Ball Valve/Bulkhead Suggestions

[paulthomas]

Has anyone used the heavy duty Sch 80 Cepex ball valves from BRS?

http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/Plumbing-and-Pumps-Schedule-80-Plumbing-Schedule-80-Valves-Schedule-80-Ball-Valves/c14_15_16_17/p64/¾”-Heavy-Duty-Cepex-True-Union-Ball-Valve/product_info.html

I was looking at Hayward bulkheads too.

http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/Plumbing-and-Pumps-Schedule-80-Plumbing-Bulkheads-Heavy-Duty-Hayward-Bulkheads/c14_15_31_32/p152/3/4%22-Hayward-Bulkhead-Slip-x-Thread/product_info.html

But I'm not sure the holes I have drilled into my tank will accomodate them. I think Miracles said that they drilled 1.5" holes for 3/4" bulkheads (return lines). The Hayward 3/4" Hex bulkhead apparently needs a hole 1.63" in diameter. Plus they're gray, I'd prefer bulkheads in black. But everyone says they're great. Does anyone have any other good bulkhead suggestions?

Thanks,
Paul

 

[JayM]

hey 2-drii....the regular schedule 40 bulkheads do just fine...or at least they have in my tanks. Sch80=overkill in a reef, IMHO

 

[Dave McReeferson]

I used all sch80 Bulkheads and valves for my system. It was not necessary, but looks nicer, and the sch80 ball valves are clearly of higher quality the the standard sch40's you buy at HD, so much smoother IMO.

FWIW, the hayward bulkheads aren't very nice IMO, I know they are a big name, but the seal just doesn't seem as nice to me as some of the others.

 

[paulthomas]

hey 2-drii....the regular schedule 40 bulkheads do just fine...or at least they have in my tanks. Sch80=overkill in a reef, IMHO

I agree in regards to drains. But to be on the safe side, I'd like to use Sch 80 for the returns. Miracles suggested Sch 80 too. I've got one return line in the center of the tank, which will be a little tough to get to. So I'd like to beef that up to lessen the chance of leaks, etc. I know 40 is fine. But 80 is not much more expensive, so why not. It's just a precaution.

 

[paulthomas]

I used all sch80 Bulkheads and valves for my system. It was not necessary, but looks nicer, and the sch80 ball valves are clearly of higher quality the the standard sch40's you buy at HD, so much smoother IMO.

FWIW, the hayward bulkheads aren't very nice IMO, I know they are a big name, but the seal just doesn't seem as nice to me as some of the others.

I never heard any complaints about their seals. But I'll take your word for it. I think people really like them because of the hex shaped flange. It gives you something to grip.

What did you use?

 

[JohnK]

Yes, the sch 80 bulkheads need a slightly larger hole. (try measuring yours )

IME the hayward ball valves / true unuions are very nice, much smoother than cheaper ones, and they come with thrd and socket ends which can be pretty handy. Only down side is they need to be cleaned occasionally (just like anything else....)

 

[paulthomas]

Yes, the sch 80 bulkheads need a slightly larger hole. (try measuring yours )

I'd need some really long arms to do that.

IME the hayward ball valves / true unuions are very nice, much smoother than cheaper ones, and they come with thrd and socket ends which can be pretty handy. Only down side is they need to be cleaned occasionally (just like anything else....)

I'm going to give Savko a try. Dave had really good luck with their products.