Johnny C's 57G Illuminata Rimless Reef [Archive]

Johnny C

12/28/2009, 12:16 AM

Hey Everyone...

I have been in the hobby for about a year and a half, and have learned a LOT in such a short amount of time. I originally owned a 30G Miracles Rimless aquarium, but the dimensions were unfit for what I was trying to accomplish and I needed more space for coral to grow. The new setup break-down is below:

-57 Gallon (36x18x21'') Oceanic Illuminata
-700GPH Glass~Holes Overflow Kit
-Custom Oak Stand
-Three Chambered Acrylic Sump w/ Frag Section
-6x24w Catalina T5's w/ (2) 460nm Powerbrite LEDs
-Skimmer (Still Undecided)
-(2) Vortech MP10 Powerheads
-Tsumani AT1 Auto Topoff
-Calcium Supplimentation: Undecided
-20lbs. Figi Live Rock / 20lbs. Figi Pink Sand
-More to Come!

There will be a few goals/methods involved with this setup that I plan on accomlishing:

-Overall Simplicity (Less is More)
-SPS Dominated, though Mixed Reef
-High Quality Equipment
-Stability

I don't have any build pictures yet, but here's one of my old 30G Tank:

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/83c23638.jpg

I'll be sure to update frequently with lots of pictures. Thanks & Enjoy! :)

SawdustInTank

12/28/2009, 12:30 AM

Subscribed!

Eel-byte

12/28/2009, 05:22 AM

Nice looking tank, more pics please.

sjj729

12/28/2009, 12:40 PM

Could you tell me the dimensions of the overflow on the Illuminata tanks?

Johnny C

12/29/2009, 01:04 AM

Thanks for the replies! I'm not sure on the stock oceanic overflow size, but IMO it's way oversized and takes up too much room on an already modest-sized tank. I chose to do it a little different, as you can see below in my illustration. The overflow I chose (Glass~Holes 700GPH Kit) is about 6x2x6'' and takes up virtually no room.

Here's a paint sketch of the setup... will follow-up as things progress.

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/untitled-8.jpg

mavjoy

12/29/2009, 01:34 AM

I'm also in the process of setting up my 57 Illuminata rimless tank. I went with a ATB 840 V1.5 skimmer with mine. I'll be following your build:thumbsup:

Johnny C

12/29/2009, 02:07 AM

I'm definatly jealous... that is a beautiful skimmer. :D

Ideally I think for now I'm gonna run either the Bubble Magus NA6 or NA7. I'd like to get the ATB/BK-Mini 160 but funds are a bit tight so I'm gonna see how perform for the time being.

Johnny C

12/29/2009, 02:07 AM

For those interested, here's a few shots of the stand being assembled. Hopefully it'll be finished later this week! :)

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/IMG_0107.jpg
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/IMG_0112.jpg
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/IMG_0111.jpg

mavjoy

12/29/2009, 08:59 PM

The Bubble Magus is a great skimmer for the price. I've seen it in action at one of the LFS here and it looks very impressive. Stand looks great!

Johnny C

12/31/2009, 07:39 PM

Got an e-mail from my friend with an update on the stand progress. I am VERY impressed with his work, it should be done this weekend! :smokin:

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/IMG_0122.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/IMG_0123.jpg

Also finished drilling the tank and installed the overflow/returns. Picture quality sucks but it's better than nothing. Can you see the overflow? ;)

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/IMG00038-20091230-2150.jpg

More to come...

PS- I'm having a REALLY tough time deciding what skimmer to get. It's down to the Bubble Magus NAC6 or the Reef Octopus NW-150. I'm definatly going to get one of these, just not sure which. Would really appriciate some opinion(s).

theyammieguy

12/31/2009, 08:05 PM

subscribed.

Eel Freak

12/31/2009, 08:12 PM

I love those tanks... We have one at an LFS here and I love it.

Personally, I'd spend the extra $$ and get the Reef Octopus Extreme 160 vs. The NW-150. Our LFS runs all Octopus skimmers and so do I. The extemes are a lot better than the NWs, but this is just my opinion. Either way, they are still excellent skimmers!

Subscribed! ;)

theyammieguy

12/31/2009, 08:19 PM

Got a picture of the rear of the tank with the overflow installed?

Johnny C

12/31/2009, 09:05 PM

Thanks guys. I don't have any more pictures at the moment but I promise more soon!

I love those tanks... We have one at an LFS here and I love it.

