Plastic Sump Screws

[Tangdora]

Hi all recently acquired a new sump before I hook it all up I was thinking about swapping the included plastic sump screws with marine grade stainless steel. Always had issues win the past with plastic getting stuck or stripping. Does anyone know if the plastic screws that are usually included are included simply because the dont rust and are flexible or is there risk to using stainless and not having flex with could potently damage or crack the acrylic. My actual goal is to reverse screw and then uses wing nuts on the adjustable sliders.

 

[mike550]

I would stick with the plastic screws if they are going to be submerged in water. It seems like “marine grade” stainless steel comes in two grades and will still pit.

 

[Cardanpal]

I totally understand your situation with those plastic sump screws. Dealing with stripping issues can be a real pain. Your idea of using marine-grade stainless steel screws is a smart move – they're known for their durability and resistance to rust.

 

[reeftivo]

have you considered titanium

 

[Tangdora]

have you considered titanium

Titanium oddly has never crossed my mind till you just mentioned it but make perfect sense complete remove iron all together from the picture. Thanks.

 

[reeftivo]

Titanium oddly has never crossed my mind till you just mentioned it but make perfect sense complete remove iron all together from the picture. Thanks.

Never rusts
I run them in my fixture mounts and half my skimmers have them.
Mcmaster carr has some and even amazon. Don't like giving my money to amazon much but sometimes it's unavoidable.

 

[Cardanpal]

I totally understand your situation with those plastic sump screws. Dealing with stripping issues can be a real pain. Your idea of using marine-grade stainless steel screws is a smart move – they're known for their durability and resistance to rust.

However, your concern about flexibility and potential damage to the acrylic is valid. It might be a good idea to look into options that offer both strength and flexibility to ensure a secure fit without risking any cracks. You know, there's this awesome store that specializes in all sorts of bolts and screws – they might have just the thing you need for your setup. Best of luck with your project, and I hope those wing nuts make everything even more convenient for you!

 

[SteveMM62Reef]

Titanium from McMaster-Carr. BTW I’d take the Nylon Screw to the Local Hardware Store and Find out its size. Some Screws on my Aquarium Accessories are Metric.