GfordQC's 90 Cube Build [Archive] - Reef Central Online Community

GfordQC

09/20/2016, 10:33 AM

Hello All,

After around a 7 year hiatus i have been beginning to get up to speed on what new has come through in the land of reef keeping by looking through these threads and getting back into the swing of things. To quickly go over the obligatory past of my salt water experience i had a 55 gal FOWLR that i had for around 3-4 years with your common Clownfish, goby, royal gramma type fish until the winds of huricane ike swept through Ohio and we were out of power for around 7 days. After that i took a break, had a few kids, finished school and here I am.

Here is the rundown of what i'm planning now. It's going to be a SCA 90 cube as to which i have already purchased with the white stand probably will be 2 more weeks til i get that. Mostly plan on housing LPS and maybe some SPS down the road, but i am definitely taking my time on this.

Current Equipment list:

Tank: SCA 90 Gal Cube 36" x 24" x 24" w/ White Stand

Lighting: AquaIlluminations Hydra52HD

Sump: Eshopps R-200 2nd Gen (Craigslist find)

Return Pump: Jebao DCT-6000

Powerheads: Jebao PP-4 & PP-8

Controller: Apex Jr.

Reactor(s): BRS Deluxe GFO & Carbon

ATO: Tunes Osomolator 3155

Heaters: Ehiem Jager 150W (2)

GfordQC

09/20/2016, 10:37 AM

Already have my Water change setup ready to go.

GfordQC

09/22/2016, 05:39 AM

Tank location...View from the couch. Tank will be front and center in the middle of it all which will be nice.

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/TankLocationmodified_zpsjgicfgda.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/TankLocationmodified_zpsjgicfgda.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo TankLocationmodified_zpsjgicfgda.jpg"/></a>
(Picture Test)

CafeReef

09/22/2016, 06:47 AM

Good tank choice!, I have the SCA 50 and love it.

GfordQC

09/22/2016, 11:10 AM

Thanks, Yeah i have been mulling over it for a while asking Steve questions here and there.

GfordQC

09/22/2016, 11:14 AM

Any suggestions/Comments on plumbing. I did a quick model of it and i took a lot of ideas from junior2101's build.

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/FrontPlumb_zpshszba4ig.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/FrontPlumb_zpshszba4ig.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo FrontPlumb_zpshszba4ig.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/RearPlumb_zps4xw5cwqf.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/RearPlumb_zps4xw5cwqf.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo RearPlumb_zps4xw5cwqf.jpg"/></a>

CafeReef

09/22/2016, 11:25 AM

what kind of setup are you going to run? Steve is drilling for Herbie's now. If you plan to do a herbie, you will want to avoid 90 degree turns. makes it more difficult to get your siphon going which eliminates a quiet system (which is the purpose of doing a herbie). I have 45's on mine so my drains come straight down, 45 to the compartment I drain into then 45 again straight down.

GfordQC

09/22/2016, 12:27 PM

Yeah, Herbie is what i am going for. I like the bean animal, but didn't want the extra drilling and such. I'll try and modify my setup to have 45s instead of the 90s. Thanks!

ramasule

09/23/2016, 02:45 AM

Is that sketchup for the model?

GfordQC

09/23/2016, 04:24 AM

Is that sketchup for the model?

Not a sketch up its actually a Solidworks model. I'm an Engineer so i have access to 3D modeling equipment @ work.

GfordQC

09/23/2016, 04:31 AM

jemw

09/24/2016, 01:01 PM

Updated the plumbing to put in 45° in the inlet and added a union to the return in case I need to take the manifold out.

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/RearPlumb-45Inlet_zpsgxub7dwb.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/RearPlumb-45Inlet_zpsgxub7dwb.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo RearPlumb-45Inlet_zpsgxub7dwb.jpg"/></a>

Looking at the return line of the plumbing. Not shown is the pump to plumbing connection. I would suggest the soft stuff at BRS: http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/white-soft-silicone-tubing-sold-by-the-foot.html I substantially reduced the noise level from the return pump vibration to the sump tank with this.

It also appears that the emergency overflow feeds to the center chamber rather than the skimmer chamber. If you set the overflow up as recommended with a "trickle" flow to the emergency you might want to consider having it feed to the skimmer chamber as there will be some unwanted paritulates placed there. Also if you have a "nutrient export mode" for your power heads, there will be a lot of those nutrients which go to this connection as well. I have mine plumbed to the skimmer chamber, and had to add a sock to it for proper filtration.

