I bought an AC70 from Big Al's and have begun modding it into a fuge. I have read all the posts on doing this and here is my attempt. I have one question about an alternative to cutting up the basket for the use of the grate. I thought about using a smaller hole grate material that used for needle work, that way I can use the entire basket. My concern is it clogging up over time but I can make it removable for cleaning. I'm also using a strainer from an old filter so I will not have to cut the intake tube. Your input or concerns would be appreciated.

#7 mesh plastice canvas from Hobby Lobby

grind held in place by the basket

strainer

filter material

+1

I used the plastic canvas in the same way using the basket to hold it in place. Has been running over a year like that and never clogged up on me. when I pull the basket out to trim the chaeto I simply scrub the canvas with a tooth brush and rinse it, then put it back in. Takes less than 5 minutes! Happy reefing!