Having a tank drilled?

S

SilverDragon

Member
I am moving my 180gallon tank in January and am really tempted to have it drilled. A local SW only shop will do it for $30 a hole. I want 2 of them on the back wall. My question is what is the risk level? How worried should I be? If it cracks I will be selling my fish and out a tank that I can’t replace. I am tired of my CPR overflow that sounds like a beer bong 24/7! My other question is that I am running 800GPH right now and will be staying with that so how big of a bulkhead will I want to get me over 800GPH so my pump wont outflow the overflow?
 
glampka

glampka

Active Member
Go over to Glass-Holes.com dope aquarium stuff - they have super overflows. The come as kits including the drill bit and are reasonably priced. I just drilled my 72 bow front & it's no big deal. Just be sure to take your time - let the bit do the work & be sure to lubricate the bit to keep it cool. Provided the back is not tempered you should have no trouble at all.
 
J

jkburton1s

Member
do its so easy, just take your time and dont put pressure on it. its as easy as they say. i have drilled 7 tanks and yet have one go bad, just be patient and keep the bit cool with a water bath or puddle. the thicker the glass the easier it is. my 180 has 1/2" glass, which thicker is better so i wouldnt worry one bit. i have drilled a few 40s my 2 75s and just to try it a 10. none have cracked......... dont be affraid, just be gentle. and it will save you 60 bucks. and use a overflow box like on glass holes, do not use stuff from lowes. i busted a tank by using make shift parts. use correct bulkheads, and parts and you will not have anything to worry about
 
G

gone postal

Member
Yeah, have a 75 I want drilled and local glass shop said $25 each. I'm worried too. Watched a few vids on youtube and it really doesn't seem bad. I got the tank for free and am cheap, so I might give it a shot. I saw one vid where a guy used Play-doh to make a ring around the area he wanted the hole and filled it w/ water - that way the bit was always cool. Seems like a good idea. Any other tips/tricks? What kinda rpm, etc? It should take like 2 minutes to do right?
 
Clownfish518

Clownfish518

Razorback
PREMIUM
The first hole I drilled I was very nervous, but when the glass popped out my reaction was that's all there is to it? Incredibly easy

To answer your question, a 1.5" hole will drain 750gph. I would advise two 1.5" holes and run it at 750 gph or there about (800 would be fine). Snails have a way of working their way into funny places and clogging up overflows. Having more flow capacity than flow will keep your carpet dry
 
J

jkburton1s

Member
put duck tape on the back of the hole you drill or else you will have a possible busted tank on your hands. i dont know why everyone is freaking out. its like washing the car. take your time and just do it. let the drill do the work, do not lean into it. i have drilled enough tanks that i dont think twice on any of them. even the 10 gallon ones
 
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