Starting the STARS frag tank

[mistaflicksta]

Well as everybody that attended the meeting knows, we voted on starting the club frag tank. Andy "ahlebik" volunteered to run the tank at his house. The process of starting the tank will take some time so dont get discouraged if you dont see fast results. I will be documenting and posting on a dedicated thread so the whole club could follow the frag tank's progress.


I would like to start this thread by asking members to look into their tank equipment stash and donate something to the club for the STARS Frag Tank.
Some people have already said they would donate something. I am asking those people to post on here what they were willing to donate. The only reason I am doing this is to have public documentation of donations.

Every little thing helps in order to get this tank running. If you donate something and it does not get used in the Frag Tank then we will give you the option of taking it back or leaving it as part of a STARS loaner equipment.

Those of you that post donations, I will get with you to pick up the donation. A picture of the donation will be taken and posted on this thread. I will hold the equipment until Andy is ready for it. If for any reason something goes wrong with the Frag Tank, all donations will be returned.

Thank You all for being a part of this new chapter.

Erik Guzman


Ps: Don't forget to post on here the things that you are willing to donate to the Frag Tank.

[pnavarro170]

all i have is a bubble blaster 2000 pump, and one of those coralife timer strips that could help for something but its kinda sucky.

[mistaflicksta]

Thanks Pedro, anything helps even power strips, salt, tongs, tweesers, bone cutters.

I will get with you for that pump and timer. Once I get it I will post a pic of it for documentation.

[Jay508]

I have two plastic sumps that are just collecting dust, an overflow box (U-tube style) would be willing to donate.

[mistaflicksta]

Thank you very much Jay I will contact you later this week to pic up the donations.

[jmait769]

This is the 40 gallon breeder I was going to donate unless you want to go with Jay’s acrylic sumps. No problem either way.

http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n172/jmait769/NewSump01.jpg

Jay

[deehz]

I can donate:
--Dj Power strip (http://www.amazon.com/American-DJ-PC-100A-Channel-Lighted/dp/B0002GL50Q) or 2 depending on how much equipment is used.
--Possibly a Protein skimmer and a glass-holes overflow (will get with Erik and Andy on this).
--time to help Andy setup the tank
--build a stand for the tank (have to get with Andy on what he would like).

That's it for now. I will donate more then a few corals once the system us up and running.

[mistaflicksta]

Jay that will definetly work. I work we would love to to use your sump.

Hanz those DJ Power strips would also be very useful for the tank. what kind of skimmer is it, any skimmer would be nice until we come up with a suitable skimmer.

For those of you that have stated what you have to donate:
If you guys could PM me your number so I can arrange a pick up date.
For those of you from LC that are donating, I will try to arrange to meet everyone on Thursday evening if possible. I will pic all things up take a pic of them and post them on a Things donated thread to keep public documentation of what we have. Things that we don't end up using, we will contact the person who donated the item and give them the option of taking it back or leaving it for a STARS Loaner equipment bin.

Thank You all for your support.

Erik Guzman

[chuy marquez]

I'll install GFCI protection on the outlet that will be used for the tank and provide pvc pipe and fittings. Let me know the sizes and quantities you need.

[pnavarro170]

hey chuy, pm me your full info, i usually need someone to do gfci's on homes when they go up for sale.

[mistaflicksta]

Chuy thank you for volunteering your services. If you could please PM me your number. Once Andy has the tank on his hands then we will know what size of pvc we need.

[tzhanks]

I have tons of pvc fittings for plumbing let me know and I will probably have it. O ya and bulk heads.

[mistaflicksta]

tzhanks, thank you for offering please pm me your number.

I havent posted a specific item list of things that we need because the tank has not been ordered yet. That will determine exactly what we will need.

What we have to work with right now is:
the 40 Gallon sump that Jmait offerd @ the meeting, I will get the measurements on the sikkmer side of the sump and determine what kind of skimmer will fit in it.
overflow and sump from Jay508 offered that we can use as a second fuge or modified ATO. If we don't use it we will return it.

dj power strips from Deehz that we can definitely use.

buble blaster and timer from Pedro we can definitely use the timer and the pump for circulation

Chuy has also offered his electrical services and plumbing parts
tzhanks has also offered plumbing parts

The only thing we can work on until the tank is decided on is the sump.
Myself and Deehz on working on something for the purchase of a descent protein skimmer.

one other thing we need for the sump is a return pump.

There were also some people in the meeting that said they had lighting they could donate. If you could please post it on here and then pm me your number I would apreciate it.

For those that also offered set up assistance, thank you I will let you all know as soon as we are ready for it.

Thanks
Erik Guzman

[mistaflicksta]

Sal "saldebo" could you pm me your number so we can arrange a day to pick up the light that you had offered?

I think John "strayvoltage" also said he had a light availabe. John could you pm me aswell please?

