PDA

View Full Version : My 150g build thread


Thinslis
08/05/2007, 09:11 AM
Just so you know, this all started because I woke up at 3:00am on a Saturday and couldn't go back to sleep!

I bought the tank used from the used goods forum ($400). Pickup was in Columbus Ohio which is about two and half hour drive for me.

I picked up the tank this past Saturday... turns out a 150g tank and stand, do not fit in a Trailblazer.... =(. Solution!

Tank:
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/DSCN0474.jpg

Stand: =)
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/DSCN0470.jpg

It was just under 200 miles one way =)

Stand: I think I am going to refinish the stand.
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/DSCN0476.jpg

Tank plumbing
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/DSCN0478.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/DSCN0481.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/DSCN0482.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/DSCN0483.jpg

Thinslis
08/05/2007, 09:16 AM
Day 1 Progress:

Yesterday I removed all the plumbing:
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/DSCN0491.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/DSCN0490.jpg

I also cleaned the tank out as much as possible. Still some coraline to get off the overflows.

I also picked up a heater: ($18)

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/DSCN0493.jpg

Future sump: (Free)
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/DSCN0492.jpg

and I also ordered a 5 stage RO/DI unit =)

I have a Mag 5 ($30 shipped on the used forums) pump on order also to help circulate some vinigar water in the sump to clean it out. Its been sitting in someones garage for unknown amount of years and was really nasty on the inside.

Famous
08/05/2007, 09:37 AM
Looking good. I know that feeling of wanting to get up and start on the tank. Im working on my 150 right now as well. I would reccomend cleaning around your tank drains and returns really well so you get a nice clean surface for your bulkheads (new ones!) Is that a 5 foot tank? What kind of lighting are you planing on using?:D

Thinslis
08/05/2007, 10:15 AM
Famous, looks like we are both heading down the same path =). Yes so far I have got just about all the silicone off the glass around the holes. I think I am going to have an issue with the bulkheads, if ou look at the pictures you'll see they drilled 2 of the holes very close to the edge.

It is a 4 foot tank. I plan to use my 36 inch 2x250w MH light to get the tank started, then replace it with something yet to be determined down the road. I'm leaning tward sticking with something MH, maybe mix in 4 T5s or something to come on before the MH.

yoboyjdizz
08/05/2007, 01:45 PM
Can't wait to see more progress. Its alway exciting setting up a new tank. Thats why favorite part. What are the dimensions of your tank? Your 36 inch 2x250 MH should hold you off for a while.

skriz
08/05/2007, 01:57 PM
That was some nasty looking plumbing; way too much silicone!

Looks like an exciting project. Congrats on the deals you're finding on the equipment too; that's awesome!

Thinslis
08/05/2007, 02:11 PM
Just picked up a tube of silicone and some new razorblades at Home Depot ($14).

While I was there I saw some nice 34g trash cans on wheels. I think I may buy one and use it to transport water from the kitchen where the RO / DI unit will be mounted to the tank room. They were only $15. I figure I could drill a bulkhead into the bottom and leave a pump in there and just plug it in and pump water into other tanks =) I'm sooo lazy =)

Thinslis
08/06/2007, 06:13 PM
The Mag 5 showed up today =)

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0494.jpg

39lbs of live rock for $50 =)

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0495.jpg

jer77
08/06/2007, 07:43 PM
Nice start. I just picked up my 180g tank in Columbus too on Friday. I'm so happy I can't sleep either. Try to get more pics of everything.

Thinslis
08/06/2007, 07:59 PM
More pics to come for sure =) Not much going on right now, just aquireing all the parts I need. I'll probably get the new bulkheads this week and install them, purchase the baffles and install them in the sump. I want to do all the silicone work at one time so I don't have to buy another tube unless there are leaks.

Thinslis
08/07/2007, 11:26 AM
Lots of parts on order at the moment:

Bulkheads will be in on Friday ($28)
Mag 9.5 used ($70 shipped)
Octopus NW 200 used ($130 shipped)

=)

Thinslis
08/07/2007, 04:34 PM
I filled up the sump today, I wanted to find out where the leaks were so I can get it dryed out in time to maybe install the baffles this weekend. Figure I'll do all the silicone work at one time =)

Nano Chris
08/07/2007, 05:05 PM
Very cool to see a new tank being setup. Cant wait to see more progress.

Thinslis
08/07/2007, 05:17 PM
I look forward to posting more progress for you.

These are my design documents so far (I ROK at MS paint) =)

Drain lines:
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/Linestosumprearview.jpg

Return lines:
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/Linesfromsumprearview.jpg


Sump:
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/Sump.jpg

yoboyjdizz
08/07/2007, 06:06 PM
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10486409#post10486409 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Thinslis
Just picked up a tube of silicone and some new razorblades at Home Depot ($14).

While I was there I saw some nice 34g trash cans on wheels. I think I may buy one and use it to transport water from the kitchen where the RO / DI unit will be mounted to the tank room. They were only $15. I figure I could drill a bulkhead into the bottom and leave a pump in there and just plug it in and pump water into other tanks =) I'm sooo lazy =)

This will greatly help you with water changes and make your life a little easier! This is what i do besides the wheels and works great.

Thinslis
08/07/2007, 06:12 PM
Go Cowboys! =)

yoboyjdizz
08/07/2007, 09:30 PM
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10502155#post10502155 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Thinslis
Go Cowboys! =)

haha don't get me fired up! haha

Thinslis
08/08/2007, 05:41 PM
Called the glass place today and ordered the baffles for the sump: ($27.15)

2x 12x15
2x 12x14

They said I could pick them up at 5:00PM =) So I was thinking to myself... "Self, how are you going to get the center baffle of the bubble trap 1" off the bottom... and how are you going to get the baffles to stand up and the silicone cure".... Solution =)

Stoped at the lumber yard after picking up the baffles and bought a pieces of 1x4 =) ($3.77)

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0496.jpg

Ready to install!

Not so fast says my dog... you need to take me for a ride or I'm not getting out of this truck!

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0497.jpg

=)

Well I cut my little glass holder device out of the 1x4 and also a piece to mesure the 19 1/4 inches that the center baffle needed

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0498.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0499.jpg

Cut 1 24" piece 2x 18" pieces and a 1" piece.... I screwed the 1" piece to the 18" piece, then instered the glass and laid the other 18" piece on top of that and screwed down the other side of the 1" piece now they are exactly 1/4 of an inch apart. Now I can lay the sheet of glass and my spacers in place and silicone the baffle into place having it exactly 19 1/4" from the end of the tank (skimmer section) and exactly 1" off the bottom of the tank....


PROBLEM =(

I miss mesured.... the baffles need to be 11 3/4 inches.... not 12" =( UGH!!!!

Tomorrow I will call the glass place back and see if they can shave 1/4 inch off each piece.

Also I cleaned up the edge of the sump where the leak was identified in one of the vertical corner seams. When it is ready for silicone.

Thinslis
08/10/2007, 10:15 AM
Today the following parts arrived: Bulkheads, RO / DI unit, and Mag 9.5 ( Pics soon =) )

I also ran over to Home Depot on lunch and picked up a wide varity of 1" PVC, Ball valves, T couplings, 3/4 to 1" adapter, 90 elbows, and of course 1" and 3/4 10 foot lengths of pipe.

This should be enough to get me started on the drain lines from the tank when I'm ready for it.

Thinslis
08/12/2007, 09:24 AM
Some actual progress was made this weekend. My new bulkheads came in on Friday as well as my RO / DI unit, and I got the glass for the sump baffles fixed.

So Friday I installed the RO / DI unit under the sink (These things were not ment for small spaces!)

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0507.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0508.jpg

And it works =)
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0511.jpg

Saturday I worked on the bulkheads, sump baffles, and disassembled my old tank.

Bulkheads: I broke one of the new bulkheads after I tried to tighten it down to much, snapped the head right off. So I'm using the best looking of the old ones. I solved the problem of the bulkheads going over the lip of the tank moulding by cutting down one of the sides of the bulkhead. Installed and leak tested. There is a leak on the overflows because I didn't put any teflon tap on the threads, but the outside of the bulkheads have no leaks =)

(Shot before I cut down the edge)
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0501.jpg

Sump: (Silicone stinks!) 3 tubes of silicone, one I wasted (didn't read the directions, 2 for the build.

