Beckett DIY skimmers

[fender]

Has anyone built their own beckett based skimmer. I have seen some plans on the web for these, and I am wanting to build a better skimmer for my 90g. I am using a CPR BAK PAK and it just isn't big enough.
I was hoping someone else here had done this and could provide some feed back and if they were satisfied with the results.
I am trying to do this on the cheap.
[ August 09, 2001: Message edited by: fender ]

 

[serpent]

I ahve only heard of a select few people building one of these. From what I have heard, they are really hard to build and do not last very long. I hope that helps.

 

[myreef]

Originally posted by serpent:
<STRONG>I ahve only heard of a select few people building one of these. From what I have heard, they are really hard to build and do not last very long. I hope that helps.</STRONG>
What doesn't last long? Just curious....I retrofitted an ETSS skimmer with a beckett about 3 years ago and until recently it was still in operation.
Depending on what you want to build or the tools you have, it may be cheaper to buy a skimmer. IF you already have the tools, drill press, table saw, router, etc, etc....you may be able to do it. What type of skimmer did you have in mind, other than becket? I mean what style.....

 

[fender]

I am planning on to build a ETS style downdraft. Basically a box with a verticle tube for the beckett/air/water entry and another larger one for the collection cup.
I used to be a carpenter and have all the tools I need or at least most.
I have never worked with plastic tho.
I figure I could probably build it for about $50 in materials allowing for a couple messups minus the pump.
What happened to yours and were you happy with the performance after the beckett was installed?

 

[fender]

BTW Myreef, I just hit your web site. We may be in touch soon. I already have the beckett. The flanges you have would make things alot easier

 

[myreef]

I was happy with it, I just built a better skimmer. Plus that skimmer was a little small for my setup.
Unless your skimmer will be really small, expect to have a lot more than $50 in it...trust me on this one!

 

[ironreef]

FWIW if your not a diy person it's sometime cheaper to buy. But if you like to make things have the tools it can be cheaper and you can have pride in what you make. I've bought things diy= cal reactors ect. that were built very good and nicer than I could make.I'm good at steel,woodwork anything heavy construction but for some reason everything I diy(for my aquarium) leaks= maybe thats why they don't last= the maker. But my becket skimmer= bullet runs flawless no probs. You can't break a becket. But you can have a poor designed skimmer.