External overflow Best Buy?

galantra · Jun 4, 2020

So just got a hold on a used CTC tank 150 gallon 6x2x2. Currently tank isn’t drilled so was thinking on adding a external overflow
But wanted to know what style or brand would be worth giving a try?
Currently been doing research on:
Esshop Large overflow box- seems to less for what I want
Fiji cube 1600 gal box- awesome idea on removing the internal box
Exotic marine 20inch kit- height of outer box seems like a good concern for me.

So wanted to hear what opinions or ideas

Lmk

Coolcasino · Jun 4, 2020

I have a Modular Marine. Kinda the same as Exotic Marine. Works well and is quite. Looks good. My only worry was drilling the tank and that went without a hitch!

mfinn · Jun 4, 2020

I used the large Esshops diy drill kit on 2 tanks. Was fairly easy. Heard a few people had issues with the bulkheads and gaskets on them, but I didn't.
One issue I had was the pattern they give you placed the overflow about a 1/2" too low, so the water line was visible on a rimmed tank I used it on. You need to measure before you drill.

CK00020 · Jun 4, 2020

+1 on the mod marine, if you don’t like the standard options they will make whatever you want

galantra · Jun 4, 2020

Oh, didn’t see that one looks interesting.

Now, does the length of the skimmer box matter?

Water Dog · Jun 4, 2020

For a 6 foot long tank, I’d go for the largest internal skim box possible to maximize your surface skimming ability. Modular Marine makes a 30” & 36” internal weir overflow box and Exotic. Marine Systems makes a 32” internal weir overflow box. Though I’m partial to Modular Marine because I own one, I think they and EMS would be the best choice for your particular tank size.

galantra · Jun 5, 2020

Water Dog said:
For a 6 foot long tank, I’d go for the largest internal skim box possible to maximize your surface skimming ability. Modular Marine makes a 30” & 36” internal weir overflow box and Exotic. Marine Systems makes a 32” internal weir overflow box. Though I’m partial to Modular Marine because I own one, I think they and EMS would be the best choice for your particular tank size.

I’m Confused, why would you say EMS if modular makes 36” ? Is there system better?

Water Dog · Jun 5, 2020

galantra said:
I’m Confused, why would you say EMS if modular makes 36” ? Is there system better?

I just wanted to give you options and mention what I consider to be the best ghost style overflow manufacturers who offer boxes in the 30+ inch range, which I think is more appropriate for your tank length. Both manufacturers are the only ones to design their overflow set ups with the internal skim box and external drain box at the same height, thereby eliminating the waterfall noise common with offset height overflow box designs, allowing you tune your system to run quietly at higher flow rates.

Just trying to help you make an informed decision and I generally consider choices to be a good thing!

galantra · Jun 5, 2020

No I appreciate the information and that takes in account for many things I would want to do. Truly trying to get the best bang for my buck and less issues down the line

ca1ore · Jun 5, 2020

galantra said:
So just got a hold on a used CTC tank 150 gallon 6x2x2. Currently tank isn’t drilled so was thinking on adding a external overflow'

Coast-to-Coast make awesome tanks … I was close to going with them for my 450 before veering off into acrylic world. It is too bad yours doesn't include their overflow ….. it's really cool because there is no skim box profile inside the tank …. they waterjet cut the overflow …. more than the casual hobbysist can do. Agree with MM or EMS. Anything above 30" should suffice for a 72" tank. I'm using the MM 36" on my 96" tank and it works well.