Thanks

Erik

[Aquarium C]

Hello Guys, If you would like you can host STAR frag tank in Aquarium Concept store and the store will design and made the tank.

regards

AC

[TimGentry]

Sorry I couldn't make it out to the meeting guys. This time of year my addiction to football usually overwhelms my saltwater hobby. Hope you all had a god time together:fun2:

[pnavarro170]

Hello Guys, If you would like you can host STAR frag tank in Aquarium Concept store and the store will design and made the tank.

regards

AC

wow, that would be cool, talk to eric, ERIC pay attention here!!! haha

[mistaflicksta]

Andy was selected by the members who went to the meeting to run the tank. He is already working on ordering the tank. since he is the one buying the tank it would have to be him who decides wheter to go with glass of acrylic.

Thank you for offering Luis, it is greatly appreciated.

on another note I will be selling the equipment I took off my tank in order to buy a skimmer for the Frag tank. I was looking into getting the Octopus nwb 150. If anybody in the club is willing to split the cost of the skimmer with me that would also be appreciated. Just a reminder we also need a return pump, so please start looking in your spare equipment storage for one.

Thank You

Erik Guzman

[pnavarro170]

well the spare bubble blaster 2000 pump is built for the skimmers. might be cheap to buy just the body.

[psuedopimp]

i could donate a quiet one 2000, or 4000, i can't remember what i have. it worked great as long as you don't have to restart it!!

[mistaflicksta]

i could donate a quiet one 2000, or 4000, i can't remember what i have. it worked great as long as you don't have to restart it!!

Great! that will work pm me your number please.

[strayvoltage]

Erik, thanks for posting that Andy has already been selected by members of STARS as the host of the STARS frag tank and that it is his tank and his choice to get the tank he wants and not what anybody else wants or thinks it should be. It is not open for discussion or to be changed as to where or who will have the tank, unless it is done at a meeting and voted on by members. Luis, thank you for offering and as Erik said it is greatly appreciated.

Erik you are the chairman in charge of the frag tank project, it was your idea and you done the research into it. But we all have to work together and also remember the tank will belong to Andy and he will have to work closely with you in making all of this work.

I know it can work out well for all club members and be a good thing, but it could also turn out to be a not so good thing if not ran properly and taken care of in a manner to benefit club members. We also have to be sure that no corals are ever given out to people that don't qualify as club members. It is a little vague as to who is or is not a club member but that can be figured out if a question should arise by contacting our fine secretary Audrey (nmnative) to find out if the person in question has attended meetings and or taken an active part here on the forum to qualify as a STARS member. None of this should be any kind of an issue for sometime because it will be sometime before the system is in place and any frags are ready to be given out.

Erik Please call me at your convenience there are a few things we should talk about. (575)494-0481. If I don't answer please leave a message and I will get back to you ASAP
Yes I did just publicly post my cell number, I am always open for any call from any member that has a question or idea that they need or want to discuss.
:wave:

[puffin04]

How about a text as well John? :)

Steffen Sparks

[ahlebik]

Quotes on the tank are still coming in. Looks like because of the holidays the tank will not arrive until mid to late feb. I am still awaiting word from Derek at Miracles about shipping costs and arrival date.

[strayvoltage]

Steffen, just for you I will accept text messages. We all know you are a texting fool
:wave:

[strayvoltage]

Erik, any update on this project? I am sure you have been busy with the holidays and all just like the rest of us, so just curious is all. :wave:

[Saldebo]

Text me man at 6023187741. Monday would be a good day i dont work. I just found a ice pack ballast . I dont have the wire for it tho. Ill wIre the 250 MH today.

[mistaflicksta]

Ok guys, I talked to Andy yesterday and it seems that he is going to go with a glass tank after all. He told me he would be ordering the tank next week, but the tank won't be getting here until late Feb. As far as materials go for the tank, I have not picked up anthing that was offered by the members. I was thinking that the people that offered equipment for the tank could bring it to the meeting on Sunday January 30th. This way everybody that shows up to the meeting physically sees what we have for the tank. I will make some hand receipts for the items that way the treasure has record of the equipment. Any equipment not used will be given back to the person who donated it.

As far as equipment goes, this is what has been offerd by the members:
Pedro: bubble blaster pump
Jmait769: 40 gallon sump
Psuedopimp: Quiet one return pump
Chuy: pvc plumbing, and also offered electrical work
Tzhanks: plumbing and bulk heads
John: light fixture
Saldebo: light fixture
Jay508: sumps and HOB overflow.
Hans: dj power strip

Also Hans and I will be splitting the cost of an Octopus NWB 150 protein skimmer If anybody else is willing to split the cost, please let us know.

Please let me know if you can't make it to the meeting and I will arrange a pick up for next weekend.

Erik Guzman





Saldebo, thanks I will text you later today.

[Saldebo]

Originally Posted by Aquarium C View Post
Hello Guys, If you would like you can host STAR frag tank in Aquarium Concept store and the store will design and made the tank.

regards

AC



Seems like a good idea.

[benjabba]

I don't have any extra equipment at the moment but I have several corals I will donate once the tank is established.

[ahlebik]

Tank will be delivered Feb 8th!

[benjabba]

I dug out my old Reefkeeper2 controller last night and tried to fire it up to no avail. I think it just needs to have the fuse replaced. I ordered some this morning and they should be here early next week. If I can get it working I am more than willing to donate it to the frag tank.