Personally, I'd spend the extra $$ and get the Reef Octopus Extreme 160 vs. The NW-150. Our LFS runs all Octopus skimmers and so do I. The extemes are a lot better than the NWs, but this is just my opinion. Either way, they are still excellent skimmers!

Subscribed! ;)
At the LFS I frequent they run both the NW-150 and the OctX-160. They are both in heavily stocked ~120g systems. What I can tell you is that the NW-150 can run circles around the xtreme. Why? I don't know. There aren't any variables that would hinder the xtreme either. Also if you look at the FS forums, you see the Xtremes up for grabs constantly vs the NW-150 which rarely goes up for sale. Just my two cents! :)

Eel Freak

12/31/2009, 09:55 PM

Thanks guys. I don't have any more pictures at the moment but I promise more soon!

At the LFS I frequent they run both the NW-150 and the OctX-160. They are both in heavily stocked ~120g systems. What I can tell you is that the NW-150 can run circles around the xtreme. Why? I don't know. There aren't any variables that would hinder the xtreme either. Also if you look at the FS forums, you see the Xtremes up for grabs constantly vs the NW-150 which rarely goes up for sale. Just my two cents! :)

Did they mesh-mod it? My extreme's performance drastically improved with four layers of mesh...

Johnny C

12/31/2009, 10:27 PM

Did they mesh-mod it? My extreme's performance drastically improved with four layers of mesh...
No. Even so, a good skimmer shouldn't need mesh mods to run good. It took almost 10 days to get the cup 3/4 full. I'm not saying you are wrong, it's just not for me! :fish1:

Eel Freak

12/31/2009, 10:30 PM

No. Even so, a good skimmer shouldn't need mesh mods to run good. It took almost 10 days to get the cup 3/4 full. I'm not saying you are wrong, it's just not for me! :fish1:

That's a good point... Never thought of it like that! Well, sorry for hijacking the thread briefly here.... Looking forward to the pics! ;)

theyammieguy

01/01/2010, 05:06 PM

How do you have your return line plumbed?

lordofthereef

01/01/2010, 07:15 PM

Hey that looks fantastic. Keep us updated.

Johnny C

01/01/2010, 09:18 PM

How do you have your return line plumbed?
I don't yet. I'm gonna run soft-plumbing to a SCWD and run that to the returns on each end. I'll snap a pic when I do.

Hey that looks fantastic. Keep us updated.
Why thank you! Lots of pictures/info will be posted in a couple of days! :D

fox2589

01/01/2010, 09:21 PM

looks awesome!i just got my gl*******s 700gph kit as well..did you use the short or tall bulkhead?any drill/silicone pics for my reference by chance?thanks-drew

Johnny C

01/01/2010, 09:26 PM

looks awesome!i just got my glass~holes 700gph kit as well..did you use the short or tall bulkhead?any drill/silicone pics for my reference by chance?thanks-drew
You will love the kit and especially the small size of the box. I used the standard 1.5'' bulkhead that came with the kit when I bought it. Unfortunatly I don't have any pictures of the drilling as I did it quickly before I went out. Drilling is VERY easy providing you use the wood guide GH provides. Another very helpful thing is to have a drill with a level on it so you can go in straight (I found this out the hard way haha). Don't press on the drill, just let it do it's thing! Hope this helps! :)

theyammieguy

01/01/2010, 09:32 PM

A very humorous video on how to do it.
http://reefercentral.com/install.html

fox2589

01/01/2010, 09:59 PM

thanks guys!!-drew

E.intheC

01/03/2010, 12:08 AM

this tank has amazing potential. :cool:

Johnny C

01/03/2010, 02:56 AM

Not a lot to update today, but the stand is now fully assembled. I went with a medium oak finish to match the rest of my bedroom furniture. The interior is completely lined in a waterproof bathroom material and caulked in case of a sump leak.