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0513.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0514.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0518.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0519.jpg

Sunday Leak test:
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0523.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0520.jpg

I may decide to drill the sump, not sure yet. Next steps will be to refinish the stand, install new electrical in the house, and prep the sump room.

Thinslis
08/15/2007, 06:44 PM
Just a quick update for any of you following allong at home. Since my last update (Pictures to follow soon):

I have removed all the ouside wood of the stand leaving only frame

Squared up the frame, was out of square by a lot!

My skimmer has arrived

I have painted the back of the tank

HPD Turbo
08/15/2007, 06:52 PM
It amazing my sump is exactly like yours, and I DIMS all.

Thinslis
08/19/2007, 07:31 AM
Ok here are some pics I promissed awhile back.

Skimmer!
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0524.jpg

Stand progression

The stand when I first got it:
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0476.jpg

The stand as it is now.:
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0526.jpg

And I just picked up the wood yesterday to rebuild it, so more pics of that to come later.

Here is the painting of the tank:
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0527.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0528.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0529.jpg

Next steps:
Finish the stand
Run the new Electrical in the house
Prep the sump room

kev apsley
08/19/2007, 07:43 AM
good work!

InLimbo87
08/19/2007, 07:48 AM
Tanks cleaning up very nicely. Keep up the good work :D

Thinslis
08/19/2007, 07:53 AM
Thank you =) I have some help showing up today, we are going to put the stand back together (I don't have the correct saws for the job) and maybe at least get the electrical lines dropped into the walls (neither of us want to put our hands into the breaker box) =).

Thinslis
08/19/2007, 03:25 PM
More progress on the stand:

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0537.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0538.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0539.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0540.jpg

solid14th
08/19/2007, 03:57 PM
Great job so far. I am finding your thread VERY useful. I am setting up my first reef tank--- I was wondering, aside from the sump, where else do you use silicon? Is silicone need to install the bulkheads?

Thinslis
08/19/2007, 05:34 PM
No, if you look at the original plumbing you will see they siliconed the bulkheads. This is incorrect. You need to make sure that the rubber O ring is on the INSIDE of the tank, then do not over tighten the bulkhead fitting. If you overtighten it may "tweak" rubber gasket and it will leak. None of your plumbing should need silicone.

Thinslis
08/19/2007, 05:35 PM
So for all of you playing along at home.... What color should I paint or stain this stand?!? I have no idea.... I was thinking black myself but I am open to anything... Within reason =)

Help me decide!

MR PALM BEACH
08/19/2007, 07:14 PM
IMO I would stain It, It will come out alot nicer and be alot more eye apealing. Black just reminds me of the stands at pet supermarket. Inless your favorite color Is black then by all means paint It. Just my 2 cents. Coming along nicely:thumbsup:

Thinslis
08/20/2007, 06:53 PM
Ok I think I might be crazy.... but..... it looks like on Saturday I'm going to drive 1.25hrs to get 70lbs of live rock for $100, then 3.75hrs for 300lbs of Southdown sand for $120, then 5hrs home.... Hmm....... We'll see if the Southdown deal goes through though, kinda iffy on that trip but I have someone who will buy a couple bags to help with the gas cost.

jer77
08/20/2007, 08:18 PM
I might be able to get my hands on some southdown for you. I'm in Pittsburgh which is like 2.5 hrs away from you. I have a friend who stockpiled some who he got from a friend's friend who got it back when it was available. I go and take care of his tanks tomorrow so I'll see if I can if you want me to. I can probably get 6 40-50 lb. bags.

jer77
08/20/2007, 08:31 PM
I have one bag left from my tank, it looks like this:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1057/1189186912_cd2ae5cafa.jpg

t11t5
08/20/2007, 10:30 PM
Thinslis, Did you get the pic of the 400w MH lights im selling?

Thinslis
08/21/2007, 05:23 AM
t11t5, Yes I did get the pic. I went another direction though. I bought a 8 bulb T5 setup. Thank you though for the offer.

Jer77, please do check on that Southdown for me!

Thinslis
08/21/2007, 05:24 AM
Jer77, your PM box is full =)

t11t5
08/21/2007, 08:40 AM
Thinslis, I went with the 72" Aquacinics Constellation. I cant wait to see your set-up when it running. Goodluck.

t11t5
08/21/2007, 10:27 AM
I rok at Paint also LOL. I have a suggestion. Move over the single baffle 1 3/4" closer to the other baffles. Or leave it, but then set it up like this.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v521/t11t5/150Sump.jpg


This will keep your fuge critters out of the skimmer. Also will be able to control the flow of water to the refugium. You should also put ball valves on all out coming plumbing. This will allow you to stop all the water in case you need to without breaking the siphon. Plumb the two bulkheads separate like the graph shows. One on a T+ ballvalve going to the fuge section. Just a thought.

t11t5
08/22/2007, 12:29 AM
Thinslis. Here is a ATO for sale. I use the same one on my 150. I love it and have had absolutely no issues with it. Just trying to help.......

JBJ ATO (http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1190305)

Thinslis
08/22/2007, 12:33 AM
Thanks for the heads up, my budget is shot right now. Between the 70lbs of rock I have to pay for and the sand, plus paint for the stand. I'm not going to be buying any more equipment for a little bit. Thanks also for the plumbing advice. I plan to put ball valves on each of the lines on both sides of the wall just in case =)

Thinslis
08/23/2007, 03:05 PM
Well.... I had really hoped to have the stand sanded and finished up and ready for paint by this weekend.... However.... one of our plants in Jersey decided to have a server failure... So I've spent the better part of the past three days sitting at a tiny table next to a Xerox copier with a serious buzzing issue! They could have told me their was a perfectly good network cable and conferance phone in the conferance room AROUND THE CORNER!.... I'm not bitter or anything..... With any luck I'll get to work on the stand this weekend.

Thinslis
08/24/2007, 05:36 PM
Tonight I got the tank off the stand and took a palm sander to the stand in my driveway. I think the stand is out of level left to right by a quarter of an inch. Tomorrow I will sand down the doors and the one edge that is out of level. No sense posting picks since it doesn't really look any different =)

Sunday I hope to run the new electrical in the attic to the sump room and near the tank. Would it make sense to run the wire into the stand and install outlets inside the stand? Or just put the outlets on the wall behind the stand?

axia55
08/25/2007, 01:59 PM
Looking great so far! Hope the live rock works out well for you.

Thinslis
08/25/2007, 06:27 PM
Thank you Axia for the live rock =) It is going to look great in the tank =)

Today it started raining as soon as I got home from picking up the new live rock... so I worked on the electrical. Got everything ran and preped to be droped in the wall and plugged into the breaker box.

Sorry I was exausted and couldn't keep the camera all that still. It was really hot up there!
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0542.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0544.jpg

Then when I finished with the electrical and took a shower, the weather broke and I was able to work on the stand. All sanded up and got the quarter round on. Also got the stand level left to right, front to back will need shimed just a sliver I think.

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0551.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0547.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0548.jpg

Not sure when I'll be able to find someone to patch in that breaker =( Don't really want to pay all that much to get it done seeing as I've done all the rest of the work....

On the stand I think I'm going to buy new doors. The old ones are not sanding very well. I think it will be easier to start from scratch. Maybe a local cabinet place will have some scratch and dent specials =)

And I've decided to just straight paint the stand black, nothing special just black (will help hide all my amature mishaps) =)

Thats all for today, hope you are enjoying.

oldreefer76
08/25/2007, 07:29 PM
I hope the extra Romex is there for a purpose.....like being pulled into the junction box? Also Let me know when you need it tied into the breaker box

Thinslis
08/25/2007, 07:42 PM
Sorry Oldreefer76, I forgot to post this pic.

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0545.jpg

There should be plenty to get it over to where te breaker goes on the top far side. Also I verified the breaker sticker vers breaker box to make sure it was in fact the correct breaker.

Its ready any time you are =)

oldreefer76
08/25/2007, 07:54 PM
Can you get a pic of the breaker box straight on? so that I can see what is going on in there, your current shot looks like it is in a closet and it has wire splices in it

Thinslis
08/25/2007, 08:07 PM
You are correct, it is in the closet.

