[joe bauer]

Quote: Originally Posted by Charlespear Joe, I just bought a used (old vortex). It has a 4 inch Bulkhead. It's to connect to the skimmer (2in.) using a pump. (I know, not ideal) (gavity feed from the skimmer won't keep up, if I pump it from the vortex to the pond) so, I'll pump it to the vortex and spill over to the pond. I Think? What would I do to go from 4in to 2in? I think a reducer, and maybe a 90 elbow on the inside of the vortex forcing the water to go along the side of the vortex.....? Any suggestions?

a gravity fed vortex is an amazing device, i have three retrofitted, and i will never build another pond without one. i know they work and remove an incredible amount of crud from the system. i don't pretend to understand how they work.

generally the simpler the better and i think your plan is good. i would use a reducer as you suggest. my vortexs are homemade from plastic mix and fill tanks. i put an angle fitting inside, as you suggest, and they work very well. the water slowly swirls and the crud settles. they have 2" bottom drains and i get a thrill every time i open one and see that dirty water leave my sustem!