First Time Drilling - 65G Build

[ACW33]

Drilled two 1 1/2” holes for my overflow (Synergy Reef Shadow). Now just need to drill for my return lines. Synergy recommends two 3/4 return lines…am debating 1” returns though. Not sure.

The nerves were through the roof! Glad my husband was there to help guide me. From my angle it was hard to see if the bit was “even” all the way around, but I could feel the drill want to pull a certain direction.

Edited:
I attempted to attach the video, but it didn’t work . Here’s a link:

 

[fishface NJ]

It is scary drilling holes. Been through that.

I can’t view your video. You would need to load to YouTube and then attach it to here

 

[rhitee93]

Congrats! I drilled my first aquarium a couple of weeks ago. It was also a 65. Feels good to have done it though, doesn't it?

 

[ACW33]

It is scary drilling holes. Been through that.

I can’t view your video. You would need to load to YouTube and then attach it to here

Thank you! I uploaded it to YouTube just now because it wasn’t working. Here you go:

 

[ACW33]

Congrats! I drilled my first aquarium a couple of weeks ago. It was also a 65. Feels good to have done it though, doesn't it?

It does! It feels dang good

 

[Vivid Creative Aquatics]

Drilled two 1 1/2” holes for my overflow (Synergy Reef Shadow). Now just need to drill for my return lines. Synergy recommends two 3/4 return lines…am debating 1” returns though. Not sure....

Congratulations- the first time is always nerve racking.

Regarding the return lines, I would drilling holes for 3/4in bulkheads, given the size of the tank (they will take less room than 1in bulkheads).

Then run 1in pipe on your return lines to the 3/4 bulkheads, reducing it down right at the bulkhead. This will help maximize the flow to the outlets.

For the bulkheads themselves, do slip-fit bulkheads and use our Multidapter fittings to add flush-mounted loc-line compatible connectors. We have them for 3/4in to 3/4in loc-line and 3/4in to 1/2in reduces.

Adapters | Vivid Creative Aquatics

vividcreativeaquatics.com

Then you can run either 3/4in or 1/2in Random Flow Generator Nozzles to flow the tank

 

[ACW33]

Congratulations- the first time is always nerve racking.

Regarding the return lines, I would drilling holes for 3/4in bulkheads, given the size of the tank (they will take less room than 1in bulkheads).

Then run 1in pipe on your return lines to the 3/4 bulkheads, reducing it down right at the bulkhead. This will help maximize the flow to the outlets.

For the bulkheads themselves, do slip-fit bulkheads and use our Multidapter fittings to add flush-mounted loc-line compatible connectors. We have them for 3/4in to 3/4in loc-line and 3/4in to 1/2in reduces.

Adapters | Vivid Creative Aquatics

vividcreativeaquatics.com

Then you can run either 3/4in or 1/2in Random Flow Generator Nozzles to flow the tank

Thank you! Taking notes and researching that info now

 

[Dom]

With the correct tools and the right glass, drilling a hole isn't overly difficult. Most mishaps happen when people rush.

The glass will break when the drill gets hung up in the glass during the cut. This is why a bare-handed drill-in-hand approach should be left to the very experienced.

I like to use a portable drill press. It locks everything in place, so you can avoid getting hung up in the glass during the cut.

I'd bet that with the correct tools, you could even cut a hole through a piece of tempered glass if you go slowly enough.

 

[Fungusamongus]

Congratulations. Super nerve wracking. Glad you made it through. I had a tough time solo, but it all worked out in the end. A portable drill press would have been amazing.