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/IMG_0126.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/IMG_0131.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/IMG_0128.jpg

I'm very excited to get this thing up and running, hopefully in the next week or two! :D

PS- I've been going back/fourth trying to decide what skimmer I'm going to run. I finally decided on the Octopus NW-150. It's rated for almost double the system volume (~75g) and has an awesome reputation all over the forum so I think it'll be perfect for me. :)

fox2589

01/03/2010, 03:02 AM

stands looking snazzy!-Drew

Johnny C

01/07/2010, 09:26 PM

Well, unfortunatly my sump is taking a lot longer than expected to get here, holding up the project. Although I'm kinda bummed I guess it gives me a few days to get the light hung and finish the prep work. Here's a sneak peek of it though, thanks to Jon @ Advanced Acrylics for hookin' it up. :)

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/BiyjecgWkKGrHqEH-DsEs71GDL71BLQve5H.jpg

mavjoy

01/07/2010, 10:34 PM

Nice and clean looking sump. Is that a 30 gallon?

boxer385

01/07/2010, 10:39 PM

i have a similar stand take a look, this is for a rimless tank 36x24x20

http://i462.photobucket.com/albums/qq347/boxer385/builtthread003.jpg

jrwap

01/07/2010, 10:50 PM

That looks amazing!

-JRW

Johnny C

01/07/2010, 11:24 PM

Nice and clean looking sump. Is that a 30 gallon?
Thanks! The display is 57G and the sump (when running) holds about 13G.

I have a similar stand take a look, this is for a rimless tank 36x24x20
Beautiful piece of furniture and yes, they are quite similar!

That looks amazing! -JRW
Why thanks!

My corals are looking pretty unhappy in the holding tank they're in so I'm VERY anxious to get this up and running as soon as my sump is delivered. Unless something unexpected comes about I'm aiming to have this fully assembled and running by the end of next week. Stay Tuned! :)

ooja3k

01/08/2010, 12:24 AM

Definitely following this build! I will be doing something very similar after school is out and i have a job!!

i like the diy overflow from GH instead of the massive option from oceanic.

magnoliarichj

01/08/2010, 02:06 AM

im from buffalo!

Johnny C

01/08/2010, 02:24 AM

Nice Rich! Next time your in town, stop by. We can hit up Mighty for a taco and some loganberry! ;)

magnoliarichj

01/08/2010, 02:49 AM

mmmmmmmmmmmm loganberryyyyyy......

gmneil

01/08/2010, 03:24 AM

cali the tank and stand looks sweet in person, cant wait to see it up and running..

also the oct extremes are very good, but they are very touchy the slightest change in water level can throw them off. but if you find the sweet spot they perform great.

theyammieguy

01/08/2010, 06:14 AM

Looks real good.

Johnny C

01/11/2010, 10:03 PM

Well, I have some unfortunate news to report.

Selling my previous system was crutial in order to fund this upgrade. When breaking down the 30G last week, I emptied the water and entire livestock from my 30G into a temporary 40BR holding tank that was borrowed from a friend here on URS. This was just before New Years.

Ever since then, my corals have been declining in health/color and I have been testing like crazy; ALL parameters were spot on. I did everything (water changes, added carbon/gfo, started skimming heavier, etc) and it seemed to help a bit. Today I woke up and almost half of my corals (all SPS and half of my LPS) were dead. All of my surviving corals (zoanthids aside) are in very poor health and most all lost a lot of color. Note- other than a few common (non-hazardous) flatworms, there are NO known pests in my system and I'm positive of it.

Now... my guess? I think something harmful was used in the 40BR before I got it, because when cleaning I noticed a chalky-brown substance coming off of the glass. Copper tested non-existant but I didn't have a chance to test until after a 75% water change was done, which probably cleared most of it out. Whatever it was, it didn't like corals. Lesson learned; don't ever put livestock into a used tank without knowing the history.

I'd like to thank Randy at ARC for allowing me to bring some of my corals into the shop in an effort to revive them.

Tomarrow the 57 is (knock on wood) going up and I'm going to use ALL new water/sand. So well I'm VERY pumped about the upgrade, it's bittersweet knowing that half of my corals didn't make it into the new tank. Bummer.

Hopefully I'll have better news to report tomarrow and maybe some build pics... will update soon!

pisces4u

01/11/2010, 10:59 PM

Wow Jon, sorry to hear about the coral losses. If you end up in Rochester anytime soon, LMK and you can raid my frag tank.

galoot

01/11/2010, 11:03 PM

Good luck with the upgrade. I'll be following you shortly!!!!

Electrobes

01/12/2010, 07:34 AM

Beautiful work so far, I am jealous of your building skills!

Johnny C

01/16/2010, 04:38 AM

Wow Jon, sorry to hear about the coral losses. If you end up in Rochester anytime soon, LMK and you can raid my frag tank.
Thanks Aaron. I missed you the other day but I'll hopefully be out there next month for the swap. I'll definatly stop by!