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0558.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0559.jpg

Thinslis
08/27/2007, 04:36 PM
Ok, now I'm trying my hand at painting. Here is the stand with the first coat.

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0579.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0581.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0582.jpg

t11t5
08/29/2007, 08:09 AM
That looks alot better than I thought it would being black. Great job.... I like the flat black look. It also reduces finger prints.

Thinslis
08/29/2007, 09:45 AM
Thank you, I put the second coat on last night. It looks pretty much the same so I didn't take any new pics. My neighbor came over last night and looked at it (he's a painter) and he gave it the thumbs up.

So my plan tonight is to bring the stand in the house, mark on the walls where I want the new electrical boxes and where the holes need to be for the plumbing. Then take the stand back outside, put the tank on it and begin a final leak test and plumbing mock up. =)

Thinslis
09/01/2007, 11:49 AM
Ok other then a little touch up spot on the front of one of the doors I'm calling the stand finished. It is by no means perfect or impressive, but I think it looks better then the old stand. IMO...

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0583.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0585.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0587.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0589.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0591.jpg

The top trim will eventually someday be covered by a hood but for now I wanted it to match everything else.

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0592.jpg

stuccodude
09/01/2007, 12:27 PM
did you use a brush or sprayer on the stand, looks nice, i shot mine black it was white and i sanded it but it nicks real easy

Thinslis
09/01/2007, 12:33 PM
I brushed with a 3in brush, 2 coats on everything and I used just about every bit of 1 quart of paint. There is enough to touch up spots like the spot on the door but that is about it.

t11t5
09/02/2007, 12:36 AM
You must see something not in the pics. It looks good. I like the flat black. Makes it look modern.

Thinslis
09/02/2007, 08:40 AM
Thankyou T11, Yes I do see the flaws but it did cost less then a new factory stand. I think I have $60 in materials and about a day worth of time into that stand.

I just applied a second coat to the top frame and the side and back glass.

I have a friend that is going to come over on Wed evening and get the electric recepticals in the walls, and OldReefer is going to come fix up my breaker box maybe next weekend? =)

Next set of pics should be the tank in the house! =) and then I get to start playing with the plumbing! =)

Thinslis
09/02/2007, 04:32 PM
Here is my new light, well used light.

I think the reflector is shot and will need replaced, same with the bulbs.

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0593.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0594.jpg

Started curing the rock today as well. Filtering some more water now to fill the second bin.

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0596.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0597.jpg

t11t5
09/03/2007, 09:42 AM
Go to auto zone and get a can of Mothers metal polish. Its like $5. Its in a red plastic container with all the cleaning supplies. That will polish the refector right up. I used it on my chrome motorcycle frame. Works wonders.

Thinslis
09/03/2007, 12:28 PM
Anyone who owns a bike and doesn't have mothers should be shot =). I'll give that a try =)

Thinslis
09/03/2007, 04:45 PM
Wow, that water from the rock was NASTY, talk about stink. I took out each rock and looked it over for dead stuff and picked as much as I could off. Scrubed each one and put in fresh water. I hope the water will stay for at least a few days now, give my RO/DI a rest! =)

Thinslis
09/06/2007, 06:44 PM
Ok, Last night I got the electrical boxes installed in the walls, tonight I got everything wired up and the breakers installed in the box, and just a note I DID IT ALL MYSELF =) Not bad for never doing any elecrical before. I didn't take any pictures because I'm just too hot and sweaty and Football is on =)

Tomorrow the tank WILL be IN THE HOUSE =) Woo!

chrisjet
09/06/2007, 07:15 PM
good thread , who makes that light ?

Thinslis
09/06/2007, 07:28 PM
Sunlight Supply Tek Light T-5

Thinslis
09/07/2007, 07:44 PM
Why is it that the tank seems so much bigger one its in the house! I mean I mesured out the area where the tank was going to be but it just seems a lot bigger now that it is actually in the house! Tomorrow I will be working on plumbing and finall cleaning. I do need to touch up a spot on the stand where we rubbed some paint off trying to get the tank in to the stand one in the house and also a spot on the front of the top trip of the tank, not sure how that got dinged but it just needs a dab or two of paint to be back to normal.

Pictures tomorrow I swear! =)

Thinslis
09/08/2007, 09:10 PM
The tank has arrived! In the living room at least! =)

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0599.jpg

Sorry can't get any better angles on the tank yet the furnature is still all in disarray since I was working on PLUMBING all day =)

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0601.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0600.jpg

The sump/fuge

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0598.jpg

The drain lines are still setteling but I was able to leak test the return lines since I finished those first. The fitting that attackes to the bulkhead in the first picture inside bulkhead is leaking. Tomorrow I'll take it appart and apply a generous amount of teflon tape and try again.

Tomorrow I will be hanging the light fixture, cleaning the tank and may add sand and start filling with water and rock =)

Thinslis
09/09/2007, 11:55 AM
Just finished leak testing the drain plumbing, had a leaky fitting there as well, found a flaw in my plumbing, I didn't have a union on the straight pipe coming out of the tank, I had to cut the pipe to fix the leak and then installed a union. If the other side ever starts leaking I have a union on hand to put in place to... like the saying goes... if it aint broke, don't fix it =)

mike660r
09/09/2007, 12:08 PM
Sorry to make this comment now, but you should have used the Savko valves. It's a lesson I learn long ago and I have installed them in all the places that plumbing has been replaced thus far.

Everything looks like it is coming together very well for you though. Good job!

Thinslis
09/09/2007, 05:55 PM
Thanks for the info Mike, I'll look into those.

Filling the tank with RO/DI water now..... Sooo sloooow! 200lbs of sand = 2.5 - 3" sand bed.

SeanySean
09/09/2007, 06:01 PM
Looks good.. bet you can't wait to get that baby filled, I know what you mean about taking its time filling with the RO Unit, everytime I walked past the tank I was sure it had not risen! :)

Thinslis
09/09/2007, 06:10 PM
I wish I was filling the tank straight up, then I could leave it go when I go to work tomorrow. However I have to fill a BRUTE trash can and wheel it over to the tank and pump it into the tank. So no more water during the day tomorrow, my RO/DI unit is 100gpd and at about 200g total volume that makes for 3-4 days of filling or so.

SeanySean
09/09/2007, 06:16 PM
lol, think your self lucky I had to fill the bath for that many days... try explaining that to the girlfriend, and then asking her to help fill the tank with a 2 litre jug across a runway of towels!!! She was sooo impressed :D it will be worth it though!

oldreefer76
09/09/2007, 06:30 PM
Looks great, is the sump plumbed into a closet?

Thinslis
09/09/2007, 07:22 PM
Wow yea, filling a tank with 2 liter jugs would not be fun at all!

Thanks OldReefer, It is plumbed into a spair bedroom that is directly behind the tank. It gives me plenty of space to setup QT tank, Auto top off tank, and salt water mixing tank. I have pictures of all that which I will post tomorrow.

oldreefer76
09/09/2007, 07:36 PM
looking forward to the pics

Thinslis
09/10/2007, 06:22 AM
Pictures as promissed:

The light:
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0607.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0608.jpg

The sump room:
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0605.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0604.jpg

200lbs of sand:
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0610.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0612.jpg

Thinslis
09/10/2007, 07:41 AM
Tunze Osmolator installed, it will need to be adjusted and possibly remounted once the sump fills up and I can see how it is operating. For now, it waits =)

Thinslis
09/10/2007, 06:12 PM
All the water is in, rock is in, salt is in. =) However I am reluctant to take any pictures of it because I am actually embarresd at how bad my rock looks right now. It is pretty nasty =( I havn't done any aquascaping yet either.

oldreefer76
09/10/2007, 06:26 PM
ahh take and show the pics, it all looks great so far

Thinslis
09/10/2007, 06:31 PM
Well I just turned the return pump on and got everything flowing, found that the same two fittings that were leaking before are leaking again. A slow drip leak. I'll have to fix them tomorrow =(

Thinslis
09/10/2007, 06:53 PM
Ok, here are some pics with the light on and rock

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0613.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0614.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0615.jpg

oldreefer76
09/10/2007, 07:54 PM
looks real good so far, a little rearranging of the rock and the Tunzes and it will be awesome, i just recently went from MH to T5 and will never go back

Thinslis
09/10/2007, 08:26 PM
Thanks, I've already moved the Tunzes back against the overflows and pointed them to the front glass so they glance off. I have to play with the settings on the controller I'm kicking up a little sand every now and again.

