Fluval FX 4/5/6 Cheap lock lid clamps, and other filter hacks

[DMD123]

This thread is for the Fluval FX4/5/6 filter. It will contain various things pertaining to these filters which share many of the same parts and 'hacks'.

Just found these and was passing the info along for those with the FX 4/5/6 series filters.

Normally the lid clamp filters are like $10+ each but there is an 'aftermarket' solution. I just got 6 for $18 on Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PUNBYL6/?tag=wafishbox-20

Other reviewers have said they work great for the Fluval replacement so I bought a set. If they work well Im going to stock up. These are a weak item on the filter and this is a great replacement cost.

EDIT: updated link, price went up

Amazon.com

 

[DMD123]

Another hack: wanted to add this seal rebuild kit: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CLFFJMF/?tag=wafishbox-20

Well priced kit that has all the seals in it and everything fit perfectly.

Edit: 9/26/2023 Price on this kit has went up considerably at $26.98 currently. When originally posted these kits were only $15.98 which was a good deal, now not so much...

 

[DMD123]

Having 3 of the FX6’s running means lots of filter sponges. I replace about every two years. They just seem to start to rot a bit at that point. I have used the original Fluval and aftermarket and they both seem the same in terms of quality and longevity.


Fluvals run about $15-$20 for a 3 pack

The aftermarket I use are about $25 for a 12 pack

 

[DMD123]

Today was a clean out for one of the three FX6's I have on the 300.

Installed 6 new aftermarket filters
Took apart the entire unit down to the impeller and cleaned
Resealed the entire unit with new gaskets and used the silicone lube.
I really like this aftermarket gasket kit. Well priced and fits perfectly. Odd thing but it includes 2 motor gaskets.

My goal is to take apart an FX6 every 6 months and clean it. It gets new sponges every 2 years with good rinses in between. I reseal the filter every 2 years also.

I use an app on my Android phone called AqDiary to keep track of this routine.

 

[DMD123]

Had to add this to the FX series information.

Fluval finally released spraybars for the filters!

 

[DMD123]

Interesting new stuff out there now…

Amazon.com

 

[DMD123]

To clean the hoses

Amazon.com

 

[DMD123]

Well my aftermarket seal kit for the filter is getting to be really expensive at around $26 each so I saw that I could get the Fluval kit with new impeller for around $52 each so that is the route I went.


Going to rebuild all 3 of my filters. Have not had any problems, these have been running for many years, trouble-free. This is purely preventative maintenance. Inside the box:


kit includes:

 

[DMD123]

Did one of my filters tonight with the Fluval rebuild kit. Everything fit perfectly.

Getting ready to drop all the trays back in place. I use a oil drain pan to hold everything so water doesnt end up everywhere.

I also had an opportunity to use a few of the aftermarket lid clamps Ive had in waiting. You can see the solid orange ones on the lid. They worked perfectly.

 

[DMD123]

Noticed with all the 3d printed stuff available out there, there is also the plastic barrels being made. This might be better than the other options to fix the lid clamps.

Here is an example of the item available: https://www.ebay.com/itm/2852289723...18XhZrJKpqnK5PLmNQha6JgEH1831N1RoCuKQQAvD_BwE

 

[DMD123]

Spoke with my brother about the little barrels and found the pattern for them online for 3d printing. Since ha has a printer, he made a few for me to try.

He tried this batch in PLA instead of the PETG which can be harder to work with. Will be interesting to see how they hold up.

 

[DMD123]

Worked on the clamps I had saved with cracked barrels.

The weak spot in the plastic barrel that splits

My brother made me 21 of these so I have some spares

Hopefully I get some good use out of these.