This is a re-publish of a poorly done instructable that I posted a while back.

Transform an aquarium air pump to create a weak vacuum

This type of pump will only produce a weak vacuum but I use it for positioning electronic components and de-soldering applications.

You will need a tetra whisper Aquarium pump, a Philips screwdriver and about 5 minutes.

Step 1: Open the Pump

On the bottom of the pump you will fins 4 Philips screws. Remove these with a number 2 Phillips driver.

Flip the pump over and lift off the large blue plastic cover.

Step 2: Convert to Suction

The white plastic squares on the pump assemblies need to be rotated 180 degrees.

The whole white arm assembly will lift straight up and the white plastic piece will rotate.

Then the pump assembly is pressed back down into place.

Step 3: Reassemble and Enjoy

Reattach the cover and attach the air lines.

The pump will now create a vacuum.

As noted it is a weak vacuum but suitable enough for simple tasks like picking up electronic components.