SeanySean
09/11/2007, 12:18 PM
(((((CLAP))))) Well done, you're there... cant wait to see the start of your reef. Have you thought about the tunze rocks? they would hide the pumps for you... just a thought.

Sean

Thinslis
09/11/2007, 06:42 PM
Sean, thank you for your comments. I'm prett sure though that the Tunze rocks are only for the small streams like the 6060s. The large ones have to be kept away from the sand bed or you would have constant sand storm.

Tonight I got some established sand from a local reefer who was breaking down a 2 year old tank. I put about and inch deep in my fuge and a cup full in my display, that should seed the sand bed over the next few weeks =). Thursday I'm going to pickup another 20lbs of established live rock to seed the live rock and move about 20lbs of my current rock down the the fuge.

I took an Ammonia reading at it was at .5. I have not had a chance to do any other tests yet.

oldreefer76
09/11/2007, 07:47 PM
did you get the leaks fixed? and lets see some pics of the sump running

Thinslis
09/11/2007, 08:14 PM
No, I have not fixed the one leak, I was running around getting some sand to seed the display and setup my fuge. Only one of the fittings is leaking actually so that is a good thing so I'll try fixing that tomorrow evening.

Here is the new sand in the fuge (LOTS of life, worms ect... so much better then store bought live sand and it cost me $0)

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0618.jpg

Skimmer doing what they do:
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0619.jpg

Ready.... Set.... GO!
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0620.jpg

Auto top off:
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0621.jpg

I need to do some work on the cables and I'm going to mount the Tunze controller on the wall between the tanks with some velcrow. I have to do the same with the transformers and multicontroler under the main tank. I'll get all that wrapped up maybe tomorrow or Thursday.

SeanySean
09/11/2007, 09:36 PM
you can deff get them for the larger pumps as I have one for my 6200, I agree that I don't think you could put them on the sand bed though, I have mine on a flat piece of LR so that it is away from the substrate

akopley
09/12/2007, 12:52 AM
I had a deco for my 6100 and it was covered in coralinne before i knew it.

Thinslis
09/12/2007, 05:24 AM
I stand corrected, Thank you =)

t11t5
09/13/2007, 03:51 AM
You should get the gate valve mod for your skimmer. It will work better and they make it easier to dial in. Just a suggestion.

One more thing, make sure your ato plumbing wont start a siphon after it tops off your tank. Otherwise all your ATO water will flow into your sump.

Thinslis
09/13/2007, 05:02 AM
Yea I was trying to get the gate valve mod right from Marine Solutions but they never returned my call, so I just cut a piece of 1.5" PVC and put it on there and then just cut it back till it was skimming good foam. I now have 2 pieces of PVC, one taller one for wet skimming and one shorter one (pictured) for dry skimming. This will buy me some time until I can talk to Marine Solutions or find a gate valve local.

Thinslis
09/13/2007, 05:04 AM
Checked my Ammonia this morning and its still reading 0... I find that odd since I can see dead worms on my live rock... Do I need to do the blended shrimp thing to get the cycle going? and if so do I shut down the skimmer for awhile afer I put in the shrimp mix?

Vin7250
09/13/2007, 07:59 AM
looks great, id try to paint on the back of those overflows it will keep the algea growth down!!

Thinslis
09/13/2007, 11:05 AM
Vin, I didn't paint the back of the overflows because I wanted to be able to see in to find any fish that might have found a way into the overflow. Plus it gets more light from the fixture over the top rather then sunlight creeping around the back.

Vin7250
09/13/2007, 11:28 AM
good point my friend, but otherwise it looks really good!!!!!

Thinslis
09/13/2007, 11:40 AM
Ok, I think I'm going to go softies, nem, clowns, and others to be named later....

Rustylugnuts
09/13/2007, 11:48 AM
Lookin good Thinslis! Been lurkin for a while figured I'd pop up and say hi. Been tryin to get parts for a 55 build together myself, just found out that the holesaws are too big for my DIY bulkheads (they were only like 2 bucks apiece so no major loss there) guess ill have to plunk the 6-8$ ea plus shippin. Keep rockin and postin them pics!

Thinslis
09/13/2007, 12:04 PM
Thanks Rusty, I'm going to do some aquascaping either tonight or this weekend and then I'll post more pics. I'm going to MACNA tomorrow so if I remember my camera I'll snap some shots for everyone.

LionfishFinatic
09/13/2007, 04:39 PM
HAVE FUN IN MACNA!! Wish I could go you lucky dog.....but alas, the troubles of being 14. Tank looks really good so far. Definitely need to aquascape a bit. Other than that TERRIFIC JOB. I give it an A++++++!

Thinslis
09/13/2007, 07:22 PM
Ok I guess I'll take the 100th post in my build thread. I can't believe I've made it this far really.

I've decided to relax this evening and not do any aquascaping. I think I'll do that on Saturday.

Lionfish, all good things to those who wait =) and Thank you for the kind words for my build. All the feedback is much appreciated, sometimes I feel like I'm talking to myself here =) LOL

seastar12
09/13/2007, 07:35 PM
Wow, very nice clean, organized setup. Good job!

Thinslis
09/13/2007, 07:52 PM
Thank you Seastar, I've put in a lot of hours working on fixing this tank up. I visited a local reefer tonight and picked up another 20lbs of Live rock (mostly rubble for my fuge) and I can say 100% I do not regret painting the back fo the tank. His tank was AWSOME, but I couldn't help but notice the stick on back blue background that had rippled. That happend to my last tank and didn't want to deal with it again.

I just did another ammonia test and I'm not sure if my test strips are any good... I can clearly see dead worms sicking out of pieces of my "used to be live" rock but ammonia still reads 0 after several days. I figured there would be at least some level of detectable ammonia by now?

I added some cut up frozen brine shrimp to the tank, we'll see if that gets anything going.

beaupierce
09/13/2007, 09:57 PM
You may want to put some plants in your sump. You can put them in the sand and throw a couple of rocks over them. It is the best natural filtration you can have. I have done this in my system and wow what a difference. It really helps in the filtration process. It is just letting nature do what it normally does.
Other than that looking good.

Thinslis
09/14/2007, 04:32 AM
Beaupierce: Thank you, Yes I plan on putting some Cheato in the fuge this weekend if I can find some =)

Thinslis
09/14/2007, 07:50 PM
Ok just got back from MACNA, armed with Test kits, a fuge light, salt, and Cheato =)

Ammonia test = 0
Nitrites = 5

Thinslis
09/15/2007, 07:31 AM
I did some aquascaping this morning, it didn't turn out exactly how I had hoped but it will change over time as I add fish.

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0627.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0628.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0629.jpg

I'll try to get some more shots once the water clears. What do you think?

Thinslis
09/16/2007, 04:06 PM
I had to change the aquascaping a little, the flow was eroding the sand under one of the rocks on the right side. Kinda upset, during the process a rock slide happened and put a 1 inch scratch in the glass =(

Water is still cloudy, water peramiters are still the same.

I appear to have an aptiasia in my fuge, I havn't been able to get a good picture but I am pretty sure that is what it is.

Abaco24
09/16/2007, 04:35 PM
Since your are asking for opinions ........No offense since you have worked hard on this project, but it looks like a pile of rocks just thrown into the tank.

Maybe try two islands in the middle with a bridge. It looks like you have the rocks to at least try that layout or something besides the traditional "wall" effect.

Thinslis
09/16/2007, 06:20 PM
Thank you for your comments. I will keep that in mind when I rearrange my rocks again =)

Thinslis
09/17/2007, 03:12 PM
The water cleared up today, white cloudiness is no more. If only the sand would stop kicking up off the bottom =(

Nitrites are going down....

Nitrites 1, Ammonia 0, SG .028, Temp 80

Here are a couple pics of my adjusted aquascaping, no real drastic changes

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0641.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0642.jpg

You'll see the cliff over this cave entrance is more pronounced and the rock in the top middle of the tank now sticks out into the tank.

