All Fluval Spec Mods

[WONTAR]

This is my fluval spec V I’ve had up and running for about 3 months.

Currently have 2 threadfin rainbows, 3 danio galaxy, an oto, and 2 CRS and 3 ghost shrimp. Since setting up the tank I’ve only lost 1CRS to what looked like a molting problem, but that was just a couple of days after introduction - the other two have seemed fine for 2 months now.

The plants are all stock plants from Petsmart, but have really done well. Currently 25% of the water is changed weekly, with daily Excel doses.

The only modifications I made to the setup was the addition of an off brand LED light (8000K white/12000K blue) and an AquaClear 20 powerhead to get some water agitation for increased CO2. The tank is divided up into two minor eco systems. The left side is brighter, open, with faster water movement. The right side is darker with slower water movement. The oto loves the quicker brighter side, while the shrimp hang out more on the darker quieter side. I gave up taking pictures of the fish, they move to fast.

I have been surprised at the plant growth. Need to get in there a do a little aquascaping, but some tools bought on Amazon are wrapped and under the Christmas tree.

[MABJ]

That's an awesome spec! I like the changes. I'd definitely add more ottos to the shoal.


MABJ's iDevice used for this message :p

[WONTAR]

Thanks! One of the things that attracted me to the V was the sleek stock light. But now it is driving me crazy - very difficult to work around it if you need to get into the tank.

[maxwellag]

Originally Posted by MABJ

Alrighty..

So a few things I've learned..

In order:

1: The tank is really nice, but you could always replace the filter. The black section is easily removable, and you could stick in some normal filter and still use it like that, just have the extra deep space.

2: If you hate the frosted glass, and you want to try out the idea in #1 (keep in mind that is kind of a permanent mod..) you can put normal scotch tape on the frost, and it makes it see through again. I personally like it the way it is, so I haven't done this.

3: I've looked for different filter ideas, or how to make it better, but I feel like for keeping fish and baby fish, you should put a nylon stocking rubber banded over the outflow if you have the stock black outflow unit.

4: The filter slit at the bottom is/was a huge issue for me. I'd love for different successes and failures on it, but I realized that plugging it completely wasn't the best idea. I put a plastic mesh cover on the front of the sponge cartridge, and when I slipped it down, it kept my shrimp from getting back there. I learned the hard way, they can, will and do get back there and die.

That's all I've got for now! I hope people like the idea of the thread!


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I haven't really seen a reason or need to modify mine yet. The filter seems to be just right (flow wise) for the tank, and it has a huge amount of media compared to filters with similar flow rates. I also see no point in replacing a built in hidden filter compartment with a HOB filter. I also haven't had much of an issue with shrimp getting into the filter compartment, but the easiest way to fix the issue is by lowering the water level so that it is barely above the overflow strainer. That would likely reduce the flow of the filter, so it might be a good idea to put stainless steel mesh or something behind the strainer.

[MABJ]

Originally Posted by maxwellag

I haven't really seen a reason or need to modify mine yet. The filter seems to be just right (flow wise) for the tank, and it has a huge amount of media compared to filters with similar flow rates. I also see no point in replacing a built in hidden filter compartment with a HOB filter. I also haven't had much of an issue with shrimp getting into the filter compartment, but the easiest way to fix the issue is by lowering the water level so that it is barely above the overflow strainer. That would likely reduce the flow of the filter, so it might be a good idea to put stainless steel mesh or something behind the strainer.

That filter compartment isn't the issue. It is the small one towards the bottom. Yes, the best idea is to block it With mesh or plastic.

The issue with the filter in general is it is a closed unit. Doesn't remove any mulm. My canister now effectively removes the mulm.

Lots of people enjoy modifying their specs, but I'm glad you enjoy yours the way it is.


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[difrent7]

What would be the easiest way to plug/cover the bottom intake without emptying the tank? I was planning on cutting some of the black filter foam and using some tweezers to compress it and fit it in there.

[MABJ]

Originally Posted by difrent7

What would be the easiest way to plug/cover the bottom intake without emptying the tank? I was planning on cutting some of the black filter foam and using some tweezers to compress it and fit it in there.

Great question. I'm also going to a variation of this, myself. I haven't figured out a better solution myself, so.

I'm not exactly sure of the design, but you may be able to just take and flip it upside down.

[The Big Buddha]

I did a reverse UGF with my spec to reduce current and so far it works very well, the gravel seems alot cleaner now.

http://www.plantedtank.net/forums/sh...274&highlight=

[tekkguy]

The only modification that I've made to my Spec V was to cut a hole in the outflow line coming from the pump. That has kept the water level up higher in the pump chamber, so that my heater is properly submerged. This combined with the flow turned all the way down means that I don't have to sponge off the outflow pipe to reduce the flow.

I will also be blocking the small slit at the bottom, because it bothers me that water is bypassing the filter, and I do plan on adding some shrimp.

[MABJ]

Originally Posted by The Big Buddha

I did a reverse UGF with my spec to reduce current and so far it works very well, the gravel seems alot cleaner now.

http://www.plantedtank.net/forums/sh...274&highlight=

As I've said before, that's really neat. Glad you posted it here.

[MABJ]

Originally Posted by tekkguy

The only modification that I've made to my Spec V was to cut a hole in the outflow line coming from the pump. That has kept the water level up higher in the pump chamber, so that my heater is properly submerged. This combined with the flow turned all the way down means that I don't have to sponge off the outflow pipe to reduce the flow.

I will also be blocking the small slit at the bottom, because it bothers me that water is bypassing the filter, and I do plan on adding some shrimp.

I've heard about people cutting slits and holes in the line, so nice that you posted it working. Thanks.

[tekkguy]

Originally Posted by MABJ

I've heard about people cutting slits and holes in the line, so nice that you posted it working. Thanks.

Yeah, it actually works really well. I'd say the hole is probably ~1/4" or so. I'm using a 50W Hydor submersible heater in there (AHY00034) that fits perfectly. I could have gone with the 25W since they are exactly the same size, but I went for the 50. It's a bit overkill, but rarely cycles on.

[MABJ]

Gotcha! Well thanks.

I decided to stop keeping a heater as mine is shrimp only, but I love that you can fit them back there.

[Jeffww]

I cut slots into the lid of my spec V so I could use a clamp on LED light...used a saw/soldering iron to melt and cut them out.

[MABJ]

Neat. I don't even use my lid on my 2g. Water disappears quick :p