I would also suggest that the connections ALL to the sump be through a soft-silicone-tube. Heat expands, cold contracts and with a hard connection, that will place stress on the three connections to the overflow area of the tank. And it will be more forgiving when you make the connections. Just my 2¢, hope it helps.

GfordQC

09/24/2016, 06:32 PM

Looking at the return line of the plumbing. Not shown is the pump to plumbing connection. I would suggest the soft stuff at BRS: http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/white-soft-silicone-tubing-sold-by-the-foot.html I substantially reduced the noise level from the return pump vibration to the sump tank with this.

It also appears that the emergency overflow feeds to the center chamber rather than the skimmer chamber. If you set the overflow up as recommended with a "trickle" flow to the emergency you might want to consider having it feed to the skimmer chamber as there will be some unwanted paritulates placed there. Also if you have a "nutrient export mode" for your power heads, there will be a lot of those nutrients which go to this connection as well. I have mine plumbed to the skimmer chamber, and had to add a sock to it for proper filtration.

I would also suggest that the connections ALL to the sump be through a soft-silicone-tube. Heat expands, cold contracts and with a hard connection, that will place stress on the three connections to the overflow area of the tank. And it will be more forgiving when you make the connections. Just my 2¢, hope it helps.

Yes I was going to do the soft hose for the return. Thanks for the ideas on the plumbing. I think that may be beneficial to do the plumbing in hose to the sump. I'll take a look at that in my model on Monday. May help to save me some $$ 2!

GfordQC

09/26/2016, 10:53 AM

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/fishplumbchange_zpsz1xsmlxl.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/fishplumbchange_zpsz1xsmlxl.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo fishplumbchange_zpsz1xsmlxl.jpg"/></a>

Got it i think. Removing the stuff in red and going to use the hose for the Blue. I don't have a model of a barbed fitting or i would put that in there. Also I have a reactor for GFO and Carbon if need. Steve said that he was putting to get the stand in this week so hopefully that happens!

Still a lot to do, but the kiddos/wife are getting ready to go. They like going to our LFS and looking at the different fish.

GfordQC

10/03/2016, 06:31 AM

Still waiting on the tank. Hope to hear somethign from Steve today or tomorrow. Kids and I worked on getting the rock cleaned. Did an acid bath which they enjoyed...and i got to say "Goggle up kids science is about to happen!" which is always a good day when you get to say that.

GfordQC

10/04/2016, 05:03 AM

Did some preliminary Aquascaping last night just to get an idea of what i want the tank to look like. I like #3, but i would move the arch back and bring the rock in behind forward. Also if you look and see a rock that just doesn't look right my helper was adding rocks as he saw fit lol..any comments are appreciated. Thanks for looking.

Aquascape 1

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/Aquascape1-Front_zpsekdo66w2.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/Aquascape1-Front_zpsekdo66w2.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Aquascape1-Front_zpsekdo66w2.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/Aquascape1-ISO_zpshm2ramzh.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/Aquascape1-ISO_zpshm2ramzh.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Aquascape1-ISO_zpshm2ramzh.jpg"/></a>

Aquascape 2

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/Aquascape2-Front_zps3k9gesiw.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/Aquascape2-Front_zps3k9gesiw.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Aquascape2-Front_zps3k9gesiw.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/Aquascape2-ISO_zpsqbgxoyaw.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/Aquascape2-ISO_zpsqbgxoyaw.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Aquascape2-ISO_zpsqbgxoyaw.jpg"/></a>

Aquascape 3

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/Aquascape3-Front_zpshqsnvpdf.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/Aquascape3-Front_zpshqsnvpdf.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Aquascape3-Front_zpshqsnvpdf.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/Aquascape3-ISO_zpsjrpat3hm.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/Aquascape3-ISO_zpsjrpat3hm.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Aquascape3-ISO_zpsjrpat3hm.jpg"/></a>

Wouldn't be right for me to take all of the credit for the work done. I did have a good helper for this endeavor.

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/AquascapeHelper_zpsxvafdf7e.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/AquascapeHelper_zpsxvafdf7e.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo AquascapeHelper_zpsxvafdf7e.jpg"/></a>

jemw

10/04/2016, 08:12 AM

Be sure to leave room for the algae magnetic glass cleaner to pass between the rock and the glass. It will be different depending on which cleaner you use.

