SCA 50 build questions (plumbing)

[ReefSapper]

Hello all,

I am in the process of setting up my new SCA 50 Gallon PNP system and had a quick question in regards to plumbing the overflow that i could not find the answer too. I know that i do not need to glue the 2 drain lines (herbie style drain) but should i glue the return pipe into place coming out of the top of the bulkhead?

Also the pump that came with this setup came with a smaller fitting exiting the pump, looks to have a 3/4" barb fitting leaving the pump but has a 1 " PVC return line in the overflow box is this normal? I will just have to run 3/4" flex tubing then use a 3/4" barb to 1" PVC fitting (assuming they make those) but i want to make sure im not missing something before i do that.

While im at it I might as well ask 1 more question , when plumbing my main drain line into the filter sock area of my sump should the outlet be completely submerged or should water fall from the piping into the filter sock? Thanks in advance for any help and i look forward to poking around on this forum.

 

[60CubeReefer]

No, don't glue any of the pipes inside of the overflow box. Friction fit is fine.

I'd suggest you stay with 1" flex tubing, and just use a reducing bushing from the pump to your plumbing. What kind of return pump are you using?

The main drain should be fully submerged, unless you want to hear gurgling/splashing from the return.

 

[ReefSapper]

The return pump is one that came with the PNP system, it is an Atmen 2500. The threads on the discharge end of the pump look to be 1/2" to me and the barb fitting seems to accept 3/4" tubing...i just dont understand why the discharge is so small on the pump when the system is clearly designed and drilled as a 1" system. I am trying to get this thing wet in the next 2 days but i want to make sure its right the first time, thanks for your help 60CubeReefer.

 

[Why-Me]

Any updates on this build? I have the same system sitting in my garage, finally grabbing the remaining pieces to set it up.
Any other thoughts, experiences, advice or things you'd have done differently please share.