yeah I tested it as if it was going to be working in the tank. i just pumped water in with the co2 regulator closed like you said, and hooked it all up. it's all working good and my ph is about 8.2 during the day and 7.9 at night, is that pretty good? anyways it's holdin water and working good. I will show a pic in operation in awhile.
I am working on it chris, been freakin busy.