Fluval 205 And 305... Can They Be Trusted?!

[Vectorous]

Hello,
 
So I've got two Fluval filters, a 205 and a 305 (Pictured below) I recieved them for free because they were leaking. I've managed to stop the leaking by simply applying petrolium jelly to the rubber gaskets, they havn't leaked since. Can they be trusted? I don't want to wake up one morning and find my whole room has been flooded and my tank is empty...
 

 

 

[coolie]

I don't know, but I sure am going to go and put some petroleum jelly on mine just in case it ever decides to leak.

 

[KirkyArcher]

If you've stopped the leak by lubricating the O ring, you're in the same boat as anyone else with an external filter, I would recommend replacing the o rings, will only be about £10 for both for even more peace of mind, and also petroleum based lubricants (Vaseline) will over time lead to the breakdown of the surface of the rubber. Silicon/water based lubes much more healthy.

 

[Chad]

Keeping the O-ring in good shape and replacing it when needed is just part of canisters and the regular maintenance that goes with them. It's not a sign of a bad filter or anything. I also second what KirkyArcher wrote about the type of lubricant to use. I've owned the 305 and found it to be a good filter.

 

[Vectorous]

Thanks for the response guys, I'll look around the shops for some silicone stuff but I've never seen it before! I'll consider replace the O-rings soon

 

[coolie]

** decides not to rub Vaseline all over my equipment after all **

 

[Vectorous]

** decides not to rub Vaseline all over my equipment after all **

I used Vaseline, I doubt it'll cause much damage too quickly, it's good for a temp fix though

 

[KirkyArcher]

https/www.rcspares.com/rc/store/product/hpi-electric-components-general-accessories-oils-chemicals-shock-differential-oils/hpi-pro-silicone-shock-oil-50wt-60cc-86959

 

[SouthernCross]

How often should you change the o-ring? I have a pair of 305s running for nearly two years and I've never changed them, had
no leaks yet, but maybe I should change them before they do?

 

[Vectorous]

How often should you change the o-ring? I have a pair of 305s running for nearly two years and I've never changed them, had
no leaks yet, but maybe I should change them before they do?

 
I've no idea, if they're not leaking yet they should be fine... Get them out and check them every now and then and always re-lube them! If they start to leak, it'll be a tiny stream or a few drops coming out the side.

 

[Vectorous]

So apparently, the 205 cannot be trusted... Started as a few drops then a big stream, would have flooded my room if I didn't catch it in time!

 

[coolie]

So... how come? You said it was ok, then it started leaking again?

 

[KirkyArcher]

Rubber don't like Vaseline! Probably the Vaseline just temporarily filled in some gaps (flatspots) or splits, replace as advised and you'll have two good filters again

 

[Chad]

I used olive oil to lubricate mine. Had the same o-ring for 5 years.