I agree with Shane.
Bulkheads are best when they are slip on the outside for strength and threaded on the inside so the drain/return pipes can be unscrewed and the bulkhead removed and re-used. Use Slip fittings until reaching an item that may need to be removed like a pump.
Remember though that cutting PVC pipe to get things apart is preferable to having a leak in a threaded joint that cannot be tightened because it's glued on the side that needs to turn. Make sense? It's easy to reconnect that cut pipe with a Slip-Slip Coupler after the threaded joint has been tightened.
Under the bulkhead, try to let the pipe drop 3-6" from the bulkhead before the next fitting. If it has a leak issue and the lower fitting needs to be cut off, there is still enough pipe to glue another fitting under the bulkhead.
I always recommend a large hole in the stand where the bulkheads go through. I mean large like up to a foot. There is nothing worse than trying to unscrew a bulkhead nut with a wrench that cannot get around the nut because of too much wood in the way.
Also Spa hose/Flexible PVC is the best. I don't know why, but I've never had any problems using ordinary PVC Primer and Cement on Flex Hose.
Lastly, place a flood catch pan under the Sump/Refugium. I've used pond liner, or several sheets of thick plastic sheet and even PVC roofing material to line the bottom and 3-6 inches up the side of the stand. This catches the spill water so it doesn't ruin the aquarium stand and the carpet/floor. Because no matter how careful you are, you will eventually be very glad that you installed that catch pan.
Hope this helps.
Edited by Mark Peterson - November 10 2010 at 6:13pm
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