Good luck with the upgrade. I'll be following you shortly!!!!
Thanks, sounds great!

Beautiful work so far, I am jealous of your building skills!
Don't be jealous, I had the stand made by a friend. I too wish I had those skills!

Well, after 48 hours and LOTS of help from friends, the 57 is up and running. I think I have a hex on me because there were about 5 times when something came up that almost prolonged the setup. Luckily I got everything figured out and got it done. I've still got a ton of work to do and a few pieces of equipment to add, but the aquascape is done and hopefully the remaining corals will soon be transferred.

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/illuminata.jpg

Please don't mind the cords and random frags everywhere. I just threw them in the tank and haven't placed them yet. The aquascaping goal was to be minimalistic with a hint of "bonsai", and I think we achieved it quite well (thanks Dan)!

I'll have more pictures up in a few days once everything settles in and gets mounted. :)[/QUOTE]

SawdustInTank

01/16/2010, 07:40 AM

Good to hear the transfer is complete. Sorry to hear about the losses though. I love to see minimalist/bonsai inspired tanks. How do you like the Power Brites so far? Keep it coming........

Johnny C

01/17/2010, 08:04 PM

Good to hear the transfer is complete. Sorry to hear about the losses though. I love to see minimalist/bonsai inspired tanks. How do you like the Power Brites so far? Keep it coming........
Thanks, I'm glad the transfer is over too! I've owned the Powerbrite LEDS for awhile actually. I like them a lot because they add a bit of shimmer and enhance coral coloration. Here's a picture of one of my most prized corals under actinic T5 + LEDs. :fun4:

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/contestpic.jpg

Johnny C

01/19/2010, 09:40 PM

The quality is sub-par (getting a new camera very soon), but here's a few pictures...

Tank & Stand-
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/fullshot.jpg

FTS-
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/FTSJan19-1.jpg

My fish in his new home!
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/blacktang.jpg

Very exciting addition...
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/newplate-2.jpg

E.intheC

01/22/2010, 08:50 PM

looks like you're making great progress, despite the coral losses. (Bummer to hear that by the way) .. How do you like the 2x mp10 choice versus 1 mp20 or mp40?

iamwrasseman

01/22/2010, 09:25 PM

thumbs up ! i really like it ,the stand looks awesome and cool tank .i even like the tang too .

Johnny C

01/22/2010, 10:02 PM

looks like you're making great progress, despite the coral losses. (Bummer to hear that by the way) .. How do you like the 2x mp10 choice versus 1 mp20 or mp40?
Slowly but surely, and thank you! To be honest, I'm only running one MP10 at the moment. Coupled with my Maxijet Utility Return Pump on a SCWD, it's definatly enough flow for the time being. In reality, I can't turn the MP10 up more than 3/4 because my LPS gets irritated. I imagine I may need another once the SPS additions become large, but for the time being it's more than enough.

thumbs up ! i really like it ,the stand looks awesome and cool tank .i even like the tang too .
Thanks Bud! I know some people probably have mixed feelings having a tang in a 57G, but he is very small (about the size of a half dollar) and I have a special place for him when he grows. He's very happy in my tank though! :)

iamwrasseman

01/22/2010, 10:35 PM

i like your cabinet ,looks great .i build them for a living and it looks top notch !

cman_pogey

01/22/2010, 10:46 PM

Wow! That tank is just simply stunning!! I am reeeeally digging the minimalist look, the entire tank is really quite amazing, and sorry to hear about the coral loss, but i'd say you definately made up for it ;)

Johnny C

01/23/2010, 06:15 PM

GQuinn

02/06/2010, 03:58 PM

How do you like the overflow? How much room is required behind the tank? How is it's noise level? BTW, nice set-up.

Gary

Johnny C

02/09/2010, 12:06 AM

I haven't updated this thread in a bit, but tonight a friend let me borrow his dSLR and I finally got some decent shots. :smokin:

A few updates before the pictures:

-My corals are doing a LOT better and have colored up tremendously!
-I added a twelve-line wrasse and a spotted manderin.
-I'm dealing with some pesky red flatworms, trying to go about removing them the natural way before resorting to FW Exit.

Also, I've decided to upgrade my off-brand T5 fixture to either the new Tek Elite or an ATI Powermodule. I'm not sure which route I'll go yet. I did however decide to order an Apex Lite through my LFS. The cords all over my sump give me a headache and I'm sure my Grandma will appreciate all of the old light timers I won't be using anymore! :lmao: And on that note...