GfordQC

10/04/2016, 09:43 AM

Be sure to leave room for the algae magnetic glass cleaner to pass between the rock and the glass. It will be different depending on which cleaner you use.

Yeah will do. I'm planning on getting a flipper. What do you use?

jemw

10/05/2016, 09:08 PM

Yeah will do. I'm planning on getting a flipper. What do you use?

I have a flipper also.

GfordQC

10/13/2016, 06:13 AM

Got all of my plumbing and other misc. items(Salt/Flipper Glass Cleaner/etc.) from BRS. Now just waiting on the tank to be done.

Rython

10/14/2016, 02:40 AM

I'm about to pull the trigger on a SCA cube, so following along to see what I can learn from your experience. Thanks for sharing!

GfordQC

10/14/2016, 04:11 AM

I'm about to pull the trigger on a SCA cube, so following along to see what I can learn from your experience. Thanks for sharing!

Welcome! Thanks for following along. SCA has been great! Steve emailed me last night and wants to check my tank/stand before it leaves so it should ship out on the 20th or 21st as he is out of the office currently.

Further Updates: I got my screen issue on my Apex Jr. figure out so that is good and that is all programmed up. Messed with the Hydra52HD yesterday as well and have a preliminary schedule for that ready to go as well.

sayitfast

10/14/2016, 05:31 PM

I'm liking the cube

GfordQC

10/14/2016, 07:04 PM

I'm liking the cube

Thanks! I'm looking forward to getting going for sure. The tank is really going to add another dimension to the main floor.

Reigun

10/16/2016, 01:45 PM

Following! I'm looking into upgrading my 50G to a 75G. It's the same width and depth, just 20" height vs. 24".

GfordQC

10/16/2016, 04:18 PM

Following! I'm looking into upgrading my 50G to a 75G. It's the same width and depth, just 20" height vs. 24".

Thanks for the follow! Hope to get moving quickly once the tank gets here. I have the rock in a trash can now with saltwater. I'm using HW Marinemix Reefer as my salt. I will be doing the cycle using the Red Sea Reef Marine Pro kit. Depending on time frame as to when I get cycled I'll be putting fish in. We have a Vaca planned in mid December so I may wait til after that to add fish.

GfordQC

10/20/2016, 04:25 AM

Steve emailed and the Tank is on its way! Should be here on Thursday 27th Woot!

Willyboz1

10/20/2016, 10:23 AM

Good luck with the set up. Looking good so far. I know that anxious waiting feeling...

GfordQC

10/21/2016, 11:07 AM

Now that the tank is on the way I wanted to possibly get others thoughts on the fish stock list. I was looking to add a Wrasse as well, but didn't know if the would go with what i have below or if i'm on the borderline of having it too full. Any thoughts?

Osc. Clowns x2
Midas Blenny
Yellow Watchman Goby
Carberryi Anthias x2

falcona2552

10/21/2016, 11:23 AM

GfordQC

10/21/2016, 11:58 AM

Order your fish and Observe/QT them while your display tank cycles, I would however suggest adding fish progressively. My experience has been with diverse species a proper QT will eliminate a lot of frustration. Many do not QT, but I find the risk too great for my own tastes.

Yeah i plan on doing QT. I have two 20gal Long tanks that i plan on using. We have a vaca planned for Mid. Dec. so i'm kinda waiting to see how long it takes me to get everything wet in order to decide whether i get any fish before that or wait.

falcona2552

10/21/2016, 02:57 PM

Yeah i plan on doing QT. I have two 20gal Long tanks that i plan on using. We have a vaca planned for Mid. Dec. so i'm kinda waiting to see how long it takes me to get everything wet in order to decide whether i get any fish before that or wait.

You are well on your way to a great system

GfordQC

10/21/2016, 08:19 PM

You are well on your way to a great system

Thanks! It's been a while and this will be my first reef so I'm taking it slow.

GfordQC

10/27/2016, 10:21 AM

Tank being delivered on Monday! Going to begin making water this weekend. Plan on getting this thing cycling by next weekend.

GfordQC

10/31/2016, 01:25 PM

Woot! Tank arrived. Packaging was excellent! Tank and stand were in great condition. Working on getting the stand sealed, inside painted etc. got the skimmer assembled and it's running in the trash can with the rock. I have it running in the max position right now. Water ready I have around 106 gal of rodi ready.

GfordQC

11/01/2016, 04:30 AM

CafeReef

11/01/2016, 10:22 AM

man I wish I got a 90 now...