[mistaflicksta]

That is good to hear Ben, Thanks alot the club really appreciates it. Will you be attending the meeting?

[benjabba]

That is good to hear Ben, Thanks alot the club really appreciates it. Will you be attending the meeting?

Most likely I will not make the meeting or many meetings. I travel too much for work so the wife and kids have alot of stuff for me to do on the weekends. :)

[mistaflicksta]

Ok guys and gals,
The meeting is fast approaching. I would like to once more reach out to the club and ask for the items that will be donated for the club frag tank. If you will be attending the meeting and have something to donate please bring it to the meeting. If you have something to donate and will not be able to attend the meeting please contact me and I will gladly pick it up. The tank has been ordered and will be here February 8th. The reason I want to collect everything by the date of the meeting is so everybody in the club that attends the meeting can see what we have to start the tank, and what will still be needed.

Anything that can be donated will be greatly appreciated. If you don't have any equipment to donate, anything tank related will help ie: salt, test kits, supplements.

Thank you all, with your help we will get this club frag tank to a great start.

Erik Guzman

[benjabba]

Was cleaning out the fish room and found an old style Korilia powerhead. Not sure what size it is. It is getting a vinegar bath now. I will find a way to get it to the meeting.

I replaced the fuse on the RK2 and it is still not working properly. I know the unit still works so I suspect I need to replace the fuse housing. Digital Aquatics doesn't sell the piece I need so I will try to fix it myself. If I can't I will send it to them to repair.

[mistaflicksta]

Ben,

thanks again for your contribution. If you would like since I live close to where you work, maybe you could bring it with you to work and I could pick it up when you get out of work. If you are not pressed on time after work you can stop by my appartment and drop it off and check out my set up.

[benjabba]

Hey Eric I sent you a PM.

[jmait769]

Erik, if it is ok I would like to take the sump to Andy or we can coordinate dropping it off at his/your convenience. Just don’t want to take it all the way to EP as it will not fit in my Civic! :)

Jay

[strayvoltage]

Oh come on Jay you have a gas hog truck you could drive to El Paso to haul it in. Don't be ascaredycat. :wave:

[jmait769]

Oh come on Jay you have a gas hog truck you could drive to El Paso to haul it in. Don't be ascaredycat. :wave:Ha! That thing can’t pass up a gas station. :hmm6: Well, I guess you shamed me into if Eric really needs it there!

Jay

[mistaflicksta]

Jay, that would be fine, I undestand that trying to put a glass box in a shoe box is a little difficult LOL! just kidding, If you could give it to Andy before the meeting would also be great that way I can hand you a hand receipt for your donation.

John, I will be making up some hand receipts and forwarding them to you so you can look them over. I was thinking about using the logo that Ryan Paskadi had come up with. let me know if you have anything else in mind.

Erik Guzman

[jmait769]

Jay, that would be fine, I undestand that trying to put a glass box in a shoe box is a little difficult LOL! just kidding, If you could give it to Andy before the meeting would also be great that way I can hand you a hand receipt for your donation.

Erik GuzmanSounds good! Andy, just let me know when and where! :)

Jay

[strayvoltage]

Jay I was only teasing you and for sure not trying to shame you into driving that thing to El Paso. I feel it is would be silly for anybody in Las Cruces to haul anything to El Paso when Andy live in Las Cruces. The only thing is that maybe Andy could document what is brought to him and or maybe even give a receipt.


Erik, I don't see a problem with you printing some receipts. I don't see a problem with them having the official SATRS logo on them either. There is one that is the one we all voted on and made the official logo and if you use that one I don't see any problem with it or even a need to send me anything to look at. I think it's a great Idea. Thanks Erik!
:wave:

[mistaflicksta]

Just a reminder, for those of you that will be attending the meeting and have something to donate to the club frag tank, please bring it with you.

Thank you

Erik

[pnavarro170]

hey eric, like i said i would donate the pump, but i think it only works if you plan on getting an octopus skimmer that uses it. if thats not the plan and it cant be used for anything else then let me know(not a power head pump, just makes bubbles) so i can come up with something else also.

[ahlebik]

the pump is out of a octopus skimmer? which? I am in the market for a extra extreme 200 pump.

[mistaflicksta]

Andy, that pump should work better for the extreme, given the pump can screw into the skimmer.

Pedro, thats cool. you dont need to bring the pump in, anything else will do.

to all club members, if don't have anything laying around that you can donate that is fine too. If any of you would like to do a small monatary contribution that would also be greatly appreciated. It will help get better equipment for the tank.

Erik

[puffin04]

hey eric, like i said i would donate the pump, but i think it only works if you plan on getting an octopus skimmer that uses it. if thats not the plan and it cant be used for anything else then let me know(not a power head pump, just makes bubbles) so i can come up with something else also.

Bubble Blaster 5000??? Definitely a great pump!!!!

Steffen Sparks

[pnavarro170]

Mines a bubble blaster 2000, if your not getting a skimmer for that uses that pump, the pump cant be used for anything else right ???

