papap

If I install a sump do I have to cycle the tank and sump The aquarium is about ready for fish. I have a 36 gallon tank and I'm think about making a sump with a 10 gallon glass tank.

Slug

The sump should be connected to the tank and should cycle when the tank does. A better word would be cycling the system. Because all together its a system. So no, don't cycle them separately.

papap

I will not have the sump build for a couple more weeks. So you are telling me I need to start all over.

Slug

No if your tank is already setup and cycled just basically "plug" the sump into the setup and start it up. It will establish itself.