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0643.jpg

t11t5
09/17/2007, 05:52 PM
Thinslis, The left Tunze pump. The front cover with the vents in it. Turn it so the non sloted part is on top. This will help stop algea growth, blocking water flow.
The left pump is good. just a tip....

Thinslis
09/17/2007, 06:42 PM
Fixed, I've been looking at that for awhile but have been lazy and didn't feel like fixing it, but now I have =)

Thinslis
09/18/2007, 03:20 PM
I came home today to find brown algae starting to grow on my rocks and sand. I'll have some water tests later, but I'm happy to see that my cycle is starting the next phase =) I'll try to get some pictures as well if I can, the spots are pretty small though.

Thinslis
09/20/2007, 03:48 PM
Day 3 of Brown algae and it is very previlent in the tank right now. Covering a few rocks and spoty across the rest and some of the sand.

Water: Ammonia .25, Nitrites .3, SG .027, Temp 80.

Thinslis
09/21/2007, 03:21 PM
wow that brown stuff grows fast! Its covering at least double the area it was yesterday. I leave my lights on while I'm at work so 6:30am - 4:30pm. I sure hope this stuff dies out as fast as its growing in! I lent my camera out so I can't take any pictures at the moment, but as soon as I get it back, I'll snap a few!

Enjoy your weekend all!

Thinslis
09/24/2007, 04:12 PM
Some current pics. I think I spotted some green algae maybe.

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0658.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0659.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0660.jpg

oldreefer76
09/24/2007, 05:13 PM
Nice Diatom bloom, should be time to add a clean up crew soon

Thinslis
09/27/2007, 06:09 AM
Brown algae seems to be subsiding and I have visible green hair algae starting to grown on my power heads, overflows, and some on the rocks.

I'm still having issues with my powerheads blowing sand around. Things were not bad when I had the Tunze's set at 20% but I kicked them up to pulse ever 3mins between 30% and 20% and switch pumps ever 10mins. =(

Not sure what to do here....

Thinslis
09/27/2007, 09:15 AM
Anyone have suggestions on a good cleanup crew?

derrikd
09/27/2007, 09:30 AM
very nice start

kawicivic
09/27/2007, 07:28 PM
what are you looking for CuC wise? I have hermits, astrea, nassarius, peppermint shrimp (for aiptasia) and an emerald crab (good for macro algae and bubble algae)

Thinslis
09/28/2007, 05:04 AM
I don't think I'll have Emerald crabs, pepermint shrimp and cleaner shrimp I will have for sure. As for the rest, I'm not 100% sure, I opened another thread to get suggestions and opinions on what sanils and crabs to get, we'll see what the results are. I should be ready to put some in when I get back from Chicago on the 6th.

kawicivic
09/28/2007, 05:19 AM
I'll be in chicago on the 6th too (for a wedding)... lol. Although I only have like a 100 mile trip.

I am looking to pick up some cerith snails too. Supposed to eat real small wastes. The nassurius I have (not the vibex.... the big ones) are extremely active when feeding. Cant say anything bad about the astrea or any turbo variety... they do a good job with the glass. My peppermint demolished my aiptasia in less than a week and the emerald did great for everything except the bubble algae which I am patiently waiting for him to find. I am hoping I made the right choice going with him since they can be somewhat iffy in a reef. So far so good with the hitchhiker zoos and polyps.

Eagles
09/28/2007, 08:46 AM
Just been reading along with the thread tonight, you're tank looks nice! Can't wait for future pics :)

Thinslis
09/28/2007, 10:54 AM
Thanks Eagles, I appreciate the compliment.

Thinslis
09/29/2007, 01:11 PM
State of the Union: Four score and 7 years..... no wait thats not it... =)

3 weeks ago =) I put water in the tank. Today here is what we look like:

Salinity: 1.026
Ammonia: 0
Nitrite: 0
Nitrate: 0
PH: 8.20
Phosphates: .1
Temp: 79

Skimmer 2 days of skimmate
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0665.jpg

Green Hair algae:
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0669.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0670.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0671.jpg

Fuge Cheto:
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0666.jpg

Mounted my electronics in the sump room:
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0668.jpg

Filter socks came in today:
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0673.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0674.jpg

I got to see first hand today what happens when your skimmer goes crazy. I put one of the filter socks in the sump and OMG the skimmer started over flowing with foam. I had to dial it down to almost no skimming to get it to stop overflowing! I'll try dialing it back up here in a few hours. I mean it was under a minute between the sock going in the water and the skimmer overflowing!

Tomorrow I leave for Chicago for a week. When I get back I'll test again and if all looks good I'll probably place an order for a clean up crew. =)

oldreefer76
09/29/2007, 08:07 PM
Brian, it is looking real good, can you mod the collection cup though to drain into a waste collector? I would hate to see it overflow while you are gone for a week and where did you get the filter socks ?

Thinslis
09/30/2007, 09:37 AM
I can mod the collection cup, however I have not had the time to do it yet. So I just dialed it down with my makeshift pvc regulator. It is still skimming but very dry. It should last for the week. I have someone stoping by on during the week just to make sure =)

I got the filter socks from Hector. I can get you the details if you want, paid with paypal and he shipped them for $1 200micron socks btw. I'll get a picture of what they look like when I get back, they were already looking pretty nasty after just one day!

Thinslis
10/05/2007, 12:30 PM
Ok back from Chicago, tank didn't do too bad.

Filter socks got pretty nasty after 5 days:

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0681.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0680.jpg

Lots of hair Algae:
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0678.jpg

Purchased a few things today:

Mexican Turbo x2
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0677.jpg

Turbo snails x20
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0676.jpg

Scarlet hermits x5 (not pictured due to where they ended up in the tank)

And finnally.... I couldn't resist

Lawnmower Blenny x1
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0675.jpg

MR PALM BEACH
10/05/2007, 02:41 PM
Those Mexican should tare right through that algea. Im big on the turbos, I have allways had good success with them when It comes to green hair algea. I bet less then a week that algea will be gone. Also try cutting the lighting down a little bit and see If that helps for now.

Thinslis
10/05/2007, 02:48 PM
I've heard that lawnmower blennies are hit and miss wether they will eat the algae or not. The one I bought started eating it up within an hour. He's still feeling out the tank which is kinda fun to watch =) But everywhere he goes he munches on some of that algae =)

The Mexican Turbos havn't moved all that much yet, I'll keep an eye on them though =)

As for my other turbos, I've had to pick them off each other a few times. A big one will crawl on a little one and knock it over and the little one can't stand back up with the big one on it. They are starting to spread out now so I hope I don't have to do that anymore.

The scarlet hermits, have yet to move off their inital rock. They might be stuck in the algae jungle on that particular rock. =)

Have a great weekend all.

PS> Anyone know how to properly clean filter socks?

MR PALM BEACH
10/05/2007, 03:14 PM
My turbos only come at night when all the lights go out, never see them move during the day Inless somthing is bothering It. The filter sock I just jet It out with my garden hose Inside and out, then I let It dry out In the sun killing any leftover bacteria. I found that washing them In the washer machine tends to tighten the material of the sock making them only good for 2 or 3 days and then there filled back to the top.

Rjukan
10/05/2007, 03:28 PM
looks good, I like the pictures a lot!

t11t5
10/06/2007, 09:25 AM
Thinslis check your pm's.

oldreefer76
10/06/2007, 09:39 AM
for cleaning the filter sock cold water and a little bleach in the washing machine is what I have read

Thinslis
10/06/2007, 07:49 PM
I tossed the socks in the washer with some bleach, we'll see how that works out.

Just checked the tank temp and its almost 85! I think I might need to get a chiller =(

oldreefer76
10/06/2007, 08:46 PM
Crank up the AC it is still almost 80f outside tonight, we try to keep our home at 75 in the summer and 70 in the winter , plus your sump is in a spare room so just put a fan blowing on it , no need for a chiller

Thinslis
10/07/2007, 06:31 AM
I'll look into the fan option (thanks for the tip) I don't have any air conditioning in the house.

Thinslis
10/08/2007, 06:39 PM
Ok, I got the tank to cool down today. Tank is at 78 now. I also got my light timers worked out

Attinics On 11am
Daylights on 12pm
Daylights off 7pm
Attinics off 8pm

Fuge light on 8pm off 11am

When I get moonlights they will run 8pm to 11am

Now that I got the light timers all set I'm going to go dark for two - three days to help clear out some of the hair algae.

