Fluval Spec Pump Upgrade Mod! w pics!

[hlaalu]

Love the spec? Hate the flow? Look no further!

After doing a lot of research on the net, I discovered the best pump upgrade for the spec is the mini-jet 606. But one thing I was not able to find were some pics and comparisons vs the stock pump. So here it is:

First, here is the pump, brand new (cost about $22 with shipping from amazon)


Out of the box, the pump won't fit:


But fear not! Very simple: remove the back and front covers. It's very easy, they just snap off. I'm guessing it was designed that way for cleaning.

I added a slice of foam to protect the prop, but depending on your media stages you probably won't need it. I'll probably remove it my next cleaning, as the water in my pump chamber is always clean anyways.




Ok now for the fun stuff, here is a side by side comparison of the stock pump and the new pump.

It's about twice the size.

Here is the flow of the stock pump:


And... drum roll..... flow of the new pump:


Wow! Seriously wasn't expecting this much flow, soaked half my kitchen. This will put your spec on steroids, so watch for mood swings!

Stock flow:


Mini jet flow:



And there you have it. An awesome, cheap mod for your spec.

Some quick notes:
-You'll need to cut about an inch to inch 1/2 off the return flow tubing otherwise it will kink because the new pump is taller.
-I'm thinking about poking a hole in the return tube to circulate the pump chamber water a little bit. Definitely have enough flow for that



Anyways that's pretty much it, enjoy!

[Bubba Shrimp]

Great job I like the mod

[SpecialEffect]

I like this mod also! Its tempting me to buy a spec v!!!
The downer was the flow... But clearly you have solved that issue!!
Now thinking about my lighting hmm...

[sayurasem]

Brilliant!

[hlaalu]

Originally Posted by Bubba Shrimp

Great job I like the mod

Thanks!

Originally Posted by SpecialEffect

I like this mod also! Its tempting me to buy a spec v!!!
The downer was the flow... But clearly you have solved that issue!!
Now thinking about my lighting hmm...

I have you covered on the lighting too! I'll post a pic in a bit

Originally Posted by sayurasem

Brilliant!

It really is a must have mod, would be great for a nano reef especially.

[bat_billy]

I just did this mod and to be honest i'm not seeing much better flow. I think the problem is that there isn't enough space for the water to get around the pump housing once it is placed into the left most pump column in the filter box.

[bat_billy]

I just solved my own problem:

The issue was that the pump created a suction and slid itself up against the wall. By sliding out the suction cup bracket slightly on the bottom of the housing you can allow the bracket to create the spacing between the pump inlet and the wall. That bracket is on the pump tightly and is definetly going to hold itself in place.

Another benefit of that bracket is that by moving it in and out you can then control the flow rate of the pump.