance you were able to drill it, I would be afraid of it cracking later one.

As far as supporting the overflow while the silicone is setting, you could just cut some 2x4s to length for it to sit on. Or, depending on how big it is, you could take 1x6s and notch out the corners big enough for the overflow to sit in so both sides will be supported. That would probably work better. I would drill the holes in the back first and then try the overflow. And then make sure you have enough room for overflow to fit around those big bulkheads.

[::pete::]

Josh

As for the silicone to attach glass to glass there is a marine "goop" that is made to repair all different things. You can find it near the super glue in HD or Lowes.

[captexas]

Home Depot also carries an Aquarium Silicone that comes in a small tube in the same section as the superglue and epoxy. Not sure how strong it is, but I'm sure if you silicone both sides of all edges it will be fine.

[witecap4u]

Josh,

As far as holding it when it drys, just set the tank on its back and then all you will need is something to prop the front of the overflow up(dowell, 2x4, paper cup....)

I think you would also want to add a couple supports to the center of the box inside to keep if from bowing, that will also give you more weight support, just rem to allow room for waterflow....

cs

[Ed]

I have a few questions though.

1) Will silicone be strong enough to keep this thing hanging up there? (glass/glass)

2) What's the best way to brace it while the silicone is curing?

3) Anybody else done it?

Josh,

Answered your PM, but thought I would post some answers here for the group's benefit.

1) Yes, silicone is strong enough. I used All-Glass Aquarium Silicone item no. 65011 (black - but clear is also available). IMO glass to glass w/silicone is stronger than plexi to glass. I believe Bill (Utmachete) can confirm this.

2)I cut 1 1/2" PVC pipe and placed it under the shelf. Siliconed the horizontal piece and clamped it. Let it 'cure' for 48 hrs, then siliconed and clamped the other piece of glass forming a 'T'. 48 hrs later removed clamps and PVC support and added water.

3) Yes, my 135 show has a 6' wide Calfo style overflow shelf with two 1" bulkheads for drains.

The Marine goop I have seen at HD and Lowe's said specifically NOT for aquarium use. Be sure you check the label.

I have no bracing/support on my 6' shelf. Remember that it is surrounded by water and the 'box' fills part of the way as it heads for the drains.


Hope this helps explain it a little. If anyone wants to see it in action, just let me know.

-Ed

[Ed]

Josh,

I used 'Quick Grip' clamps. Any clamp that is large enough will work, just use a rag between a metal clamp and the glass and be careful when you tighten it. For the flat shelf, you can also use pieces of wood wedged between the front of the aquarium and the shelf's edge. Just be sure the wood is at an angle or you might not get it out.

-Ed