GfordQC

11/01/2016, 10:41 AM

man I wish I got a 90 now...

HA HA, yeah i was talking with my boss yesterday (he has a 72 Gal Bowfront SW) telling him all of what i was doing and he said, "I officially hate you" lol

GfordQC

11/02/2016, 06:03 PM

Stand inside painted. Sump cleaned and water tested. Put in place extra help comes tomorrow to put the tank on top. Inching closer and closer. Should be wet by the end of the weekend hopefully.

GfordQC

11/03/2016, 04:33 AM

GfordQC

11/07/2016, 05:15 AM

Got quite a bit done this weekend. Got all of the plumbing done. Some electrical components in and wires run. A bit of wire management needs to be done. Sand rinsed and in and rock aquascaped. Water going in and light being installed tonight!!!

Other To-Do's:
ATO setup
Reactor installed
Doser Installed

Pictures:

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/Tankwork%202_zpsatlvqmpe.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/Tankwork%202_zpsatlvqmpe.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Tankwork 2_zpsatlvqmpe.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/Tankwork%207_zpskkqkdsf2.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/Tankwork%207_zpskkqkdsf2.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Tankwork 7_zpskkqkdsf2.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/Tankwork%208_zpsnj46gj3x.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/Tankwork%208_zpsnj46gj3x.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Tankwork 8_zpsnj46gj3x.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/Tankwork%209_zpspsitu3dc.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/Tankwork%209_zpspsitu3dc.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Tankwork 9_zpspsitu3dc.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/Tankwork%201_zpsf0vvzwwr.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/Tankwork%201_zpsf0vvzwwr.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Tankwork 1_zpsf0vvzwwr.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/Tankwork%204_zpspxlr8ec8.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/Tankwork%204_zpspxlr8ec8.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Tankwork 4_zpspxlr8ec8.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/Tankwork%205_zpsqrfqqbrn.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/Tankwork%205_zpsqrfqqbrn.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Tankwork 5_zpsqrfqqbrn.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/Tankwork%206_zpszzwwxwsq.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/Tankwork%206_zpszzwwxwsq.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Tankwork 6_zpszzwwxwsq.jpg"/></a>

GfordQC

11/08/2016, 05:29 AM

Light goes up tonight! Apologize for the crappy pics. I plan on using my Canon T2i and Lightroom 3 once things get going. I put some salt in last night but plan on doing the rest today.

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/FTS%2011_8_16%201_zpscr8xqig3.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/FTS%2011_8_16%201_zpscr8xqig3.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo FTS 11_8_16 1_zpscr8xqig3.jpg"/></a>

GfordQC

11/09/2016, 05:31 AM

Light installed last night AI Hydra52HD. Nothing to difficult took probably 30 min all together. Right now i have it setup as the LPS/Soft setup from Ecotech. Notice I was getting quite a bit of micro bubbles this morning from my skimmer off so i can correct that later. Put in the 8x8x1 Marinepure block in the sump. I get the Ottoman to hide my ATO container today so my plan is to get that setup at some point.

Starting the cycle today using the Red Sea Reef Mature Pro kit so according to that i'm 21 days out from some fishy friends. These are my first pics with of the tank with the DSLR need to visit the Photography forums to get some pointers.

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/FTS_11_9_16%201_zpsqixxqyex.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/FTS_11_9_16%201_zpsqixxqyex.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo FTS_11_9_16 1_zpsqixxqyex.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/FTS_11_9_16203_zpsnneasznn.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/FTS_11_9_16203_zpsnneasznn.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo FTS_11_9_16203_zpsnneasznn.jpg"/></a>

GfordQC

11/09/2016, 10:43 AM

Thinking of adding a bi-color blenny to this list. Does anyone see a possible issue with the Midas Blenny?

Osc. Clowns x2
Midas Blenny
Yellow Watchman Goby
Carberryi Anthias x2

GfordQC

11/10/2016, 05:31 AM

Got the Tunes Osomolator ATO installed and lines run. Need to adjust the head pressure on the pump I believe as it wouldn't pump in water when it said it was on. I need to some trouble shooting on that.

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/ATO%201_zps1ibkbjcu.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/ATO%201_zps1ibkbjcu.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo ATO 1_zps1ibkbjcu.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/ATO%202_zps6adcpzpb.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/ATO%202_zps6adcpzpb.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo ATO 2_zps6adcpzpb.jpg"/></a>

Going to add in filter floss to the sump. This will hopefully help with the microbubbles coming from the skimmer(Skimmer is of currently, but the Cycle kit states to have it on). Started the cycle. Need to clean up some wires as well.

