Reef nutrition

Some suggestions with bulkhead nut

sfboarders

sfboarders

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So I have a 1" bulkhead that came with my 100 gallon truvu aquarium (used). The freaking nut on this thing is HUGE! I put my standpipe in through the top of the bulkhead and I hand tighten the nut on the bottom. I bust out my channel lock pliers and it's not even big enough to grab around the nut!. Keep in mind also that my stand has a hole by the bulkhead so I can't put anything big enough to really grasp a hold of the nut. So the question is should I buy bigger channel locks or would it be cheaper for me to get one of those bulkheads that use a nut that you can turn with a screwdriver? Is there another tool better for the job?
 
I've used a (clean) pipe wrench with a towel around the nut to successfully tighten mine. Also, maybe the strap tool for removing oil filters also works in a pinch.

I should have both, and am in the Outer Sunset if you want to borrow either one to try to see if it will squeeze between the stand and the tank. Then again, do you really need an excuse to avoid going to the store and buying a new gizmo?
 
sfboarders said:
Hey Jeremy, you mean something like this? Is this something I can buy at HD or Lowes?
Click to expand...


Similar yes, the one I have is double sided and can be used for 1" or 3/4" BH. I'll be in your area tomorrow around lunchtime if you're around.
 
And...........how tight should that bulkhead nut be tightened? Should any teflon tape be used on the threaded portion? My enquiring mind needs to know..... H)
 
tuberider said:
sfboarders said:
Hey Jeremy, you mean something like this? Is this something I can buy at HD or Lowes?
Click to expand...


Similar yes, the one I have is double sided and can be used for 1" or 3/4" BH. I'll be in your area tomorrow around lunchtime if you're around.
Click to expand...

Hey Jeremy, you'll be around SSF or SM area? I work in Foster City/SM. LMK.
 
I didn't think you needed to tighten bulkheads all that much. I think one of the things you look for is if it's over tightened the gasket will be displaced, like pinched out and not flush around the bulkhead.
 
I go 1/4 crank beyond hand tight, I realize hand tight is relative, my hand tight is pretty tight from playing upright bass...


John I'll be in Millbrae around lunchtime, then I'll be in Belmont, I can loan the wrench to you, but I'd need it back relatively soon since I use it quite a bit. I could get it from you on Friday since my work schedule is light that day and I'll be on the coast in HMB, no real traveling to speak of. :)
 
screebo said:
And...........how tight should that bulkhead nut be tightened? Should any teflon tape be used on the threaded portion? My enquiring mind needs to know..... H)
Click to expand...

no teflon needed
the "SEAL" is between the flat part parallel to the "HEAD" surface, and "Gasket" itself, pressing against the inside of the tank.
(Pressure is caused when you tighten the nut.)

to tight and the gasket will crease, or "walk" out causing a seep.
Too loose, and the water will slip past the "Sealed" area

if the water can get to the threads on a bulkhead, its gonna seep through no matter how much teflon you use.
Well unless you put the threads on the water side (Which ive seen done but would not recommend)

sample pic below.. of the only usefull image i could find in google...
although the gasket on the inside of the tank between the box and glass is not needed when you are not using the "Box" inside

assembly2small.jpg
 
tuberider said:
I go 1/4 crank beyond hand tight, I realize hand tight is relative, my hand tight is pretty tight from playing upright bass...


John I'll be in Millbrae around lunchtime, then I'll be in Belmont, I can loan the wrench to you, but I'd need it back relatively soon since I use it quite a bit. I could get it from you on Friday since my work schedule is light that day and I'll be on the coast in HMB, no real traveling to speak of. :)
Click to expand...

Ack, I wanted to dry run my system first in the garage and re-assemble everything in the house this weekend so I would need it for a couple of days. Might be better off if I get one of those. Are they relatively cheap? Anywhere in the peninsula I can pick up one of those?


Update: I went to HD and found something that will work.

imagerequest.aspx
 
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