BakPak Mod?

Hey everyone,
Just got a new to me bakpak skimmer in the mail from a 3reef member. I haven't even set it up yet because i know there a ton of mods out there for the bakpak. Its got just the little rio 600 on it, and i am already planning to replace the powerhead because it looks a little weathered. Probably go with a MJ1200. I have heard of airstone mods and of modding the MJ1200's impellar to produce more bubbles. Going to be a few days before i get around to setting it up since my tank and i are 3 hours apart at the moment... Anyone ever modded a CPR and what works the best??? Whatever I decide to do i'll post some pics.

 

Skip the airstone mod, PITA IMO (you have to replace the airstone and placing and removing is annoying) Do do the mj1200 with the airline direct to the impeller mod and also change out the air inlet valve to one of those needle types that you get with powerheads, picture below. With these two mods my cpr bak pak does a fine job of making tea. The only maintenance other than cleaning the cup and neck is using a scrubber with a handle in the chambers to wipe off any algae that builds up over time due to overflow of light if it is being used as an HOB on the tank.

 

The Accella unmodded kicks any MJ mod you can do. Just get the pump they now ship with and you'll be happy

 

which Accella?

 

The one it comes with of course

CPR AQUATIC, INC - BAK-PAK™ 2



It doesn't mention which model on their website and mines 30 miles away ATM. Given they (CPR) modify them, you'll need to talk to them.

Just email CPR, they are very helpful.

 

Well i emailed CPR to see what they have to say about the new pump. I have seen alot about the MJ mods and it looks pretty easy to do... And those pumps are dirt cheap. I'll see what CPR says. Anything else anyone?

 

The Accela is nearly the same cost IIRC.

I've used every pump and mod under the sun on my handful of Bak Paks (pin wheels, mesh wheels, etc, etc). I've found the Accela to produce a higher volume of bubbles that are finer. It also works longer in regards to needing to clean the venturi.