[mistaflicksta]

Hey Pedo bring the pump so we can test that theory out. All Octopus skimmers might have the same diameter intakes. we can take my skimmer apart and try it out

[puffin04]

Mines a bubble blaster 2000, if your not getting a skimmer for that uses that pump, the pump cant be used for anything else right ???

Correct!!! They should hook up to most octopus skimmers. But wont do much other then that since they flow 300GPH. But a great pump and only uses like 25watts! Thanks

Steffen Sparks

[pnavarro170]

COOL, well hopefully we can do something with it. like it says its meant to be a skimmer pump, not a water pump. so it pulls in alot of air. thats why its a good pump for skimming. lots of bubbles. no pun.

[mistaflicksta]

to all club memebers,

if you have a good quality skimmer that can handle 150gal or better that you might be willing to part with(sell, lend), please let us know I had originally planned to buy the reef octopus nwb 150, but since my truck broke down and Im strapped for cash right now I cant buy it this coming month. Since the tank will be here in Feb and I will not be able to buy the skimmer till March. If you have a skimmer you want to sell for cheap or are willing to lend till we get the funds for a permanent skimmer, that will help the frag tank get off to a good start.

Erik

[ahlebik]

The truck broke down in California that had the tank on it. Delayed till next week at least.

[jmait769]

That is a bummer!! :(

Jay

[strayvoltage]

Man I hate when that happens. GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRrr
:wave:

[psuedopimp]

probly a ford!!!

[puffin04]

probly a ford!!!

+1 or if it is a dodge for sure the transmission. I will never go cross country again in a Dodge truck. lol

Steffen Sparks

[bmw_zoan]

Yeah probably was a Ford... Last time I went to San Antonio our truck failed and sure enough its a Ford... Thats why it is all about German engineering :P

[jmait769]

probly a ford!!!Now now don’t be jealous of the blue oval!! First On Race Day!!!! :)

Jay

[deehz]

Now now don’t be jealous of the blue oval!! First On Race Day!!!! :)

Jay

Just for you Jay!
Here's me and a Ford :fun2:
What does ford mean if you spell it backwards? Driver Returns On Foot
Fails On Race Day
Found On Roadside Dead
[profanity]on race day
Factory Ordered Road Disaster
:blown:

[puffin04]

The truck broke down in California that had the tank on it. Delayed till next week at least.

Hate getting the call during the super bowl about that. She made it sound like the truck blew up or something. lol

Steffen Sparks

[puffin04]

Jay this is for you!!! Here is some pics of Jimmie Doss 66 Mustang that he has completely redone. Hope you like!!! :)

http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii140/66JameStang/1966%20Mustang%20repaint/Shaker8.jpg
http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii140/66JameStang/1966%20Mustang%20repaint/IMG956807.jpg
http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii140/66JameStang/1966%20Mustang%20repaint/Shaker1.jpg

Here is the URL where you can check out over 50 photos and i believe there is a few vids in there as well. :)

http://s263.photobucket.com/albums/ii140/66JameStang/1966%20Mustang%20repaint/#!cpZZ1QQtppZZ20

[jmait769]

Jay this is for you!!! Here is some pics of Jimmie Doss 66 Mustang that he has completely redone. Hope you like!!! :)

http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii140/66JameStang/1966%20Mustang%20repaint/Shaker8.jpg
http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii140/66JameStang/1966%20Mustang%20repaint/IMG956807.jpg
http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii140/66JameStang/1966%20Mustang%20repaint/Shaker1.jpg

Here is the URL where you can check out over 50 photos and i believe there is a few vids in there as well. :)

http://s263.photobucket.com/albums/ii140/66JameStang/1966%20Mustang%20repaint/#!cpZZ1QQtppZZ20That is SWEET!! Is this local? I need someone to paint mine!

http://images4.cpcache.com/product/339529314v7_480x480_Front.jpg

:) :) :) :)

Jay

[strayvoltage]

Jay, get the materials and lets paint it.

[psuedopimp]

i will help with the prep if you need it!

[strayvoltage]

Come on Jay already two of us fellow reefer car enthusiasts willing to help with the pain job. Of course it is a bit cool right now for any painting but we could sure start sanding and the sort.
:wave:

[ahlebik]

do you guys work for frags? :)

[jmait769]

Thanks for the offers on painting this thing – still deciding on which way to go!!! :) Sorry if we got carried away and hijacked the frag tank thread! Did you get any firm delivery day? Let me know if you need any help moving it.

Jay

[ahlebik]

No date as of yet... figure sometime this week.

puffin has some glass coming on the truck... I was just going to enlist his aid. Oh he dosent know it yet by the way... shhhh :)

[puffin04]

No date as of yet... figure sometime this week.

puffin has some glass coming on the truck... I was just going to enlist his aid. Oh he dosent know it yet by the way... shhhh :)

LOL but what Andy did not know it was I that needed him!!!! :)

Steffen Sparks

[puffin04]

The 100 gallon wide is in!!!! It is time for some more donations! We will be hopefully drilling it out this week. Thanks

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c99/puffin04/DSCN0933.jpg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c99/puffin04/DSCN0934.jpg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c99/puffin04/DSCN0935.jpg

[mistaflicksta]

Well Just a quick update on the STARS Frag Tank.

