Alternatives to Sponge Guards for MP40s?

astraycat · Dec 12, 2019

Hi guys,

I recently got a pair of MP40s.

I've been using the sponge guards since I do have anemones in my tank, but they get clogged and greatly reduce the flow in what seems like hours.

Are there alternatives?

Thanks,
-a stray cat

lpsouth1978 · Dec 12, 2019

@Evan West make some 3d printed guards that are awesome. I just ordered my 2nd one a minute ago.

astraycat · Dec 12, 2019

lpsouth1978 said:
@Evan West make some 3d printed guards that are awesome. I just ordered my 2nd one a minute ago.

Wow those look great! I've sent him a PM. Thanks!

45ZoaGarden · Dec 12, 2019

They sell 3D printed ones on bulk reef supply as well

astraycat · Dec 12, 2019

45ZoaGarden said:
They sell 3D printed ones on bulk reef supply as well

I had no idea! Thanks.

Though BRS has had enough of my money this holiday season

. I'd like to also support people like Evan if I can.

45ZoaGarden · Dec 12, 2019

Hahaha yeah, they got enough of my money too. Ooo I need another....

lpsouth1978 · Dec 12, 2019

45ZoaGarden said:
They sell 3D printed ones on bulk reef supply as well

I originally purchased one of the ones BRS sells, but I like the one Evan makes because it is a direct replacement of the stock "cage". The one at BRS goes over the top of the stock "cage" and makes the MP40 HUGE.

naterealbig · Dec 21, 2019

lpsouth1978 said:
I originally purchased one of the ones BRS sells, but I like the one Evan makes because it is a direct replacement of the stock "cage". The one at BRS goes over the top of the stock "cage" and makes the MP40 HUGE.

Anyone have a link to Evan's product?
Thank you!

ca1ore · Dec 22, 2019

Has anyone tested these to see if they actually work ... as opposed to just assuming they do? I’m frankly skeptical.

lpsouth1978 · Dec 22, 2019

ca1ore said:
Has anyone tested these to see if they actually work ... as opposed to just assuming they do? I’m frankly skeptical.

I had one of my Haddoni carpets get stuck in a gyre pump, a jebao pump, and my MP40 before installing the nem guard and I have had ZERO problems since. One nem climbed onto it, but was unable to get through and I was able to just let him move off on his own. So IME, YES! They work!

lpsouth1978 · Dec 22, 2019

naterealbig said:
Anyone have a link to Evan's product?
Thank you!

Just PM @Evan West and he will take care of you.

Greg P · Dec 22, 2019

astraycat said:
Hi guys,

I recently got a pair of MP40s.

I've been using the sponge guards since I do have anemones in my tank, but they get clogged and greatly reduce the flow in what seems like hours.

Are there alternatives?

Thanks,
-a stray cat

Have you tried running your pumps without the covers?

I ran 4xMP10s in my 75G without covers without 'nem issues ...

D-Nak · Dec 22, 2019

I bought some on EBay. Just make sure you get ones that actually provide a buffer space between the wetside and the guard. Some are just covers and don’t provide enough protection. It only takes one tentacle to get sucked in to pull in the entire anemone.

Evan West · Dec 22, 2019

lpsouth1978 said:
Just PM @Evan West and he will take care of you.

Check out my for sale thread in the 3D printed and homemade categorie. Lots of pictures and customer testimonials. Shoot me a pm if you like what you see and want to order.