SeaClone and diatoms questions

I'm wondering if anyone has any tips for making a SeaClone 100 skimmer work any better. I've tried some of the various modifications around the internet (new air valve, taping the base of the collection cup), but I still can't get it to work. It's either nothing at all, or the cup fills up with water in under 15 minutes. Of course I also have the ton of bubbles filling up the aquarium.

I had the seaclone running with the valve closed for probably 4+ weeks, so I'd think it would be broken in by now. Any help would be appreciated on how to fine tune the seaclone.

My next question is what's the best way to fight off diatoms? I've had a clownfish in the tank for about a week now and that's when the diatoms started appearing. I was thinking of getting a cleaner crew this weekend. Would they help any and what would be a good group to have for a 55 gal. tank that won't have but 4-5 fish max. I think the protein skimmer would help with the diatoms too, but as mentioned above I'm having trouble with it.

Any help for a saltwater beginner would be appreciated.

thanks,
jeff

Yeah I have a sandbed -- it's about 4" deep.

I'll look to getting some of those snails this weekend. I might consider getting the clown a friend. He's been hanging out around the side of the tank playing with his reflection, so I guess that's a good indication of wanting a friend.

I'll play with the seaclone a little more this weekend. It's definately getting frustrating.