GfordQC

11/11/2016, 01:44 PM

Got the ATO working solidly and the filter pad in the sump to help remove some of the microbubbles. After some research looks like the SCA-302 need to be around 8" depth. Currently it is in around 10" so i'll be looking to raise that this weekend as well as mounting the Deluxe BRS Reactor.

Hopefully i will get a mount for my Jebao Doser. I'm having work cut me one out of aluminum. add to the fact we got a 3D printer at work and i'm gonna pay for them to make me an overflow cover.

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/DoserStand_zpsliyqb7bq.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/DoserStand_zpsliyqb7bq.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo DoserStand_zpsliyqb7bq.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/OverflowCover_zpscmqgzogn.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/OverflowCover_zpscmqgzogn.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo OverflowCover_zpscmqgzogn.jpg"/></a>

Did my first tests yesterday per the Mature reef program. Ph was around 7.6 and the all was 9. On the all does anyone use a Red Sea kit? On the card it looks like you add one drop and then look at the sample. Then add the remaining until it changes to the end. If I count the first drop the all is 9, but if not the all is 8. So is it the total amount of drops.

So nice to have a tank in the house. Had a guy come in for turning on the security system in our house and first thing noticed was the tank lol...exactly the reaction that i wanted.

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/TankSleepingGus_zpslu1gjid8.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/TankSleepingGus_zpslu1gjid8.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo TankSleepingGus_zpslu1gjid8.jpg"/></a>

GfordQC

11/14/2016, 10:15 AM

Nothing to crazy happened this weekend. Unfortunately didn't get a chance to place the reactor installed, but the cycle continues tank is super cloudy due to the bacterial bloom. Doing a 5% water change today based on the Reef mature program.

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/Cycle_zpswoy69b3x.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/Cycle_zpswoy69b3x.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Cycle_zpswoy69b3x.jpg"/></a>

GfordQC

11/16/2016, 11:42 AM

Water change went well...all results were within what the program stated it should be. Got the overflow cover printed and will install it tonight. Also got my doser stand made as well. Check params on Thursday should be seeing nitrates at that point.

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/OverflowCvr%202_zpsqdc4q0ar.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/OverflowCvr%202_zpsqdc4q0ar.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo OverflowCvr 2_zpsqdc4q0ar.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/OverflowCvr%201_zpsinsq81rf.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/OverflowCvr%201_zpsinsq81rf.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo OverflowCvr 1_zpsinsq81rf.jpg"/></a>

GfordQC

11/17/2016, 05:29 AM

Got the overflow cover installed. Need to sand down on the inside of one side to get it to sit down on the overflow.

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/111616%201_zpszjb499ws.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/111616%201_zpszjb499ws.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo 111616 1_zpszjb499ws.jpg"/></a>

Doser install and some lines run to the containers. Need to get 1/4" line in order for it to go through my line holder.

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/111616%202_zpsdh2c80f1.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/111616%202_zpsdh2c80f1.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo 111616 2_zpsdh2c80f1.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/111616%203_zpsqavwgyjc.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/111616%203_zpsqavwgyjc.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo 111616 3_zpsqavwgyjc.jpg"/></a>

Algae bloom has subsided now the water is really clear. Testing for Ammonia, Nitites, and Nitrates tonight to see how the cycle is going. The NO3-Po4x is really working as there hasn't been a hint of algae anywhere.

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/111616%207_zpspubnzyxb.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/111616%207_zpspubnzyxb.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo 111616 7_zpspubnzyxb.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/111616%206_zpsnkqggrcz.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/111616%206_zpsnkqggrcz.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo 111616 6_zpsnkqggrcz.jpg"/></a>

GfordQC

11/21/2016, 05:27 AM

Got some snail and crab friends this weekend. Also got my reactor mounted and lines run. I don't have it turned on just yet. I plan on hitting up the LFS and getting my first fish along with some more CUC as the LFS didn't have to much in stock.