MR PALM BEACH
10/08/2007, 07:22 PM
How are your turbos and the blenny doing? are they takeing care of green hair pretty well?

oldreefer76
10/08/2007, 07:53 PM
IMHO going dark will slow the problem down but not eliminate it, you need to deal with the nutrients feeding the problem, check your tds, add a phosban reactor and or cheato to your refuge section and water changes, light does not fuel the problem nutrients do, our 55g gets lots of direct sunlight and 12 hours of T5 lighting and we have little algae growth besides coralline, increase your flow, and set your skimmer to skim wet will help also, just my 2 cents

MR PALM BEACH
10/08/2007, 08:14 PM
You know If your water Is all up to par and I dont know what your live stock plans are, but you could put a foxface or a tang In there to grase on that green hair. That would be an unlimited buffet for them and plus you wouldnt even have to feed them till Its gone.

Thinslis
10/08/2007, 08:48 PM
I plan to put a phosban reactor in. I have Cheato in the fuge. No direct sunlight on the tank. The tank just came off initial cycle so the algae shouldn't be a big suprise and I wasn't suprised. Plus I had the lights on for quite awhile for the past week while I figured out the auto timers (Corallife power strips suck).

I do think I'll be getting a tang or two... esspecially if I can get a deal on some /nudge t11t5

PS> The algae is getting better, the turbos are helping, the blenny is helping and I pulled a lot out by hand last night.

Silverfin
10/08/2007, 09:44 PM
Nice set-up...

Looking forward to more pics! ^_^

Just wondering: What kind of Tang are you planning to get?

Thinslis
10/09/2007, 11:13 AM
Xaire, Thank you for your kind comments.

I'm not sure exactly what kind of tangs, for sure they will not be on the larger side of the tang family. My tank is only 48 long so that would not be good to have a 16inch tang =)

Thinslis
10/09/2007, 11:13 AM
Today my two new baby Onyx clowns arrived and my first coral. I couldn't pass up the deal I got on the coral so I got it. A blue branching hammer. I'll get picks of both when I can.

Thinslis
10/09/2007, 05:45 PM
Ok, I think my full fish stocking list is as follows

Lawnmower Blenny
2x Onyx Clown
Six Line Wrasse
Blue yellow tail tang
Naso Tang
Foxface Rabbit

Possible additions
Lunar Wrasse
Scooter blenny

Thinslis
10/09/2007, 06:37 PM
Just ran some water tests

SG: .026
Nitrites: 0
Nitrate: 0
Ammonia: 0
PH: 8.2
Phosphate: 0
Alk: 2
Temp 80

oldreefer76
10/09/2007, 07:37 PM
Looks good alk is low though and don't see Calcium listed, not to mention there is no way you have 0 phosphate unless you are measuring it with something like a Hanna Coloromiter (spelling ?) and even then a 0 is because your nuisance algae is consuming it

Thinslis
10/10/2007, 04:15 PM
Ok here are some pics of the new tank inhabitants

These are Onyx clowns from Rod's Reef, they are too small at the moment for the general tank so I have them in a little breeder box for awhile
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0712.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0705.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0703.jpg

This is my new hammer coral, it started opening up after I turned on the lights.

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0713.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0716.jpg

MR PALM BEACH
10/10/2007, 04:39 PM
The clowns and hammer are looking good.

Thinslis
10/10/2007, 05:24 PM
Thank you, the hammer closed up again. I just did a massive algae harvest in the tank so I'm not suprised. I would say I probably got a good 60-70% of the algae out. I'm going to see what reduced light and the CUC can do to the rest over the next few days.

Thinslis
10/11/2007, 04:38 PM
/sigh.....

I did my first water change today.....

Let me first start with my plan for water changes.

I have a dirty water bin, standard trashcan on wheels, plan is to fill to certain level and wheel into bathroom and empty into bathtup

Saltwater mixing tank is close enough to pump directly back into sump to refill water removed

The challenge is making sure you return just as much water as removed to maintain salinity.

I'm sure smarter people then I have a better way of doing this but this is how I did it....

Mark a line in a 5 gallon bucket, remove 3 buckets worth of water from the sump filled each time to that line. Dump into dirty water container. Mark a new line in the dirty water container at the water level.

Mark current water level on Salt mixing tank, now draw the same number of buckets of clean water to the same line and dump each into the sump. Now mark a new water level on the mixing tank.

For the next water change I can draw water from the sump to the dirty water container to the water level, then refill from the mixing tank directly to the sump till the water level reaches the bottom line. Simple.

Now if I didn't dump salt water from the buckets all over my carpet that would have been a good thing =( And I didn't realize my skimmer would go NUTS with the new water causing all my skimmate to overflow back into my sump while I was in the bathroom emptying the dirty water =( and my poor display tank is full of microbubles from the water being dumped directly into the return section =(

/sigh.... Next time will be better right?.....

oldreefer76
10/11/2007, 06:43 PM
Hmm my skimmer or past skimmers have never gone nuts with new water they have always basicly gone to a no skim mode, but I have never ran a NW skimmer either, I have never done a water change with a sump and my first will be coming next week end and my plan is just to kill my skimmer and return pump and do a normal water change to suck up detrius and normal tank chores then fire it all back up when I am done, old school I know, but it will be what I know to do, and won't have to worry about sump levels and what not

Thinslis
10/13/2007, 05:48 PM
I was mesmerized by my clowns yesterday.

I was a little concerned that one of them was not taking well to the little breeder box. So I figured I would let them out and just turn off the Tunzes.

Well I shut off the Tunzes and reached in and took the lid off the breeder box and waited to see if they would swim out. It took probably a good 5mins for them to figure out the top was off. Then they swam out of the box but never more then a few inches away from the box. They would go out and swim under the box, or on either of the sides of the box, and then go right back into the box. They never once made an attempt to go over to the rocks or anywhere. After probably an hour or two of watching them I put the lid back on the box and turned the lights off for the night.

It was very interesting to watch =) I can't wait for them to get bigger so I can take the box out of the tank and replace it with a Nem. =) They will like the Nem much better then the little tank I am sure =)

Thinslis
10/16/2007, 11:45 AM
Woke up today to find my hammer nocked over by one of the mexican turbo snails. Both heads were in the sand and not happy about it. So I moved it up in the tank and secured it the best I could until I can get some super glue.

MR PALM BEACH
10/16/2007, 01:13 PM
Been there and woke to that also, those mexicans can be brutal and be some what of a pain In the a$$.

Thinslis
10/16/2007, 01:21 PM
I can't even say that they are doing all that great of a job on the hair algae, its still pretty bad. I'm going to be ordering a larger cleanup crew tomorrow, right now I only have about 20-30 snails and 5 crabs in there.

MR PALM BEACH
10/16/2007, 01:47 PM
I cant believe there not tearing through the green hair, maybe a larger clean up crew will be better, you do have pretty large tank so It wouldnt hurt.

Thinslis
10/16/2007, 04:54 PM
Ok here is the order I just placed

Nassarius Snail - Small 30
Trochus Snail 10
Cerith Snail 30
Margarita Snail 20
Scarlet Reef Hermit Crab 20
Skunk Cleaner Shrimp - Small 2
Peppermint Shrimp 3

kawicivic
10/16/2007, 08:41 PM
where did you order the ceriths from?

also why are you worried about the salinity changing if you add too much saltwater to the tank? the salinity shouldn't be off until evaporation occurs. Rather than worrying about whether or not I changed the correct amount of water I would rather just check salinity occasionally and adjust by topping off with fresh or saltwater. just my 2 cents.

My friend has a lawnmower blenny that has taken care of his hair algae problem... not sure if that is your cup of tea but worth a try if you like how they look and act.

Tank is looking good so keep up with the updates... I should have started a tank thread but it would have been sooo boring since I think cameras are a pain (now if I would have bought a laptop with a card reader then things might be different).

Thinslis
10/16/2007, 08:49 PM
I placed the order with thapetplace.com

I have a Lawnmower blenny but he can only do so much.

I'm not worried so much about salinity change as I am with consistency in the changes.

