Iwaki md40rxt vs deep blue triton 4 sump pump

[saratj1]

I am building a 135g reef tank with a 55g sump. I have bought a deep blue triton 4 (1050gph) for a return pump from my lfs, who said that they would take it back if I didn't want it, because I wasnt sure if it was as powerful as I wanted/need. I saw an iwaki 40rxt on cl for $125 and am thinking about taking the triton 4 back and getting the iwaki.
My concerns are :
1) Is the deep blue triton 4 pump fine for my setup flow wise, my stand is around 40'' tall + the tank is 24'' tall so about 5ft lift on the pump.

2) Would the Iwaki be more difficult or more at risk for failure due to it being a dry pump and being outside of the sump? How would I plumb the external pump? Would it be better to drill a hole in my sump with a bulkhead to feed the Iwaki or use a U-tube siphon to feed the iwaki pump?

3) Should I just stick with what I've already got because it really wont make any difference?

Any input would be appreciated, Thanks

 

[pickupman66]

Saratj1,

Iwaki makes good pumps. Here is what you get with going to that setup.

1. it may have a bit more noise, but they are pretty quiet
2. having the pump outside the sump will have less heat transfer to the water.
3. I ran a similar pump for 2 years basically non stop. ZERO issues. they are VERY reliable. what kills a pump like them is lots of starting and stopping. Otherwise, they are good for a long time. just clean the impeller annually to semi annually.
4. you will need to put a bulkhead in the sump to feed to it. make sure you install a ball valve and a union so you can remove it for service.

My current setup has two external pumps. they are a different brand but they provide a very reliable service. I wont ever use a submersible pump again if I can avoid it.

 

[Dowtish]

From what I understand is that you cannot drill a standard 55 gallon tank. I believe they are tempered, even on the sides. You might want to check with the manufacturer of the tank before buying an external pump like the iwaki.