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/112116%203_zpsqqtsgmpv.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/112116%203_zpsqqtsgmpv.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo 112116 3_zpsqqtsgmpv.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/112116%202_zpsiyfq0j7w.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/112116%202_zpsiyfq0j7w.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo 112116 2_zpsiyfq0j7w.jpg"/></a>

GfordQC

11/28/2016, 05:29 AM

Had several days off during the holiday hope everyone had good Thanksgiving. So i have possibly made my first mistake. Went to a black Friday sale at my LFS and picked up a few more snails, a cleaner shrimp, and...a scooter blenny :uhoh3:. I blame it on the early morning and the fact that I couldn't get on the internet to look at a profile of the little guy. So upon reading the information i don't know how long i will be able to keep the little guy. Beautiful fish, but very picky apparently. I have ordered 6000+ pods from the algaebarn so that should at least sustain him until i figure out what to do next. From reading it appears that they are easier to get to eat frozen mysis than a mandarin, but no luck so far. I have been trying to get him to eat LRS Reef Frenzy but no luck as of yet.

In equipment news i got water running through the reactor (no media yet) and am working on a mount for the fuge light as i have also got some cheato coming from reef cleaners. Starting to get some diatoms on the sand and i have to do a 5% water change tonight. I have been able to take some pics with my Canon T2i and do some processing with Lightroom so i hope to have those pics up tomorrow.

GfordQC

11/30/2016, 05:17 AM

Some Pics...Been trying to get a good pic of the Scooter but to no avail. cheato and 6000 pods are going to arrive on Thursday. Also raised my light to around 12" AWL and ordered a Artfully acrylic lid. That wont arrive until after the new year which after that is when I plan on getting the clownfish.

The reddish hugh below is the diatoms or cyano not sure which at this point. It has gotten a bit worse but nothing major at this point.

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/1122016-4_zpsqni3ssil.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/1122016-4_zpsqni3ssil.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo 1122016-4_zpsqni3ssil.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/1122016-3_zps3esjve9y.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/1122016-3_zps3esjve9y.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo 1122016-3_zps3esjve9y.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/1122016-2_zpstmd5pvkw.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/1122016-2_zpstmd5pvkw.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo 1122016-2_zpstmd5pvkw.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/1122016-1_zpsckvnfh5k.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/1122016-1_zpsckvnfh5k.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo 1122016-1_zpsckvnfh5k.jpg"/></a>

GfordQC

12/02/2016, 11:23 AM

Got the Pods in last night and the chaeto in the sump. My small diatom blume went away. Sand is looking pretty clean and rocks are not to bad. I think i can see some coraline algae grow...my daughter class algae...allergie lol. Had to correct her on that one lol. Cleaner shrimp malted the other do so all is going well.

Don't plan on getting the Clownfish until after i get my Artfully Acrylic cover comes in sometime after the new year.

Justin330

12/02/2016, 01:00 PM

Nice set up have here.really like the aquascape

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

GfordQC

12/02/2016, 01:31 PM

Nice set up have here.really like the aquascape

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Thanks!

Justin330

12/02/2016, 01:41 PM

Thanks!
No problem

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

GfordQC

12/12/2016, 08:14 AM

Nothing crazy to report at this point...Scooter blenny is doing fine poking around at the pods. Fuge is good looks like i am getting some growth from the cheato. Did a ~20% water change on Saturday morning all went swimmingly there. Changed filter socks and skimmer cup and did some tests.

Results:
Salinity: 1.025
Alk: 8.4
Ca: 435
Mg: 1500
Nitrate:20
Nitrite: Didn't test
Ammonia: Didn't test
Phosphate: 0
pH: 8.0

Skimmer is doing good even at 10" (Just getting what i need to raise it to the 8" it is recommended for).

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/Skimmer_zpsmklkolon.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/Skimmer_zpsmklkolon.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Skimmer_zpsmklkolon.jpg"/></a>

Going on Vaca on Friday so i'll be gone for a week. Look to add some more fish and my first coral once i return. I think i'm going to start out with either a frogspawn or a torch.

GfordQC

12/14/2016, 07:07 AM

Unfortunately, I found my scooter blenny sitting on top of my overflow cover this morning.:( He must have jumped last night. Sucks def. will be waiting for the Artfully Acrylic cover to come in before getting any more additions.

Reeftank89

12/17/2016, 05:00 PM

I like #2

Reeftank89

12/17/2016, 05:02 PM

what light are you using ?

GfordQC

12/18/2016, 10:58 PM

what light are you using ?

Hydra52HD about 12" off the water.

z3speed4me

01/03/2017, 08:45 AM

What are the dimensions of the overflow box? I had a cover made by SCA but it has a slight "bow" to the acrylic. Wondering if you could have another made like yours if the box size is the same...