Krewlor
10/17/2007, 12:15 AM
Good luck with your HA. I recently went to battle with the stuff and on top of reducing feedings and reducing the light cycle, I purchased a Sea Hare from Marine Depot. Let me tell you that thing is a eating machine. It is shaped like a bowling pin and about 4 inches in length. From the time I dropped him into the tank, s/he rolled over and has not stopped eating for the last week. I am not saying they are a cure all for algae, but 100% of my HA is gone and I feel I now have the upper hand. I believe there are many different species sold but the one I purchased was an Aplysia punctata. Good luck, HTH.

Thinslis
10/20/2007, 07:50 AM
Ok a few updates:

Sadly I must report that one of the clowns is no longer with us. Or he is a great Hoodini. =(

Alas, Patron swims alone.
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0726.jpg

I'm going to wait about a month to replace the lost Onyx.

On a positive note, I added 90 snails, and 15 crabs (5 didn't survive shipping) 2 cleaner shrimp and 3 pepermint shrimp =) They seem to be making a dent in the algae. We'll see were we are in a week.

Added some more coral

Green Star Polyp
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0724.jpg

Purple Frogspawn
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0729.jpg

And agree with it or not, Aussie Acan (I won this at our reef club meeting last night so its not like I went out and intentionally bought this)
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0728.jpg

Also I won a Green Bubble tip Nem last night. I don't have a picture of him since he has moved him self behind some rocks for now.

I never win anything at raffles, these two make up for all the $$ I've spent over the years on raffle tickets =)

Also I moved the Branching hammer to a better spot in the tank.
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0730.jpg

I'll try to get a full tank shot later.

kawicivic
10/20/2007, 08:02 AM
FTS... gives me something to look forward to when i get off work!!

Thinslis
10/20/2007, 03:30 PM
Here is a Full tank shot.
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0731.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0732.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0733.jpg

And the Nem has moved into a spot where I can get a shot of part of him.
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0736.jpg

MR PALM BEACH
10/20/2007, 03:35 PM
Sorry to hear about your clown hopefully It will turn up and come out of hideing, but I like the pic with the one clown, looks like Its wondering the big blue lol. Looks like your green hair Is getting more under control and getting less by the day.

Thinslis
10/21/2007, 02:41 PM
Ok I got a bug up my rear today and redid my aquascaping

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0742.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0740.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0741.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0739.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0745.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0743.jpg

Close up of the Nem
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0738.jpg

uncleant
10/21/2007, 05:14 PM
i think your tank is looking really good. i like the new setup

oldreefer76
10/21/2007, 05:21 PM
looks like you got a good handle on the hair algae and I will be wanting a frag of that Aussie Acan when you frag it, you lucky dog win 2 high end items at the club raffle

Thinslis
10/21/2007, 06:14 PM
Thanks guys.

I've done a good bit of hair algae harvesting myself. The rest I think will be up to the clean up crew.

As for the Acan frag, I'm crossing my fingers that it will survive and grow. Then if I can frag it that would be great =)

I'm going to give it another few days before making any more changes to the aquascaping but right now I think there are a couple rocks I want to move around to put the finishing touches on.

oldreefer76
10/21/2007, 07:45 PM
just let everything settle in for a while now and mature before making any more changes

mattyice
10/21/2007, 09:16 PM
i have two frags of aussie acans, both i got from salty and they are doing great in my tank...they love the wave from my vortech, the one is a deep red with steel blue center, the other is like the one you have

they are a very easy LPS to take care of IME and they love being fed...for future reference

BTW that aquascaping looks awesome i wonder how you were able to get it looking so good lol

check out my build thread, my tank gets here tomorrow and then i get to start on the stand

Thinslis
10/22/2007, 11:40 AM
Those pillars were a pain to be honest =) Trying to get them to line up so the weight was centered, then drilling the holes, then getting the rods in and cut.... I'm just glad its over with. I wish the ledges were more pronounced but oh well, can't have everything.

On the bright side, you can only see a couple small sections of the nylon rod, but you have to look real close to see it.

Thinslis
10/23/2007, 03:45 PM
Ok todays Paramaters:

Temp: 79
NO3: 0
NO2: 0
NH4: 0
PH: 8.6
PO4: .1ppm
Alk: 2.5ppm
CA: (don't have a good calc test kit, the one I have didn't get a reading)
Salinity: .026

I have decided to increase my light schedule by 1 hour to the following schedule

11:00am - Attinics on
12:00pm - Daylights on
7:00pm - Daylights off
8:00pm - Attinics off

My next purchase will be 2 1w LED moonlights which will run from 8:00pm - 10:00am

Here are some more pics for the pic junkies =)
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0759.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0760.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0761.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0746.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0747.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0748.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0749.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0754.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0753.jpg

I found Patron in the sump last night, so I put him in the fuge... this morning I woke up to find him back in the display tank... in one piece thank heavens. So back in the box he goes.
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0758.jpg

Thinslis
10/29/2007, 10:07 AM
I picked up a FoxFace rabbit fish on Friday, he seems to be very shy, likes to hide ina cave in the center of the tank. I've only seen him out and about a couple times. I'll grab some pictures when ever I can. =(

Thinslis
10/29/2007, 03:01 PM
Placed an order today for Maxijet 1200 (need more flow in my salt mixing tank), Moonlights!!!!! (I miss the night lights), and a Salifert Calc test kit (my current calc test kit is junk)

MR PALM BEACH
10/29/2007, 03:08 PM
Thats how my foxface was in the begining, allmost like a little scarty cat. After a couple of days It was out and about all day long. Now I can even feed It from my hand. Put some algae strips out for It to eat they love that stuff.

MR PALM BEACH
10/29/2007, 03:11 PM
O and the tank Is coming along real nice.

Thinslis
10/29/2007, 03:27 PM
Thank you, someday... I might actually be able to take the step ladder out of the living room =) LOL for now it has a permanent spot on the left side of the tank.

I went looking for my pack of Algae strips last night and couldn't find them =( I'll have to run out to Petco tomorrow and pick some up. For now he has been nipping at the algae that is still in the tank.

I need to get a phos reactor soon. I'll also be picking up a canister filter to run carbon once I can find one from a local reefer cheap.

Oh I also had to throw in a 150w heater this morning, I woke up to find the tank down to 77 degrees, the house temp goes down to 66 at night so the single 300w heater couldn't keep up. It is now back to 79.

Thinslis
10/31/2007, 10:09 AM
Ok I think I might revise my stocking list as follows

Lawnmower blenny (already have)
Foxface rabbit fish (already have)
4x Onyx clown (have 1 of 4)
Sixline wrasse
Hippo tang
(some other tang)
(some other blenny or jawfish)
GBTA (Already have)
2x Other type of compatable Nems

What do you think?

kawicivic
10/31/2007, 11:47 AM
I vote for jawfish over another blenny. My jawfish was a must have and I have no complaints so far. He is active and has completed one home and is working on building another. This is good to see since he started living completely opposite of where I wanted him to go (always happens), but his second burrow is in the perfect spot.

Thinslis
11/01/2007, 05:53 PM
Ok, my 1000 post on Reef Central. I will use it to post some updated pictures.

The FoxFace has come out to join the party!!!!
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0769.jpg

He is swimming around and enjoying himself now!

My new Monti cap frag
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0767.jpg
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0766.jpg

On a side note, I have moved my Patron the clown fish to my 10g hosptial tank. I figure that will give him some more swimming room then that acrylic box he was in. Also it frees up my glass cleaning mag, the glass is in need of some serious cleaning.

I think I will give patrone 2 weeks in the hospital tank before I buy another Onyx, I'll be on vacation the week of the 19th so I will be home to place an order for another clown at that time. I still don't have an answer though regarding 4 clowns or two clowns. I know its best to add them in pairs, but what about 4 at one time?

Enjoy... I hope someone is still paying attention =)

Thinslis
11/05/2007, 09:46 AM
My sand issues continue. Over the weekend I noticed considerable sand duneing on the left side of the tank, it was almost down to bare bottom in the corner.

I have changed my Tunzes to point directly at eachother across the tank and changed to Sequence 2. So now both streams are on at 30% all the time and alternate pulseing to 60%

The Nem is getting a lot of flow and I would expect him to move in the near future but for now he is still extending and his tips have some bubbles but not as much as before.

