I am in the process of setting up a tank (55 Gal) with a Fluval 304 filter and a Lifegard FB300 FBF. I wanted to hook this up underneath the aquarium by connecting the canister filter to the FBF. According to the FBF instructions, you need to install a by-pass valve and a tee connector to the outflow tube of the canister filter. The problem I have is that the canister filter uses a 5/8" ID tube, while the Lifegard uses a 1/2" ID tube.

I have two problems:

I cannot find a tee that inserts into a 5/8" tube and has a 1/2" connector for the other tube.

The rep I talked to at the on-line store that I bought the items at told me they do not carry such a tee and that the configuration I am attempting is not recommended because of the different flow rates of the two filters. He told me I would not be getting enough flow to properly maintain the tank.

Can anyone comment on the configuration I am attempting as I have read numerous posts saying that people have done this? (I am concerned by the comments made by the sup person. Would the flow rate be sufficient to maintain the tank? Does anyone know where you can get a tee as I described or is there a workaround?

Thanks.

Well, IMO, the 304 itself would be enough for the 55 without the FBF. I'm running a 45 with a 203 so I'd imagine you'd be ok with the 304.

If you do want the FBF however, I would suggest going down to your local hardware store and finding some kind of 5/8-1/2 converter. You could then put this before the T and use a 1/2" T or put it between the T and FBF and use 5/8" T. I would probably go for the latter because it would allow the bypass the to operate at full capacity if the FBF jammed.

HTH,
Josh

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"I may not agree with what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it." -Voltaire

Iona check out this post it should give you all the info you need.

http://www.petswarehouse.com/ubboard...ML/000247.html

[QUOTE]Originally posted by damerf28:
[B]Iona check out this post it should give you all the info you need.

Thanks, I thought I read all the posts on the subject, but obviously missed this. I have an additional question.

Whould I purchase a 5/8" Ball Valve as the line from the filter has a 5/8" ID? I am somewhat confused by your description of the Ball Valve you used in your hookup. Here is your quote
"the ball valve (or flow control valve) is 1/2 inch FPT (female pipe thread) with two 5/8 inch barbed ends X 1/2 inch male pipe threaded into it."

You can probably gather that I am not up on my plumbing at this point.

I have this exact same hook-up!
I have a 60gal with the fluval 304 and the lifegard 300. It works great! Your local home depot should have allthe parts you need. I simply followed the directions that came with the lifegard and it was easy! It's alot easier when you get the parts.
Good luck
fletch

Just go to lowes and tell them what you are doing they helped me out a ton the valve is just a cheap pluming valve with two barbed ends threaded into it. they carry the exact flexible hoses that your canister has so you can see if they fit at the store without bringing any hose with you.