Internal Overflow Box Qs

[princer7]

I am looking at drilling my 200 gallon aquarium and would like to have internal overflow boxes for the intakes and use Loc Line coming out of them for the returns. I have seen the 2 sided ones on the web that fit in the corners but really don't want to see what is in them so would really like 3 sided boxes. Is there a place on the web or in Austin (maybe even San Antonio) that would have these at a decent price? Also, how hard would it be to make? Any local suppliers for black acrylic?

[dwdenny]

I would talk to Pete he can build just about anything I have heard. I am sure he can do this easy. Or if you would like to DIY then try regal plastics for one place or just look in the yellow pages under plastics and start calling.

[brewercm]

Another option is to use a black coating on the outside where the boxes are. My tank was like that when I got it, it was basically like a piece of window tint put in that area but completely black and it's what is no the back of my tank. It looked really nice and professional and you couldn't tell what was on it from a couple of feet away.

I did end up taking it off though, some of the coolest things end up inside of those overflow. It's like having a little fuge just sitting in the back corners with all the little critters in there. Another plus to seeing in is you can see right away if a snail has gotten into your drain tube, or the small air hole on top of your dursos (if using them) get salt creep clogged, or any reason your drain might be clogged.

Oh yeah, to have one built check with Pete or Dan, either one can make you one fairly easily.

[princer7]

Hmmm. Haven't thought of the critters. Nightmare senario would be a dead fish. Would like to see it before trying to pull it out by hand :wacko

[GaryP]

Another option would be to put in a Calfo overflow. Basically one continuous overflow that runs along the top back part of the tank.

[pilot_bell777]

I'm in Austin and can build you one if you like.....

[brewercm]

Calfos are nice in that they don't take up as much floor space of your aquarium, just the upper back.

[GaryP]

I agree Cliff, but more importantly they skim more efficeintly then a vertical overflow box. The theory is that you get a more concentrated waste then with a traditional vertical overflow box. I've never run one, but I can certainly see the logic in it. My new tank will have a calfo.

[princer7]

Is there a link to see what a Calfo overflow looks like? I have never seen one. Thanks for the offer pilot_bell777, I may be needing to take you up on that offer. :)

[GaryP]

I tried finding one online but couldn't. A couple of our members have them. I couldn't find a good pic of on in their galleries either. Check with either ::pete:: or Dan. They both have them and also make them. They can probably send you a pic.

[brewercm]

I sent you a PM with a link to Pete's tank and modified (with teeth) Calfo.