Full Tank Shot 2/8/10:

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/fixed.jpg

'Poinsetta' People Eaters:
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/ARCzoo1.jpg

WNY Famous Todd's Torch:
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/toddstorch.jpg

Hungry Plate Coral!
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/plate-1.jpg

My Black Tang, Midnight:
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/blacktang-1.jpg

Psychadelic Manderin:
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/closeupmanderin.jpg

That's all for now, will update again soon. Let me know what ya think! :beachbum:

Johnny C

02/09/2010, 12:10 AM

How do you like the overflow? How much room is required behind the tank? How is it's noise level? BTW, nice set-up. Gary
Sorry for the delayed response! I can't say anything bad about the overflow, I love it. I've owned Glass-Hole overflow kits in the past and they have never let me down. Another reason why I chose to install it was because the customer service the company provided when I ran into a few snags. They ended up sending me a BRAND NEW kit free of charge!

Seeing that it's a 1.5'' drain, you definatly need about 4'' of room behind the tank. The overflow is pretty quiet and would probably be silent if I had a more powerful return pump. Hope this helps!

Johnny C

02/14/2010, 01:22 AM

I've been dealing with these stupid reddish/orange flatworms for a few months now and they got to the point where it was affecting my coral. I dosed some FW Exit tonight and wow does this stuff work well!

Just finished doing a 10% water change and changed the carbon in my BRS reactor. This is just a portion of what I siphoned out...

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/flatworms.jpg

Hopefully I'll notice a big improvement and no ill-effects. Only time will tell! :)

philosophish

02/14/2010, 01:41 AM

Sorry to hear about the flatworm invasion.

Do you dip your corals before introducing them to the tank?

Johnny C

02/14/2010, 02:09 AM

Eh, it happens to the best of us. I dip 75% of frags before adding but sometimes getting a pest or two is inevitable IMO.

Johnny C

02/16/2010, 02:40 AM

I'm back to report that the Flatworm Exit worked well with no ill effects (well, besides a wrasse with a tummy ache)! ;)

Gawain1974

02/16/2010, 02:48 AM

gmneil

02/16/2010, 02:50 AM

tank looked great today, i love that orange plate coral.. i say keep the led's.. lol

Hungriee

02/16/2010, 04:56 PM

very nice Poinsetta' People Eaters. What kind of rocks are you using?

Johnny C

02/16/2010, 09:57 PM

Hey Cali, here's proof that I do get out of the Lounge every now and then. ;)

I really like your stand, it looks awesome! I'm glad you had good luck with the FWE and had no ill effects. I had a serious infestation about two years ago that was a royal pita. I finally broke down and used FWE and had great results (no flatworms since).
You... out of the lounge? Geez, I must be special! :lmao: Thanks for the compliments! FWE is a great product, glad I got the cajones to dose it.
tank looked great today, i love that orange plate coral.. i say keep the led's.. lol
Thanks bud, I'm glad you stopped by. Treat that Copperband with love or I might have to snatch 'em from ya! ;)
very nice Poinsetta' People Eaters. What kind of rocks are you using?
Gracias! :) All of my rock is 'premium Figi' that I bought from an established setup.

chrishet

02/17/2010, 01:48 PM

subscribed

VoodooMach

02/27/2010, 04:03 PM

Man I should have got the non-RR version and did that with the glass-holes overflow. I like their products, I've used them in the past on nanos. The megaflow overflow box takes up so much space, its annoying.

Johnny C

03/08/2010, 12:24 AM

subscribed
Thanks! :)

Man I should have got the non-RR version and did that with the glass-holes overflow. I like their products, I've used them in the past on nanos. The megaflow overflow box takes up so much space, its annoying.
Aftermarket overflow or not, they are awesome tanks. I'm in love with the rimless design and Oceanic did a great job!

Johnny C

03/08/2010, 12:28 AM

I thought I'd update this thread with a cool FTS that I got yesterday. The tank is finally starting to settle in and all of my corals are fully recovered from the transfer-tank mishap back when I started. I added a baby Copperband Butterfly but unfortunatly he died within 24 hours. I love this fish and may try again in the future, but with the low success rate maybe not. I'll soon be replacing my off-brand 6x24w T5 for either a 36'' ATI or Tek Elite fixture (both being 6x39w). Thoughts on which?

