Should the top pipe go down below the level of the side pipe?
Actually it works OK with the suck just at the top. I use a converted plastic dustbin with 50mm PVC fixed to the lid.Yes or you won't get a cyclone action - it'll just draw stuff direct from the side pipe up the outlet.

I put one of those 4" flanges on the bottom with some flexi aluminium hose to the bucket, (had it built into a cabinet). They work surprisingly well.


