Just purchased an RBI Rack....

[L.West]

I just got my new RBI rack delivered and have some questions. First of all, the rack is a CB70 rack and there doesn't seem to be very much room in the tub for anything but the snake and its water bowl. I am used to using the RBI cages with lots of room for hides, logs, etc.

Given the space constraints - should I stop using hides?? There just doesn't seem like there is enough space for hides.

Also, any of you that use the RBI racks - does there seem to be an issue with the tub rubbing on the heat tape when you pull the tub out - it seems to me that over time this will create a problem. I realize that the heat tape is supposed to be recessed but the unit I got doesn't seem to have a deep enough recession to fully protect the heat tape - any help with this??

I also have a concern about the placement of the probe for the Helix. If i tape the probe to the heat tape - then it will certainly get rubbed each time I remove a tub - what should I do to minimize the wear and tear on my probe. Any helpful suggestions about probe placement.

I have to say - after using nice roomy cages for so long - I was a bit dissappointed when I actually got the rack - it seems so primitive - LOL.

The reason for the switch was because of on and off feeding problems and I thought this may be the better housing option. I just don't know.

Sorry for the long post - just wanted to put all my concerns out there for you all to help me out.

Thanks.

[Twisted Reptiles]

We use hides in some of the CB70's for the girls who appear to prefer them. There is still a reasonable amout of in hide/out of hide space along with the water bowl.

We had an issue once with the heat tape not being all the way in the groove, probably popped out during shipping. Just reach back there and press down along both edges of it with your finger. Worst case scenario use some aluminum tape if you need to.

With the probe, put it on the outer edges of the heat tape where the tubs angle in towards center. You have about 2 inches to work with there. That way the probe is on the tape but will never be in the way.

Hope this helps, enjoy your racks.

[L.West]

Thanks Twisted Reptiles for taking the time to respond.

I tried to reach in and push the heat tape back in place but my arms aren't long enough - LOL.

So, if I understood correctly, I can put aluminum tape on the edges to prevent the tub from rubbing on the heat tape - correct??

I am not quite understanding where you want me to affix the probe - can you try to explain it again.

Thank you sooo much.

[L.West]

Ok, so I went home last night to attempt to set the darn rack up - there is no way my arms are long enough to reach in the back where the heat tape is to tape my probe to the tape.

Also, there are two cords coming out of the rack - I plugged them both into my Helix but my question is - I only have one probe, how will the helix control the heat of both heat tapes with only one probe. Since there are two cords - I assume there are two separate pieces of heat tape running thru this rack??

How can something so simple cause such problems - LOL.

Help.

[L.West]

Come on guys - anyone out there that can help me out here - I really need to get this rack up and running.

Help please.

[iCandiBallPythons]

Call Rich @ RBI (336) 880-5798 I'm sure he'll be able to give you info.

[L.West]

unfortunately they are closed - per the note on their site - I even emailed him but to no avail.

Thanks for trying.

[Twisted Reptiles]

Yes, there are two separate strips of 3" flexwatt in the CB70 racks.

You only need one probe. Plus both strips into the Helix. They are set up identically, they will operate identically, they just provide a bigger surface area of belly heat when you use two strips.

As far as the probe goes, put it directly on the tape, near the edge of the rack, like an inch in, so that it doesn't interfere with the tub sliding in and out. If you need a picture let me know I'll put one up, I just don't have one handy at the moment.

I'd be more than happy to talk you through if need be as well, all we use is RBI racks and have nothing but positive experiences with them.

[L.West]

Thanks Twisted Reptiles for your help. I managed to get the probe taped down to the heat tape.

Now my only question is - what setting do you have your helix set to in order to get the 89 hot side and 80 cool side. I currently have mine up to 96 on the helix and the tubs dont seem warm at all.

I really appreciate your help with this.

[L.West]

I am beginning to think that I am the only one around that has had such issues with getting a rack set up - LOL.

I finally got the rack up and running but I wanted to know if any of you have ever seen or heard about someone having to set their Helix at 102 in order to reach the desired temps of 89 hot side - 80 cool side??

The middle tub and the bottom tub are reading good numbers but the very top rack is running on the cooler side - what is up with that - why aren't they all reading the same numbers?? I have the probe affixed to the heat tape in the middle section.

Any one that can offer any help.

Thanks.