Also please post impressions of the lid when it arrives, I want to order one for my 75, currently using a BRS DIY screen top so I have "something" to keep everyone inside.

GfordQC

01/03/2017, 11:14 AM

GfordQC

01/03/2017, 11:19 AM

Tank Update:

Nothing crazy going on. Dealing with a bit of Cyano that grew quite a bit while i was gone on Vacation. Did two water changes ~18gal each and siphoned the sand and below off the algae on the rocks. Not feeding the tank to much as there is only a cleaner shrimp in there along with some snails and a few crabs.

Went to a few LFS while i was off to look for either a lawnmower blenny or a Bi-Color with no luck.

GfordQC

01/17/2017, 06:34 AM

Most of my Cyano is gone from the rocks. Working on removing the remaining from the sand. Hope to get a sand sifting starfish at some point to help that out. AA(Artfully Acrylic) lid is on its way should be here on Wed. so expect some pics from that.

A friend of mine is getting out of the hobby and wants me to take his fish. He has a mandarin, 1 Clown(He had one jump), and a blue Tang. Not sold on the Tang. I may take that one and just sell it my tank is way to small for that fella. He also has quite a few RBTA, which i'm considering 1 or 2, but his has split quite a bit. Trying to get to see his tank sometime this week to take a look.

I would take a pic, but not a lot to look at just Rock, Snails, and crabs lol.o_O

marleesan

01/17/2017, 07:38 AM

I would advise against the mandarin as well, your tank is not established enough for one

GfordQC

01/17/2017, 08:35 AM

I would advise against the mandarin as well, your tank is not established enough for one

Yeah that was my first concern. Which is why i wanted to take a look at the little guy. He's had him for a while in only a 72 Bowfront so i'm wondering if he is eating frozen food(Not sure). We shall see i don't want to be rash about anything that is for sure.

GfordQC

01/19/2017, 05:25 AM

Lid is in! Fits like a glove. Only problem i had which wasn't a problem with the lid, but my overflow cover doesn't fit perfectly around the overflow so it stick up a bit. I need to modify that in order to get that to move down. Otherwise the lid is great.

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/FTS_1_19_17%201_zpsj1k85vxk.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/FTS_1_19_17%201_zpsj1k85vxk.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo FTS_1_19_17 1_zpsj1k85vxk.jpg"/></a>

Here is the FTS..pretty bare, but looking to go pickup some frags this weekend at the LFS. I turned up the white to take the picture as i cannot use the computer at the moment as our son decided to play red rover with our charger and broke it ;). New one should be in on Friday.

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/FTS_1_19_17%202_zpsqsdec0kb.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/FTS_1_19_17%202_zpsqsdec0kb.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo FTS_1_19_17 2_zpsqsdec0kb.jpg"/></a>

GfordQC

01/23/2017, 05:25 AM

Got the lid and so now we can get some fish! Went to the LFS and picked up a Starry Blenny and a Hammer Frag.

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/Starry%20Blenny_zpslprnwtxl.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/Starry%20Blenny_zpslprnwtxl.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Starry Blenny_zpslprnwtxl.jpg"/></a>

Nice looking fish when the lights are on especially. The Hammer frag is two heads, but i believe i may have cracked one of the heads when i was taking it off of the frag plug. I put some IC Gel on it this morning so hopefully it survives.

GfordQC

01/26/2017, 11:54 AM

Here's a pic of the first coral. Little Hammer around 1" on both heads. One head the lower skeleton cracked and i had to superglue it together. Seems to be holding up so far. Gonna watch this one for a bit and i look to get some more LPS and a few test SPS in the coming months. My friend went out of the country on a trip so i'm waiting on his return before bringing over his fish.

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/Hammer_1-25-17_zpsibu5lm6o.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/Hammer_1-25-17_zpsibu5lm6o.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Hammer_1-25-17_zpsibu5lm6o.jpg"/></a>

Oeste

01/26/2017, 12:10 PM

great build!

GfordQC

01/26/2017, 01:45 PM

great build!

Thanks!

TrowelTrades

01/30/2017, 01:54 PM

Following- I will be downgrading from a 120g Tech to something similar to this. The 90g Rimless from SCA what I'm leaning to.

GfordQC

01/31/2017, 06:58 AM

Following- I will be downgrading from a 120g Tech to something similar to this. The 90g Rimless from SCA what I'm leaning to.

