Thanks for the compliment.
It was really very easy.
I used a 20h tank since a 20L would not fit. I would suggest a 20L as light would penetrate into a shallower sump better.
Then I just measured the size of the equipment I wanted to fit into the sump, i.e. skimmer base, return pump, filtration bag and heater. From these measurements I placed the dividers.
The dividers are 1/4inc. plexiglass held with a healthy amount of aquarium silicone bought at a LFS. I used the step down dividers for aesthetics; I buit a few Koi ponds with waterfalls recently and probably got the idea from there.
The skimmer and overflow are custom made for my Delaware LFS. Both are rated for tanks 40g larger than mine and I would suggest going oversized as well. I don't remember the return pump's brand name, probably Remora. It is rated at 500gph giving 375gph with four feet of head. I am now lighting with a 21inc flo w/bulb made for aquariums/plants, both bought at Home ***** . The incandescent grow light shown was too hot.
The stand was made by a local metal worker who had built other things for me as well, like an iron entertainment center. He painted the iron with some type of marine paint so it wouldn't rust.
I hope to get some updated pictures once I can borrow the digital camera again.
Good luck with your tank.