Anywho, here's the FTS. Enjoy! :fish1:

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/reeftank.jpg

VtheMaestro

03/20/2010, 03:24 PM

solRNY

03/20/2010, 04:05 PM

hi there! beautiful full tank picture :)
very nice todd torch, curious to how many heads is there?

E.intheC

03/20/2010, 05:42 PM

lookin' great dude. :thumbsup:

fishsuse29

03/21/2010, 01:30 AM

How do you find the light coverage with a 24'' fixture over a 36'' tank? Im thinking of doing the same thing when I upgrade from my 22g to a 40br this summer.

asl4me76

03/21/2010, 05:39 AM

alphaferret

03/21/2010, 06:43 AM

nice build! Love the GH overflow. Coral colors are very nice even w/ off brand lite set up. What kind or return pump are you planning or will you stay w/ the maxijet?

Mr. Right

03/21/2010, 09:24 AM

I don't know about the 6x36watt ATI. With my 4x36watt Sunpower on my oceanic I have to shade my war coral favia because I started bleaching it in the sand. Also Joe the coral and my orange digi are turned a little white also. The digi is the highest up and joe was half way down in the middle of the tank. My bulb combo was Blue +, GE 6,000K,Blue +, Blue special. I changed the GE for an Auqa sun in hopes of less par. I cut down my day lights 1.5 already, I might go with 2 hrs putting my daylight time @ only 6hrs total. My actinics are on 9 hrs right now. IMO 4x36 ATI is MORE THAN ENOUGH for any SPS in your tank.

chaseg89

04/02/2010, 11:10 AM

I have been following your thread, but have just registered so I can finally post replies. I am also planning on a Oceanic Illuminata so watching your build has been great. The only difference is that I am probably going with the manufacturer overflow. btw love the black tang I think that they are beautiful. Keep up the good work cant wait to see more.

Johnny C

04/02/2010, 11:36 AM

I wanted to let you know that this thread has been a great source of information and inspiration for my current build. I've learned a lot from your posts and decided to start my own build thread on RC to (hopefully) help someone else as you've helped me.

I have a few questions for you...
I see you're using the 1-1/2" overflow; did you reduce the plumbing anywhere along the way, or did you keep it consistent? I'm using the same overflow, but i'm thinking of redrilling my sump to accomodate the 1-1/2" plumbing.
I'm glad I could be of help to you. To answer your question, I did keep the 1.5'' plumbing consistant throughout. I have a friend with the 700GPH kit reduced to 1'' and he doesn't get much flow through it so I decided to keep it 1.5'' just to be safe.

hi there! beautiful full tank picture :)
very nice todd torch, curious to how many heads is there?
Thanks! It started as 3 heads, all of which have now split at least 3 ways. So, probably 10+ heads. :)

lookin' great dude. :thumbsup:
Touche... you've got a pretty nice lookin' setup yourself!

How do you find the light coverage with a 24'' fixture over a 36'' tank? Im thinking of doing the same thing when I upgrade from my 22g to a 40br this summer.
It's okay, but for a full-blown SPS display (which is what I want eventually) I think it's best to stick with the full 36'' length.

I'd go with an ATI kit that for sure. Just my opinion :).
After I get my Apex paid off, I definatly plan on it! :)

nice build! Love the GH overflow. Coral colors are very nice even w/ off brand lite set up. What kind or return pump are you planning or will you stay w/ the maxijet?
Why thanks... I think I'm going to stick with the Maxijet. Why fix something that isn't broken, right?

I don't know about the 6x36watt ATI. With my 4x36watt Sunpower on my oceanic I have to shade my war coral favia because I started bleaching it in the sand. Also Joe the coral and my orange digi are turned a little white also. The digi is the highest up and joe was half way down in the middle of the tank. My bulb combo was Blue +, GE 6,000K,Blue +, Blue special. I changed the GE for an Auqa sun in hopes of less par. I cut down my day lights 1.5 already, I might go with 2 hrs putting my daylight time @ only 6hrs total. My actinics are on 9 hrs right now. IMO 4x36 ATI is MORE THAN ENOUGH for any SPS in your tank.
Thanks, I just might do that. If I do go with the 6x39w, I'll definatly keep it 8'' off of the surface.

