How to replace BioCube pump

TikiBird · Oct 31, 2017

I’ve finally decided to replace my BC29’s stock pump with the Cobalt Aquatics MJ1200. It seems to be a pretty common upgrade.

However, I am not very mechanically inclined, and I have had this new pump sitting around in the box because I’m too afraid to install it! [emoji15]

I’ve been trying to find videos or basic instructions on how to remove the BC29’s stock pump and install this new one, but I cannot seem to find any. It’s so common they have to be out there, but I’m having no luck searching.

Would anyone be able to please point me in the direction of some sort of tutorial on this?

EriksOasis · Oct 31, 2017

Just reach in the back a pull the old pump out and then put the return line on the new pump and reinstall.

EriksOasis · Oct 31, 2017

Not the bio cube but same concept.

TikiBird · Nov 2, 2017

EriksOasis said:
Not the bio cube but same concept.

Thank you, @EriksOasis! So it looks like the pumps aren’t really attached to anything (except for with suction cups) except the return nozzles?

Heliarc19 · Nov 2, 2017

TikiBird said:
Thank you, @EriksOasis! So it looks like the pumps aren’t really attached to anything (except for with suction cups) except the return nozzles?

Correct

EriksOasis · Nov 2, 2017

Yeah just the return nozzle pull right off and the new pump just rests inside the compartment.

Katrina71 · Nov 2, 2017

He's right. Kinda swap and go.

Krzydmnd · Nov 2, 2017

Should take about 30 seconds. Just feel around in the bottom to make sure no old suction cups stuck. And might want to siphon out any sand in that chamber if you have any there while the pump is out.

EriksOasis · Nov 2, 2017

Hopefully there’s no sand in the pump compartment! Mayb siphone any built up detritus.

TikiBird · Nov 2, 2017

Thank you, @Heliarc19, @Katrina71, @Krzydmnd, and @EriksOasis! It’s a good idea to siphon sand too. I will update you all on Saturday when I finally try this. [emoji23]

TikiBird · Nov 4, 2017

It is done! So far, so good. The pump didn’t have directions but thank goodness for YouTube. And my husband, who is tall and had an easier time reaching it! I have to say that I don’t think it’s really that different in my flow than the stock pump, but maybe I was expecting too much for a $40 pump. [emoji23] Anyway, hope it’s good and holds up well.

EriksOasis · Nov 4, 2017

Mayb be getting a little bit more gph but it’s only slightly higher gph than the stock pump.

TikiBird · Nov 5, 2017

EriksOasis said:
Mayb be getting a little bit more gph but it’s only slightly higher gph than the stock pump.

I think you’re right and maybe I need to add another powerhead? I currently just have one Koralia 425 Nano. Maybe I’ll get another. Or is it better to have one that makes a more random flow? [emoji848]

Krzydmnd · Nov 5, 2017

TikiBird said:
I think you’re right and maybe I need to add another powerhead? I currently just have one Koralia 425 Nano. Maybe I’ll get another. Or is it better to have one that makes a more random flow? [emoji848]

I have the same tank, pump, and started with the 425. I bit the bullet and added an mp10 and it's a HUGE difference. Consider it if it's in your budget.

Krzydmnd · Nov 5, 2017

Krzydmnd said:
I have the same tank, pump, and started with the 425. I bit the bullet and added an mp10 and it's a HUGE difference. Consider it if it's in your budget.

Everything in the tank is noticeablely happier, fish and coral.