If this doesn't resolve the issue I'm going to have to consider replacing the streams with something else..... /sigh

oldreefer76
11/05/2007, 07:11 PM
It will take time and patience to get the streams aimed just right along with controller settings, you may also want to try putting the streams in different locations, also a bare spot is not the end of the world, I was at FdFiremedics and he gets a bare spot here and there and the tank still looks great

phil519
11/05/2007, 07:19 PM
typically clownfish will have a strict hierarchy of the male/female and then the rest of them being sub-adult females. So if you were to get them, I'd try my best to get one large one, and the remaining 3 smaller. It'd be ideal if you could get the pair first and then add 2 smaller ones to serve as sub-adults.

I'm sure folks on the clownfish forum may have more to contribute. With a tank your size though - they may be fine just all the same size and letting them sort out the hierarchy themselves.

Thinslis
11/11/2007, 09:26 AM
Here is my new clown, so now I have 2 again. The new one is much bigger then the first one (Patron). So far they have been avoiding eachother mostly, maybe today they will start to get to know eachother =)
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/DSCN0790.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/DSCN0787.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/DSCN0788.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/DSCN0794.jpg

And some Zoas also from Rod's Reef
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/DSCN0800.jpg

I've concluded that I need a dehumidifier.

Thinslis
11/16/2007, 09:08 AM
The dehumidifier has jumped to the top of the priority list. High humidity is causing some mold issues in a few places. I got it all cleaned up last night and will be picking up a dehumidifier after work tonight.

Drag Racer
11/16/2007, 01:55 PM
very nice. read start to finish today. hows the hair agle problem im going through that right now with my 1.5 year old tank

Thinslis
11/16/2007, 02:02 PM
Thank you Drag Racer. The hair algae is gone, but I still have some other nucience algae. My Phosphates are reading low but I got a Phosphate reactor just in case (can't hurt). I think my current problem is steming from old bulbs in my light. Old bulbs can result in algae growth.

Thinslis
11/16/2007, 03:21 PM
Another C-SEA club meeting tonight, here is a shot of the Nem and Acan I won at last months meeting.

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0807.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0802.jpg

Notice the differance in size of the coral from the day after I got it?
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0754.jpg

MR PALM BEACH
11/16/2007, 03:52 PM
Nice looking frags you got there, hope you get a nice large growth rate out of them.......then again dont we all. Looking good.:rollface:

slider162
11/16/2007, 06:51 PM
I picked up this unit last year. It is quiet and does a really nice job. You can find it on Amazon.

Soleus Air CFM-40 E 40-Pint Dehumidifier with Humidistat

Thinslis
11/17/2007, 07:33 AM
Mr Beach, always a pleasure thank you for your comments. I hope to get a new frag tank soon(ish) so I can frag off a small piece or two for growth / frag / sale and leave the one in the main tank alone after that.

Slider, Thank you for the suggestion. However my situation had reached a critical level (I had mold growing on a couple walls). So I went to Best Buy and picked up a Fridgidair 50-pint unit.

Last night was the clubs frag workshop. I must admit it was less hands on than I had thought but I guess they were not prepaired for the larger then expected turnout. It was still an enjoyable event and I got to see how the corals were fragged, I just didn't get to do the fragging myself. I will post pictures when I can but the list of frags I got are as follows: Aussie Acan (3 good sized heads), 3x2" piece of Zoas, A leather of some sort, Arco, Birds nest (one large piece that I won in the raffle at the end), Sea Fan, and another piece that I am still waiting for someone to remind me of the name (I know they told me but I can't remember).

I realized when I got home that I was missing a key component to getting some of these smaller frags into my tank.... No frag disks. So I had to find some holes in the rock to place the bits into until I can find someplace to get Frag disks locally.

My other challenge will be placement. I'm trying to remember the rules, is it you don't want Softies and SPS near eachother? or was it LPS and SPS? Anyone?

Thanks, I'll try to get some pictures when the lights come on, I don't think my moonlight shots are going to turn out =(

Thinslis
11/17/2007, 07:33 AM
Mr Beach, always a pleasure thank you for your comments. I hope to get a new frag tank soon(ish) so I can frag off a small piece or two for growth / frag / sale and leave the one in the main tank alone after that.

Slider, Thank you for the suggestion. However my situation had reached a critical level (I had mold growing on a couple walls). So I went to Best Buy and picked up a Fridgidair 50-pint unit.

Last night was the clubs frag workshop. I must admit it was less hands on than I had thought but I guess they were not prepaired for the larger then expected turnout. It was still an enjoyable event and I got to see how the corals were fragged, I just didn't get to do the fragging myself. I will post pictures when I can but the list of frags I got are as follows: Aussie Acan (3 good sized heads), 3x2" piece of Zoas, A leather of some sort, Arco, Birds nest (one large piece that I won in the raffle at the end), Sea Fan, and another piece that I am still waiting for someone to remind me of the name (I know they told me but I can't remember).

I realized when I got home that I was missing a key component to getting some of these smaller frags into my tank.... No frag disks. So I had to find some holes in the rock to place the bits into until I can find someplace to get Frag disks locally.

My other challenge will be placement. I'm trying to remember the rules, is it you don't want Softies and SPS near eachother? or was it LPS and SPS? Anyone?

Thanks, I'll try to get some pictures when the lights come on, I don't think my moonlight shots are going to turn out =(

Thinslis
11/20/2007, 08:38 AM
Here are the pics as promised

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0829.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0828.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0827.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0825.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0824.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0826.jpg

kawicivic
11/20/2007, 08:51 AM
LPS you want to give plenty of room because it has a tendency to extend sweeper and feeder tentacles which will battle with nearby corals. Depending on the softies you may want to keep some of them away from sps too but its not the issue of sweeper tentacles, just the tendency to overpower.

oldreefer76
11/20/2007, 06:31 PM
Brian,
Tank is looking great, was a little disappointed myself in the frag workshop but did come home with 11 frags and my Acan had 6 heads ( guess it helped to know the fragger) describe the frag you forgot the name of, where in the chaos you got it ?
Gary

Thinslis
01/13/2008, 09:08 PM
So its been awhile since my last update, here we go.

I'm fighting an algae outbreak at the moment. I think the year + old bulbs in the light plus some high phosphates have cuased the problem. I've got new bulbs on order and I've hooked up some reactors for Phosban and some Carbon. Also got some new fish.

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0841.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0851.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0853.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0864.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0833.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l112/pokinu_EQ/New%20Tank%20Build/DSCN0835.jpg

Beenalongtime79
04/07/2008, 03:37 PM
Nice tank! Hope you get past that algae outbreak.

Thinslis
04/07/2008, 04:10 PM
LOL... Thanks for the post. No I never did get the algae problem resolved. I think it may have been from the sand. You can put me down as a supporter of Arganite reef sand. Lesson learned. This tank is offically dead and pretty much sold. So far the pumps, tank and light are all sale pending.

I am taking a break from reefing for the summer. My surviving live stock has been sent to a friends house. If I do set up another tank it will be in the fall and it will be something smaller like a 40g breeder. I think for that tank I'll want to go with something like a clown / Nem tank. Maybe a few corals in it but mostly just clowns and Nems.

Take care and thank you all for following along! It was a great journey and lessons learned.

MrRoo
04/07/2008, 04:18 PM
Wow I read the whole thread right now and I just learned you quit! Why? The algae got too bad? You spent so much time and money to quit 6 months later :(

Thinslis
04/07/2008, 04:52 PM
The algae problem is part of it. What isn't mentioned is a major ice storm hit the North East a month or so ago. We lost power sometime during the night, my guess would be right after I went to sleep. I woke up and the tank had dropped to 68, only 2 fish survived... my clowns.

The other issue was the mosture in the house. This was a major problem. Even after I bought a dehumidifer (which ran 24x7) I was finding mold and mildew in corners of the house. This was a major lesson learned.

Mr. Roo, I have not quit my friend... no sir. I'm taking some time off for the summer to enjoy my Harley and come fall.. I have a 40g breeder sitting in the sump room ready to go. I've already started to visualize how I want to drill it... build the over flow... what pieces of live rock i'm going to use.... New build thread my friend.... a new thread indeed =)

This is not good bye... no... its a See you soon....

Take care all and thank you for your support.