Drilling a acrylic tank for sump.

[tapkawiman]

Would like to know how far from the joints of my tank do I need to stay back from and would someone consider drilling the two holes with just lowering the water level?


Thanks

[tapkawiman]

If this is not the proper place for this post or if someone can suggest somewhere else that maybe could answer my questions that would be greatly appreciated.

[ibefishy]

I drilled my acrylic tank and it was really easy. You just need to take it slow and let the hole saw do the work. I personally would drain the entire tank that way you can lay it down flat and have an easier surface to drill. You will need to keep the acrylic and the hole saw wet so you dont melt the acrylic. I would also place some masking tape on both sides of the tank where you are going to drill, this will help with making a nicer hole. Practice on a piece of scrap first so you can see how the hole saw will react when you start to get completely thru the tank. My first attempt on scrap the whole saw tilted and cracked the plastic so I knew I had to be more careful. Drill a small pilot hole where your holes are going to be, it will make it easier for the larger bit to cut without "walking" across the tank. As far as how far from the seams to drill I dont know. I wouldnt get too close to the edge. I think I drilled my overflows 10" from the side and 3" from the top. The returns are drilled about 14" from the edge and 5" down. I made my own overflows also for a total price of $12 for both, that was a real easy project also. I actually drilled 5 holes in my tank 2 for my overflows and 3 for the returns. If you have any ?'s let me know. HTH