The Tank is in and it is sitting @ Steffens (puffin04) house waiting to get drilled and the overflow installed.
The Light fixture is being looked over by John (Strayvoltage) to make sure it is functioning properly.
Chuy (Chuy Marquez) is donating a Dart return pump, I still need to get with him on picking it up.
Justin (psuedopimp) donated a quiet one return pump that is in my possesion and is currently being dipped in vinegar
Jay (Jmait) donated a 40gal sump that is waiting to get picked up
Erik(mistaflicksta) and Daniel (coralreef915) donated a Octopus NWB 150 Protein skimmer which was ordered today.

Andy just anounced that he might be moving to El Paso so that will also determine how long before the tank is set up.

I would like to thank all of the people who have contributed to the cause and helping this club grow. We really apreciate all that you have done.

Some things that we will still need for the tank would be, some kind of reactor to run carbon, power heads, lightbulbs (I beleive that John said the light was all Power compacts), supplements, salt, Test Kits. If any of you have some of this stuff laying around or would like to buy and contribute to the club, please let us know.

We are very close to geting the tank up and running.

Thank You

Erik Guzman

[igazoo25]

I can donate $40 to the frag tank, no extra equipment right now, and i would rather you guys use the cash for whatever you need for the tank.

Ivan

[bmw_zoan]

I am getting a new power head for my new tank soon I might be able to donate the power head I have now :)

[mistaflicksta]

Ivan, You got PM

Beto, Max thanks for your offerings any little bit helps.

Remember guys if you donate and we end up not using it, the donation will be returned to you so please dont be affraid to donate.

Well as far as the light goes, John told me that the light was a Power Compact fixture and that it needed ballasts and bulbs. Well the expense of getting new parts for the fixture is very high and the light will also not be able to maintain most SPS corals, so we are going to try and go for some T5 or some MH for the tank.

I am working on getting a club account started so people that want to do monetary donations to the club can do so. I was thinking about starting a Club Paypal account since most businesses accept it. let me know what you guys think.

Erik

[deehz]

PayPal does this for clubs? Also, Google has the same thing and you know Google owns everything! LOL That's not a bad Idea but I think you still need a bank account to verify either account right?

[mistaflicksta]

Well I am still in the Research stage of this, I am reading up on how to start a non profit club account. I remeber that we used to have one with bank of america in one of my old Army units so I know it can be done but I still dont have all my facts straight. Once I feel confident on the subject then I will bring it as a subject to vote on in a future meeting. Until then it is just an idea taht I threw out there.

Erik

[deehz]

Yeah, most banks allow you to have any account. It does not matter if it is for a club. However, what would be beneficial is to have 2 signers to authorize transactions. Most times, it is for a non-charitable group, the banking institution will wave its fees.

I think and if I am correct, they set up a "club" account as a commercial account. Many times, because of the multiple signatures required. This is where you have to state that it is for a non-for-profit group, like our club. That's when most often, they will wave the fees. Well at least that what a friend once told me, she works for a bank.

[psuedopimp]

in order to have a bank account under a non-profit status or a business account, you must have your tax id number. at least last time i set up an account that way i had to have one.

[mistaflicksta]

Hans and Justin, thanks for the heads up info. I really appreciate your help. first on my agenda is getting this frag tank started and running smoothly so it wont be until then that I will bring this subject back up.

As far as the Frag tank go we still need a light for the tank, I still need to speak with Andy on which light he had seen and what website he had seen it on.

My idea on the light was this: Once I figure out website it is on then maybe the members in the club who would like to contribute could buy gift cards for that store for whatever amount they wish. Then we could combine all of the gift cards in order to buy the light. this should solve the problem of having to handle money without an account.

What do you guys think, should we do it that way?

Erik

[deehz]

Catalina Lights has some very inexpensive T5 lights and you can build your own. If i was to go the new light route, it would be CL (under Catalina Aquariums). As shallow and narrow as the tank is, I think you could get away with a 4-5 bulb combination. Having an AI fixture would be awesome, but they are also expensive.

I think you can call CL to set up an account where members can go and put into it if I am not mistaken. Either way, which ever route you go, I can put in money in for the light. Just to help out the club.

I hope others follow suite. You don't have to donate $40-$100 which would be nice. A simple $5-$10 goes a long way when you multiply it times 50. This is why I also mentioned in order to join the club, a very small "monetary donation" gains one membership into the club. Maybe its something we need to speak of at the following meeting. This way, the burden of purchasing marketing tools, products, donations to charitable causes in and out of the city, setting up the frag tank doesn't fall under the sole responsibility of one member/officer or LFS. I would pay $10-$20 to be a member because I know its helping out the club. Other clubs/non-profit organizations do this on a daily basis. I just renewed my membership to the Sierra Club, Green Peace and joining a reef club to protect the reefs. There is no set amount with these clubs, you give what you can to gain membership.