I have been following your thread, but have just registered so I can finally post replies. I am also planning on a Oceanic Illuminata so watching your build has been great. The only difference is that I am probably going with the manufacturer overflow. btw love the black tang I think that they are beautiful. Keep up the good work cant wait to see more.
Welcome to RC, I'm glad you like my build. The Black Tang is what got me to upgrade, because I love this fish so much and don't ever want to sell it!

Johnny C

04/02/2010, 11:37 AM

Here's a recent FTS. Enjoy! :)

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a353/Clarence6988/DSC_0078-1.jpg

SawdustInTank

04/02/2010, 11:54 AM

Super nice man. That torch looks like it blowing in the wind.........Nice aquascape.

chaseg89

04/02/2010, 12:04 PM

I would love to do an overflow box instead of the manufacturer overflow, but I have heard that any kind of alterations might void whatever type of warranty the tank has which would be when the tanks would leak or something. Besides taking up more space what is your take on the advantages of your overflow compared to the manufacturer?

Johnny C

04/02/2010, 07:50 PM

Super nice man. That torch looks like it blowing in the wind.........Nice aquascape.
That's called 'Todds Torch', a Western NY favorite. It's huge. Thanks!

I would love to do an overflow box instead of the manufacturer overflow, but I have heard that any kind of alterations might void whatever type of warranty the tank has which would be when the tanks would leak or something. Besides taking up more space what is your take on the advantages of your overflow compared to the manufacturer?
Thanks... I'm not too worried about the warranty because in all reality they are hardly covered. For example, most companies don't back up the warrantie(s) unless you use the matching stand/canopy.

With that being said, I'm extremely happy that I chose to plumb my own vs. utilizing the stock one. Why? It's 1/10 the size, works just the same and doesn't take away from aquascaping. :)

mavjoy

04/02/2010, 10:26 PM

Really digging the scape...very zen like.

Pink Coralline

04/02/2010, 11:29 PM

Outstanding! 2 Thumbs up...

wec

04/18/2010, 02:12 PM

Nice tank. I just got one and in the process of setting it up.
Any updates on your tank?

TommyA

05/14/2010, 09:14 PM

Any updates?Tank looks awesome

E.intheC

05/15/2010, 01:15 PM

any updates?tank looks awesome

+1.

Johnny C

05/16/2010, 12:00 AM

Thanks everyone, I really appreciate the love. I will have shots of some new additions and an updated FTS by the end of the week, I promise! :)

jmski333

05/16/2010, 08:16 AM

That's called 'Todds Torch', a Western NY favorite. It's huge. Thanks!

Looks like ill have to get one of those torches since im from WNY as well.

Scott-CapeCoral

05/16/2010, 01:59 PM

iamwrasseman

05/16/2010, 05:23 PM

very nice tank there and i like that its not full of live rock also ,very open look as that's what i have been doing with mine . i keep rearranging my tanks one at a time and also removing a few rocks at a time and its paying off as it has so much more room and a better look .

tnyr5

06/16/2010, 03:57 PM

tank looks like it's coming along nicely Johnny

E.intheC

06/21/2010, 08:14 AM

How about some updated pics there buddy? :D

Just throwing out there. I'm especially curious because I'm planning on joining you in the illuminata ranks very soon

E.intheC

06/29/2010, 10:08 AM

OK. I'm bumping this thread up. I see that you have the glass-holes.com overflow kit. Do you have any tips for a newbie tank driller (besides going extremely slowly and using water of course).

Thanks bro! Tank is looking awesome by the way :thumbsup:

cthedaytrader

07/03/2010, 11:12 AM

Looks good update?

Johnny C

07/12/2010, 10:36 PM

Nice tank ;) I don't have pics because mine are actually in shipping right now lol.. I just felt like updating my tank info to what it will be in a couple weeks. we are building the stand for it right now, One stand for both of the illuminatas. It's 78 inches long and the tanks are going to be side by side and share one sump. I want the fuge viewable. (One of the illuminatas are going to be the fuge.) Anyways, nice set-up, keep posting.
That sounds like an awesome setup! Do you have a build thread?

very nice tank there and i like that its not full of live rock also ,very open look as that's what i have been doing with mine . i keep rearranging my tanks one at a time and also removing a few rocks at a time and its paying off as it has so much more room and a better look .
Thanks Wrasse Man! My friend Dan helped with the scape and I really like the minimalist look. I am in the process of modifying it a little but will surely keep the "minimalistic" look.

tank looks like it's coming along nicely Johnny
Thanks bud! I have been following your thread too, the SPS look awesome. Especially the Echinata! :inlove:

OK. I'm bumping this thread up. I see that you have the glass-holes.com overflow kit. Do you have any tips for a newbie tank driller (besides going extremely slowly and using water of course).

