Place filter in desired location beside or beneath the aquarium. Be sure the filter is situated below the water level of the aquarium.
FILTER MUST NEVER BE ABOVE WATER LEVEL.
Measure the required amount of hosing for intake and exhaust system and cut to desired length.
Cut one piece of about 2-3 inches (5-7 cm) from each hose to install the hose valves.
Attach one connector hose to intake spout and one to output spout. Lock into place with hose lock nut.
Install a hose valve into end of each positioned connector hose and tighten hose lock nut.
Attach hose to valve on the IN spout, and tighten with hose lock nut. Connect the other end of the hose to the adjustable rim connector and tighten with hose lock nut.
Place strainer on the bottom of the intake stem. Attach the intake stem to the rubber elbow and then to the adjustable rim connector on the same side of the intake hose. (For Fluval 103 and 203: attach the intake stem to the rubber elbow using the step up adapter and then the rubber elbow to the adjustable rim connector.)
Position two suction cups on intake stem and attach to tank.
Attach hose to OUT spout valve, and fasten with hose lock nut.
Determine position of spray bar and attach two suction cups on spray bar. (For Fluval 403: Connect both spray bars together with connector hose, if desired, otherwise:)
Plug end away from rigid elbow with exhaust plug, join the open end to the rubber elbow using the step up adapter (not required for the Fluval 403) and attach it to the adjustable rim connector on the same side of the exhaust hose.
Fully open both valves. Before final connection of exhaust assembly, air must be sucked from the exhaust hose. This will create a vacuum in the intake tube. Be sure the tube fills with water as it flows into the canister. The siphon effect will fill the filter unit with water. As the canister fills, complete exhaust installation by connecting hose to adjustable rim connector. Once water level in the hosing is at the same height as the aquarium, connect to electrical supply. Be sure no air is in the intake tube, and that the spray bar is operating. In case of airlock, hold unit sideways in such a way as to release any trapped air in pump.
Position suction cup brackets on intake and exhaust hoses and attach to tank.