Just my .02

[jmait769]

I have all the plumbing from my old tank I’m willing to get rid of (wife has threatened to throw this out a few times!! :furious: ). Most of it is 1¼ - 1½ OD - QD's, spa flex and some valves. So if you like don't buy any until you take a look at what I have! :)

Jay

[mistaflicksta]

Jay, sounds good thanks once again.

Erik

[strayvoltage]

Be sure to check out the starsreefclub.com website and see the new tab for the frag tank. Still in the works but we are going to try to keep it updated and keep track of what is going on with it there.
:wave:

[mistaflicksta]

Update,

Skimmer should be in by the end of this week. I ordered the reef octopus NWB 150. I got the bubble blaster 2000 from Pedro, so I called Coralvue and they told me I can turn the NWB 150 into the Super Reef 2000 Octopus In Sump Skimmer. All I would need is the venturi intake which costs $25 and could be bought directly from them. If Anybody is willing to buy and donate that part, it would help upgrade the club frag tank filtration.

Erik

[pnavarro170]

hope it works out, hell of a pump, and i was surprised it turned on right away.

[igazoo25]

I'll pay for it just give me info so I can get it ordered and shipped.

[mistaflicksta]

Update

Well here are some of the items I have collected from club members

Justin quiet one pump
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/mistaflicksta/0403111950.jpg

Pedro, bubble blaster 2000
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/mistaflicksta/0403111946a.jpg

Ivan, venturi attachment for the bubble blaster pump
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/mistaflicksta/0403111946.jpg


I would like to thank all members who have donated and those who have offered things up for donation. I will try to get with everybody that offered to donate this week so I can arrange a pick up time/date.

Chuy and I will get with Andy this week so we can see his new place and check out the electrical. Once Andy settles in to his new home the frag tank should get off to a great start.

Skimmer came in but it was the wrong one. It was sent back and should be here this Thursday

Erik

[mistaflicksta]

Well good news, the skimmer is in! yay! Daniel called me today and told me the right one had came in. I will be picking it up tommorrow.
I also have this 3X 250 W metal halide retrofit ready and available for the frag tank which gets us closer to the tank set up
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/mistaflicksta/0405111717.jpg
I would also like to inform all members that the coral reef is now sponsor of Outkast softball team! We are a strong C class team and are allways open to new players. If you know how to play please contact me and well test you out.

[pnavarro170]

erick i might know how im not sure. let me know how to try out for reals. i might suck.

[mistaflicksta]

The Frag tank Skimmer is in!
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/mistaflicksta/0409111056.jpg

I ran into a snag with the pump as the thread adaptor in the bubble blaster is bigger than the skimmer intake so I called coralvue but they were closed for the weekend, so I sent them an email. I hope to have this part in by the end of the week.

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/mistaflicksta/0409111504.jpg
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/mistaflicksta/0409111503.jpg

[jmait769]

I ran into a snag with the pump as the thread adaptor in the bubble blaster is bigger than the skimmer intake so I called coralvue but they were closed for the weekend, so I sent them an email. I hope to have this part in by the end of the week.

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/mistaflicksta/0409111504.jpgThis is just a WAG but does the grey threaded area on the pump unscrew from the clear housing like an adapter?

Jay

[mistaflicksta]

The one on the bubble blaster does screw off, that is the piece I am gonna call coralvue about. I wanted to unscrew the one on the OTP pump put it is glued on.

[mistaflicksta]

Is there any place in EP or LC that sells metric Union fittings?
or any metric plumbing?

[deehz]

Try Fergusson's. They are a plumbing outfit that sells just about everything. They are in EP. I don't know about metric plumbing being sold here since most is sold on the standard scale. I have worked as a plumber and with a ton of plumbers for many years and never ran into metric size plumbing pieces. It doesn't mean it doesn't exist here, but is very unusual in size and hard to find i would imagine.

[mistaflicksta]

If it comes down to it and Coralvue doesnt have it then I can take the adaper of and use a piece of flex tube. They should have it since the Super reef octopus 2000 is the octopus NWB150 with a bubble blaster. Jeremy from coralvue had told me there would be no problem so I bet they have the part, they are just gonna make me bend over for it

[mistaflicksta]

Well Today I stopped by Ben's house and he was kind enough to donate some great products. He donated a Korallia 3 for water circulation and a 50lb box of Red Sea Coral Pro salt. Thanks Ben! He also has a Reef Keeeper that he is gonna donate, I will get that later.

Jay, Sorry I havent contacted you on picking up the sump. If you could bring it to the meeting next week that would really be awsome.
(also if you still have the plumbing that would be nice too)

So far what we have for the frag tank is the following:
Frag tank 72X24X12
40gallon sump (pending pick up)
Quiet one return pump (I gave it a vinegar bath and now it starts up every time)
Octopus NWB 150 skimmer
Bubble blaster 2000 with venturi (pending threaded adapter)
3X 250w DE MH Catalina retro fit kit(needs a canopy fabricated or a light enclosure)
Korallia 3 pump
Coral Pro Salt
Reef Keeper (Pending pick up)

I think we are off to a good start

Things we still need:
build a stand
build a Canopy or find an enclosure to fitht he lights in
Plumbing ( We are gonna try to salvage as much of Jays pluming as possible)


We are almost there guys!