Thanks bro! Tank is looking awesome by the way :thumbsup:
Hey bud. The Glass-Holes kit makes the process pretty simple- they give you a template to affix to the tank and a hole-saw. The best advice I can give is not to apply too much pressure to the tank. The weight of the drill is more than enough to push the saw down. Also- having a level on the drill helps a lot because if you go in crooked it will cut uneven. Lastly- a medium, constant speed seems to work. Hope this helps!

Looks good update?
Thanks! :) Update on the next post...

Johnny C

07/12/2010, 10:37 PM

I'm really sorry that I haven't updated- between setting up a prop tank, starting a second job and the nice summer weather I haven't had much time to take pictures. With that being said, I have had a few ups and downs with my Illuminata.

To update- I sold a few of the pieces I had and added more SPS. My tank started developing a green "slime" algae that over the course of the past two months started taking over my tank. My parameters were perfect and I have been staying on top of maintenance, so the algae really threw me for a loop. Come to find out it it came in on a frag from the LFS and went downhill from there (literally and figuratively). After all other attempts at ridding it failed, I finally bit the bullet and dosed a strong amount of Red Slime Remover. It helped tremendously and the green slime is mostly gone. Unfortunatly it took a bit of a toll on my corals (mostly SPS browning a bit), but now that it's gone I can at least focus on getting the full color back into the corals.

On another note- I debated my light upgrade for a long time. I planned on ordering the new Tek Elite fixture, but the company had to recall them due to issues and after waiting five months for them to re-release the Elite I gave up and ordered an ATI Powermodule. I can honestly say that this fixture is just as nice as people claim. Previously I was using a 4x39w Tek. I tested the before/after PAR, and I was shocked at the numbers. My PAR on the sand went from ~85 to 180, and just below the surface went from ~495 to 820. To say the least, I am acclimating my corals to the extreme upgrade very carefully!

I don't have any pictures tonight, but I will surely take some later this week and will update as soon as I do. I picked up some really neat Zoanthids and a red plate coral so I'll show 'em off! :D

Until then, thanks again for all of your kind words. This hobby is all about sharing information and knowledge, and there isn't a better way to do that than here on RC with all you folks. :)

chuckstyl5

07/13/2010, 04:12 AM

where did you hear that the tek elite was recalled?? I have a 6x54 tek elite and havent heard anything

solRNY

07/13/2010, 06:00 AM

I don't have any pictures tonight, but I will surely take some later this week and will update as soon as I do.
awaiting patiently, you got me wanting a nice prop tank too :D

Mr. Right

07/13/2010, 08:44 AM

Sorry to here about you cyano issues. I had some myself which was no fun. PM huh? I’m jealous! Hope all you get you coloration back. I lost some coloration a when I moved my tank about amount ago, I found that AA’s (BW revive in very small amounts) helped tremendously. Since I’ve been dosing I haven’t notice any negative side effects. Just an FYI if it helps. How’s the skimmer working for you?

Johnny C

07/13/2010, 04:24 PM

where did you hear that the tek elite was recalled?? I have a 6x54 tek elite and havent heard anything
There wasn't an official "recall", but only a few hundred of the Elites were released and soon after those customers were complaining of issues with the fans. I spoke with Sunlight Supply and they said that the issue is with the power supply and that the fixtures won't be re-released for a few months.

awaiting patiently, you got me wanting a nice prop tank too :D
You haven't even finished setting up your gorgous DT yet! You know you are addicted when... :lol:

Sorry to here about you cyano issues. I had some myself which was no fun. PM huh? I’m jealous! Hope all you get you coloration back. I lost some coloration a when I moved my tank about amount ago, I found that AA’s (BW revive in very small amounts) helped tremendously. Since I’ve been dosing I haven’t notice any negative side effects. Just an FYI if it helps. How’s the skimmer working for you?

I'm not sure what kind of bacteria it was, however I can tell you that it was a major pain to deal with.

Most of the coloration was IMO due to the bacteria suffocating the corals. I do have some Amino Acids but for right now I'm going to hold off and let nature and good husbandry take its course.

The skimmer is working great- perhaps overkill on my ~75G system, but I have always liked Octopus skimmers and it produces constant skim. :)