Tank Bulkheads

03-20-2012, 08:27 PM
Post #1: creefer

Tank Bulkheads

Coming from an AIO and moving to a tank with a sump, should I silicone my bulkheads in place or not? I noted when I drilled my tank, I did have some minor chip out on one of the holes, not big, but it made me think that I should silicone the gaskets to the tank.

What say those with more experience?
03-20-2012, 09:16 PM
Post #2: Sir Patrick

I did not silicone my bulkheads, but I didnt have any chips.

I would wait to hear from someone with experience w/ a chipped hole, just in case. I would think it could make a difference, but unsure.
03-20-2012, 09:48 PM
Post #3: schminksbro

I wouldn't silicone. The gasket should seal just fine as long as the chip doesn't exceed the outside edge.
03-21-2012, 04:45 AM
Post #4: creefer

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sir Patrick

I did not silicone my bulkheads, but I didnt have any chips.

I would wait to hear from someone with experience w/ a chipped hole, just in case. I would think it could make a difference, but unsure.

Thanks, Chris.

Quote:

Originally Posted by schminksbro

I wouldn't silicone. The gasket should seal just fine as long as the chip doesn't exceed the outside edge.

The chips are not outside the perimeter of the bulkhead gasket. I assumed they would be fine. I plan to use a little silicone grease when assembling. Keeping my fingers crossed I guess. If it does leak, should I silicone them in?
03-22-2012, 08:17 AM
Post #5: binford4000

I always use double gaskets on the scheaduale 40 bulkheads.One on each side of the glass to ensure a good seal.I prefer the scheaduale 80 , they can be tightened much more with out the danger of stripping the threads on the jam nut.Small chips are usually not an issue as long as they are covered by the gasket(s)
03-22-2012, 11:40 AM
Post #6: creefer

Quote:

Originally Posted by binford4000

I always use double gaskets on the scheaduale 40 bulkheads.One on each side of the glass to ensure a good seal.I prefer the scheaduale 80 , they can be tightened much more with out the danger of stripping the threads on the jam nut.Small chips are usually not an issue as long as they are covered by the gasket(s)

I'm using double gaskets as well. I expect that they will cover the chips. There are only 2 and they are small. I plan on using a little silicone grease on the gaskets as well. I think that can only help my case.
03-22-2012, 11:42 AM
Post #7: AZDesertRat

No.
Here are some links to a Bulkhead Installation Tips sticky I have on many of the reef forums:
Installing Bulkhead Tips

Bulkhead Installation Tips - 3reef Forums

Hope this helps!
03-22-2012, 03:28 PM
Post #8: creefer

Quote:

Originally Posted by AZDesertRat

No.
Here are some links to a Bulkhead Installation Tips sticky I have on many of the reef forums:
Installing Bulkhead Tips

Bulkhead Installation Tips - 3reef Forums

Hope this helps!

Thanks, AZ. Certainly helpful.