[pnavarro170]

that is really alot in a short period of time. great job.

[deehz]

If it comes down to it and Coralvue doesnt have it then I can take the adaper of and use a piece of flex tube. They should have it since the Super reef octopus 2000 is the octopus NWB150 with a bubble blaster. Jeremy from coralvue had told me there would be no problem so I bet they have the part, they are just gonna make me bend over for it
If they charge for the part, lmk. I will buy it. Just send me the info on it or i can paypal over the funds. Which ever way is easier bro.

[mistaflicksta]

I just ordered the part, the guy Jeremy online is giving me the run around so I called directly and the lady that I talked to said they had it and she is shipping it today. Hopefully it tis the right part.

[jmait769]

I just ordered the part, the guy Jeremy online is giving me the run around so I called directly and the lady that I talked to said they had it and she is shipping it today. Hopefully it tis the right part.What did you have to order – just an adapter?

Jay

[mistaflicksta]

I just had to get the grey threaded adapter on the bubble blaster 2000. If I take the adapter off then the clear threading on the pump is smaller than the intake of the skimmer

[mistaflicksta]

Well It took a little bit of work but We have created a Monster! We have turned an Octopus NWB 150 and turned it into an Super Reef Octopus 2000.
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/mistaflicksta/0413111435b.jpg
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/mistaflicksta/0413111435c.jpg
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/mistaflicksta/0413111435.jpg
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/mistaflicksta/0413111435a.jpg

[jmait769]

Jay, Sorry I havent contacted you on picking up the sump. If you could bring it to the meeting next week that would really be awsome.
(also if you still have the plumbing that would be nice too)
If anyone is headed that way with a truck or a vehicle this will fit in let me know! It will not fit in my civic! :(

Well It took a little bit of work but We have created a Monster! We have turned an Octopus NWB 150 and turned it into an Super Reef Octopus 2000.That is awesome!! :thumbsup:

Jay

[pnavarro170]

that is pretty neat, great job eric. you have opened up alot of peoples eyes i bet if they see this.

[deehz]

Hey jay, I think I am going to the meeting. We can car pool and I will pick you up. I will let you know by Friday. I have stuff I gotta takes well. This will be my last official STARS meeting I will attend.

[jmait769]

Hey jay, I think I am going to the meeting. We can car pool and I will pick you up. I will let you know by Friday. I have stuff I gotta takes well. This will be my last official STARS meeting I will attend.Thanks deehz, I have to see where I am as far as school work goes before I can commit. I’m trying to get ahead before Sunday!!

Jay

[deehz]

Yeah, same here. School is winding down which means a crap load of work to be turned in the last couple of weeks. I will let you know sat if I am going for sure.

[mistaflicksta]

Meeting is tommorrow @ The Coral Reef @ 2pm, if any of you have anything that you want to donate to the club frag tank, please bring it to the meeting.

Erik

[fn1]

hi all im shaun..ill be attending my first stars meeting today along with my wife andrea...i have a penguin 1140 (300 gph) power head sitting around if it could be used for the frag tank id be happy to donate it

shaun

[mistaflicksta]

hi Shaun, anyything helps, keep in mind if we dont end up using it on the tank, we will return it to you
its allways good see new people join us.

Erik

[mistaflicksta]

hi Shaun, anyything helps, keep in mind if we dont end up using it on the tank, we will return it to you
its allways good see new people join us.

Erik

[fn1]

anything new with the frag tank?

[mistaflicksta]

no updates as of yet, but now that Andy is offering to host the meeting, that will give use the opportunity take all of the materials on hand and start work on the tank

[jmait769]

Will the skimmer fit in the sump?

Jay

[mistaflicksta]

oh yeah! there are updates, I got a power head from Shaun.
I also got around to picking up the sump from Jay.

The sump skimmer slot is perfect for the skimmer. the Skimmer is currently running in the sump in my balcony. I will post pics once I get home from school.

once again thanks to everyone who has contributed to the frag tank. Ill try to get with Andy this week to see if we can start building the sump

[pnavarro170]

its in the sump and your gonna start building the sump ???

[mistaflicksta]

its in the sump and your gonna start building the sump ???

What are you talking about dude? you saw the sump yesterday. its already build, we were just concerned about it not fitting in the skimmer slot.

here are some pics of the sump with the skimmer running. I am making an egg crate stand to lift the skimmer up about 2in so it can run at the proper water level

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/mistaflicksta/0427111340a.jpg
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/mistaflicksta/0427111340.jpg

[pnavarro170]

i know haha read what you wrote before that.

[Saldebo]

I was going to ask that to lol. Was thinking a 2 sump frag tank or something. Thought that would be cool

[mistaflicksta]

LOL! I just went back and read what i wrote. LOL! I meant to type Stand. OOPPS! LOL!
but now that I think of it, It would be cool to have two sumps.

