What pump for a DIY skimmer

[adnup]

Hello -
I know I've been asking alot of questions lately but I clearly need some help I'm venturing into areas that I haven't been before

I plan on doing a DIY PVC skimmer like Randy's http://randystacye.com/diy_needle_wheel_skimmer.htm.
I read these also:
http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1061610
http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1063539

But I'm still not sure what pump to order.

When I order a needle wheel pump do they come with the venturi?

Comments and links to the best prices would be great

Thanks in advance.....again!!

[alljap]

I used 2 Octopus 3000 pumps on my modified DAS EX2 and they are amazing. You can buy them on Custom aquatic for about $38/each.

[adnup]

Thanks alljap - I couldn't find that pump on thier site.

I am leaning towards the Gen-x 4100, since I had one on a different tank working flawlessly for over two years.

I found one here and I think its a good price: http://storefront.addictiveaquatics.com/products/Gen_X_submersible_GX4100_water_pump-9037-68.html

[sushi0611]

theres a huge thread on a mesh modded 4100.

[adnup]

Nobody has any input? I didnt want to hi-jack anyone esles thread so I fugured I'd start this one.

My LFS suggested a Sedra 9000

[hyperfocal]

I dislike Sedra/Gen-X pumps. I find them to be made from cheap plastic and too fragile for my tastes. I would recommend an Ocean Runner 2700 or 3700 NW pump, both available from DRF&S, MD, etc. They are quality pumps. Ask about the venturi when ordering, sometimes it comes with the pump, sometimes is extra.

[Reef_bones]

I will be able to tell you how my DIY skimmer does with the Gen-x2400 NW Tuesday....I almost ordered the OTP 2000 or a OC 2700 but I had to try the gen-x first...Can't beat the price. But if it's like everything else in this hobby you get what you pay for...I will let you know how the gen-x works...

[jbd010]

Hyperfocal: Would you more highly reccommend a Ocean Runner 2700 or a Mesh Modded 2500?

[hyperfocal]

I have a 2700 on my DIY skimmer, and I have some Enkamat to do a mesh-mod... I just don't have the guts to chop up the NW impeller to install the mod yet...

If I were to do it over again, I'd probably order the 2700 and a spare 2500 impeller. I'd mesh-mod the stock impeller and keep the NW impeller on-hand as a backup.

[jbd010]

Sounds like good advice... =) Thanks

[hyperfocal]

Good luck, be sure to post up your experiences with the mesh-mod on the OR pump.

[adnup]

Has anyone tried the Aquatic Eco WP4? 950gph 85W and only $29.95! I figure for that price I could put 2.

[lakee911]

I dislike the GenX pumps. Too loud. Ocean Runners are great