Skimz Leopard L75 Circulation pump

Stang67 · Aug 28, 2019

So I purchased one of these at the 80% off flash sale on BRS. It has a 1980 flow rate at 13ft max head. The issue that I am having is that i cant find a flow chart for this pump ANYWHERE. I need it to go 8ft and give me 300-420 gph at that height. I am running a basement sump and running the flex line straight up to a 60g frag tank display. I am hoping this will be enough initial flow to get up the 8ft and give me the 350ish gph i need at the display. Any help determining if i am good or will have to return would be great. One other thing i am going to have to deal with is the return diameter of the tank is only 3/4 inch and the pump is 1 1/4 inch so 1/2 inch difference. I am gonna assume that the best place to put the reducer(s) will be right after the pump outlet? or should it be right before the bulkhead? or am i screwed there too. Good thing BRS has a good return policy.

tygger · Aug 28, 2019

I was gonna say find specs for the askoll motor block, but I couldn't find anything on it either. I can't even find reviews on this leopard pump...

Stang67 · Aug 28, 2019

I know right?

Loggerhead · Aug 28, 2019

I looked at these a few months back and decided against them due to the minuscule information and reviews on them. They at least have a quality motor block on them but I don’t think you will find much information. I looked for a couple of weeks. I almost bought one today as an emergency pump.

tygger · Aug 28, 2019

Which other pumps use the askoll motor block?

Water Dog · Aug 28, 2019

tygger said:
Which other pumps use the askoll motor block?

The Fluval SP series of pumps as well as the Laguna Max Flo series. Both have stellar, rock solid reputations for reliability and longevity. I believe the old Water Blaster pumps by Reef Octopus used Askoll motor blocks as well.

don_chuwish · Aug 29, 2019

I'm thinking you'll have plenty of flow but I agree it would be nice to have a chart to confirm it. I picked up the L90 (2375gph) when I really wanted the L60 (1700gph). L60 were all snatched up already. So I'm actually hoping it's not TOO much flow. Just couldn't resist the deal.

TinyTinCans · Aug 29, 2019

Well one thing is for sure with all the pumps they sold today it won’t be long before there should be an abundance of information and reviews on these pumps. I think it is genius marketing. Think about it:a pump with next to no info and very few reviews. now bam the market will be saturated with these and plenty of information will follow if they’re good pumps every will know if not everyone will know. I picked up a L75 and am super stoked to try it out. Thank You @Bulk Reef Supply

Stang67 · Aug 29, 2019

I emailed Skimz directly and got a copy of the flow chart. I ended up with a 75 and the 160. may keep both just to have as a back up or to use to trade for a wave maker. the 160 looks to be WAY too much and the 75 should be just right. Hope this helps everyone

tygger · Aug 29, 2019

Looks like the smaller pumps don't handle head pressure very well, similar to the Fluval SP pumps.

Sailingeric · Aug 29, 2019

I ordered the L60 which was said to be a 1700 GPH pump but the flow chart says 1350 at zero feet. Not a big deal as I plan to use my for a mixing station. I do wonder if I can use the pump externally, as it appears to be possible from the pictures.

kayatela · Dec 18, 2019

Sailingeric said:
I ordered the L60 which was said to be a 1700 GPH pump but the flow chart says 1350 at zero feet. Not a big deal as I plan to use my for a mixing station. I do wonder if I can use the pump externally, as it appears to be possible from the pictures.

Did you ever determine whether it can be used externally?