[pnavarro170]

lets build the stand first and go from there. haha.

[Saldebo]

http://www.google.ca/imgres?imgurl=http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g152/JMC_711/IMG_8551.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.razorbackreef.org/phpBB3/viewtopic.php%3Ff%3D17%26t%3D3426&usg=__oPJdICFjDzmBPzk1PVIeCrli8MI=&h=683&w=1024&sz=150&hl=en&start=45&zoom=1&tbnid=xQ_HFdoUs7xqsM:&tbnh=130&tbnw=232&ei=PPq4TZn2D5K4tgfV5oDeBA&prev=/search%3Fq%3Drubbermaid%2Bsump%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26sa%3DN%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-US:official%26biw%3D1024%26bih%3D578%26tbm%3Disch0%2C1482&um=1&itbs=1&iact=hc&vpx=147&vpy=162&dur=2251&hovh=183&hovw=275&tx=165&ty=132&page=4&ndsp=13&ved=1t:429,r:4,s:45&biw=1024&bih=578


Could use this as a tank what do you guys think

[mistaflicksta]

we got a Stand! the members that went to the meeting today got around to building a stand for the frag tank. Sorry I had to leave early, it looks great guys.

http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/mistaflicksta/imagejpeg952.jpg

[jmait769]

Looks good!! Great job and can’t wait to see it with a tank on it!!

Jay

[jtinoco]

I guess I should post my pics on this thread too.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/frag%20tank%20stand%20build/b2808366.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/frag%20tank%20stand%20build/d7d98c0d.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/frag%20tank%20stand%20build/e420ef19.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/frag%20tank%20stand%20build/208833cb.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/frag%20tank%20stand%20build/748afee2.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/frag%20tank%20stand%20build/7ab11216.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/frag%20tank%20stand%20build/34fc66d8.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/frag%20tank%20stand%20build/c89c9ed8.jpg

[mistaflicksta]

Update:

We still need to skin the stand, and we need lights (LEDs is what Andy wants to go with)

We are almost there people. Hopefully we get a good turn out directors wise so we can talk about this.

Erik

[jsehlms]

Well It took a little bit of work but We have created a Monster! We have turned an Octopus NWB 150 and turned it into an Super Reef Octopus 2000.
http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m579/mistaflicksta/0413111435b.jpg


Thank you for going through with this transformation. Saves me the headache of guessing if it'll work in the future when I want to upgrade my tank.

Can you tell me what size your skimmer section of the sump is? Also it looks like the length of the skimmer footprint has changed (due to the adapter), but what about the width. Is the Bubble blaster wider than the OTP pump originally on there?

Thanks.

Also, do you have a price/part number for the adapter?

[ahlebik]

Eric did the ordering and will have to tell you about that. Ill try and get some measurements for you when I can. I say when I can because I am pulling 8 12hr midnights in a row right now.... 4 down 4 to go!

[mistaflicksta]

The bubble blaster pump has a smaller foot print than the otp 2000. with the bubble blaster on the nwb150 it has the same foot print as the Super Reef Octopus 2000. just look at the coral vue website for the footprint dimensions. If you buy the pump from coralvue they will supply the venturi and the adapter pieces (but you have to ask them for it). Now if you already have the pump then each piece is $25 plus shipping. You will also have to run the skimmer at about 6inches because the bubble blaster is really powerful.

[Lytehouse]

How 'bout update on the tank

[mistaflicksta]

Well we have some hurdles that we have to talk about in the next meeting that will either complete the build or disassemble it.

On another note I would like once again thank the members that contributed to this project:
Jay
Justin
Pedro
Andy
Steffen
Ben
Ivan
Shaun
Daniel
With out you guys this would still just a proposition

Member participation is what gets things running smooth. The more members participate, the stronger we get.


I would also like to thank every STARS member that follows us on RC, We are all here for the same reason "addiction" to this hobby and only you know what the rest of us are going through. So make shure to share your thoughts with us that share the same addiction and understand what your tank is going through, as we will not judge you but guide you through your addiction

[Lytehouse]

good luck

[psuedopimp]

hey what is the current status??? i have a few frags that are primed for this project since strayvoltage (not to mention names) hasn't gotten his frags. in other words im begging to donate frags!!

[mistaflicksta]

We are at a stand still with the tank. We need somebody with the room and knowledge to run the tank. All of the materials are being held at Andy's house for the time being.

What kind of frags do you have?

[psuedopimp]

just a few frags that are just sitting in my tank...orange cap, idaho grape, and a scroll coral. nothing too fancy

[mistaflicksta]

Wanna trade for the idaho grape and the scroll?

[psuedopimp]

sure!!

[mistaflicksta]

Hello members,

I will be returning the Items that were donated for the Frag Tank.
As soon I get together with Andy, I will cordinate with everybody that donated items to get them their Items back.

Thank You

[Chaka]

well that stinks. I would have had room soon, but the knowledge base is where I lack.

[mistaflicksta]

The project has been at a stand still for a while, and I will be leaving El Paso soon so I want to make sure everybody gets their stuff back