Drilling the back of a full tank?

[~Flighty~]

It can be done, right? I just want a simple hole or two for an overflow for my fuge. What is the risk that it will crack the tank?

 

[NateHanson]

I think it's pretty safe. Take it slow, keep the bit lubricated/wet/cool.

 

[reefphreak]

How low should you lower the water level when drilling..... I know the glass bows out like a son of a gun with water in it....

 

[~Flighty~]

Mine is an all-glass 75g if that makes a difference. I was thinking one or two holes on the side glass a few inches below the water line.

 

[scavdog]

Cindy, I did this. I drained the tank 1/2 way down (roughly). I then used a template to start my hole. Using a very nice diamond glass cutting hole saw provided by Yaktop, I first made sure the drill was level. With high rpm's, constatnt pressure and patience I cut two 1.5" holes.

I did have a very elaborate fail-safe network of tanks to ease my mind in the event of the unthinkable. In addition I had a spray bottle full of sea water to keep the corals moist.

 

[JustDavidP]

Cindy, I (though it was really Gustavo) drilled my 26 bow when it was up and running. I drained 1/3 of the water, and Gustavo and I used a wooden template, a clamp to hold it in place and just dremeled the heck out of the glass. I made only one hole to fit a 1" bulkhead, but it worked fine.

Dave

 

[nhbloke]

Stupid question, does to glass dust/wet slurry affect any of the tank inmates.

Many thanks John

 

[mloebl]

I was curious if this was possible as I really really regretted not getting my 75g aga drilled. I figured with the .5" glass it would be a major pita and thought of completely emptying didn't seem feasible either. I picked up a CPR overflow a couple mos back but haven't put it in yet after reading the horror stories. I've got full access to the front and back of the tank as it seperates my living room from my dining room. It's tempting to try this. How long does it typically take to drill 2 holes in .5" glass?

-Mike

 

[~Flighty~]

I'll let you all know how it all works out. I think I'm going to try to do it this weekend. I'll take lots of pics

 

[JustDavidP]

I drilled from outside in with a dremel. There was little to no dust or slurry that made it into the tank. With the dremel, you don't have to keep it wet as you would when using a drill. The glass dust on the family room carpet however...did not make the Mrs. happy

 

[Yaktop]

get the inside dry enough use duct tape to keep everything/most out of the tank.

 

[Scuba_Dave]

Video would be better....

I'll let you all know how it all works out. I think I'm going to try to do it this weekend. I'll take lots of pics

 

[Aquaman_68]

Cindy, I did this. I drained the tank 1/2 way down (roughly). I then used a template to start my hole. Using a very nice diamond glass cutting hole saw provided by Yaktop, I first made sure the drill was level. With high rpm's, constatnt pressure and patience I cut two 1.5" holes.

I did have a very elaborate fail-safe network of tanks to ease my mind in the event of the unthinkable. In addition I had a spray bottle full of sea water to keep the corals moist.

How long did ea hole take to drill?

 

[G.T]

I will see you tomorrow Does that mean i am going to be emortalised on film