Welcome! I hope to get some things moving here quickly plan on purchasing a few frags online(combo of SPS and LPS) in Feb. and getting some more fish. The 90 Cube from SCA has been a great tank. Looks and function have been good. Steve was great and has always been quick with responses.

GfordQC

02/07/2017, 05:11 AM

Some Pics...Getting the new additions this weekend.

The algae that I am currently dealing with ATM. Goes away pretty quickly once the cool white goes out on the light. I believe its diatoms...what say u?

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/GfordQC2617-3_zpshh9ozfuf.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/GfordQC2617-3_zpshh9ozfuf.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo GfordQC2617-3_zpshh9ozfuf.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/GfordQC2617-4_zpsyo1nwxip.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/GfordQC2617-4_zpsyo1nwxip.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo GfordQC2617-4_zpsyo1nwxip.jpg"/></a>

FTS..Coral is moved onto the first rock on the left of this shot.
<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/GfordQC2617-2_zpsnohrxgjs.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/GfordQC2617-2_zpsnohrxgjs.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo GfordQC2617-2_zpsnohrxgjs.jpg"/></a>

Nirethell

02/16/2017, 06:35 PM

This looks fantastic, you really did a great job!

GfordQC

02/16/2017, 06:43 PM

This looks fantastic, you really did a great job!

Thanks! Hope to get some more pics up tonight. Got a red Monti cap and a green digitata last weekend.

GfordQC

02/16/2017, 07:53 PM

New Photos from some new items!
<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/GfordQC21617-1_zpsikwdymoc.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/GfordQC21617-1_zpsikwdymoc.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo GfordQC21617-1_zpsikwdymoc.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/GfordQC21617-2_zpswirvvy2m.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/GfordQC21617-2_zpswirvvy2m.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo GfordQC21617-2_zpswirvvy2m.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/GfordQC21617-3_zpsfqkz4s2x.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/GfordQC21617-3_zpsfqkz4s2x.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo GfordQC21617-3_zpsfqkz4s2x.jpg"/></a>

He's not new, but i finally got a good fit...
<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/GfordQC21617-4_zps8sybltji.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/GfordQC21617-4_zps8sybltji.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo GfordQC21617-4_zps8sybltji.jpg"/></a>

FTS
<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/GfordQC21617-7_zpswbc7dwl3.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/GfordQC21617-7_zpswbc7dwl3.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo GfordQC21617-7_zpswbc7dwl3.jpg"/></a>

GfordQC

03/21/2017, 05:21 AM

Picked up an Acan last week. Settling in well. I started Dosing Alk and Calc. and those numbers are steady at 9.1 and 420. Was dealing with Dinos(You can see on the Acan pic) and i started Dino-X on Friday. Things are starting to clear up already so i'll continue to monitor.

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/GfordQC32017-1_zpspo3qazvr.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/GfordQC32017-1_zpspo3qazvr.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo GfordQC32017-1_zpspo3qazvr.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/GfordQC32017-2_zpsjlq9aey2.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/GfordQC32017-2_zpsjlq9aey2.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo GfordQC32017-2_zpsjlq9aey2.jpg"/></a>

SPS is showing about a 1/8" of growth.
<a href="http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Gfordqc/media/GfordQC32017-3_zpsznvvc89w.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7/Gfordqc/GfordQC32017-3_zpsznvvc89w.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo GfordQC32017-3_zpsznvvc89w.jpg"/></a>

GfordQC

09/05/2017, 11:15 AM

Long time no update...

Tank is doing great got through the uglys for the most part. Got some more coral. Green Frogspawn, Eagle Eye Zoas, & some Artic Zoas. I will take some pictures tonight and try and post. Coral are growing well the monticap has grown nicely and is almost doubled in size. The Green Digitata has added length, however i did hit it once during a water change and broke one of the branches off. More to come...

GfordQC

09/06/2017, 04:45 AM

I ordered 3 Lyretail Anthias from LiveAquaria yesterday. They should be here tomorrow (1 male and 2 female) Going into QT for a month or so before going in here. Need to update my cleanup crew as well. Probably will go with reefcleaners for that duty.

Here are some pictures...
My two clowns and the cleaner shrimp. The big clown is a bully of course and is constantly monitoring where the Wrasse goes. Clown must have caught him at some point cause he is missing one part of his tail. Frogspawn is doing well moving him around a bit to get the best location.

GfordQC

12/11/2017, 05:50 AM

I haven't updated this in a while...Time for a report.

Mostly everything has been steady. I have dealt with a few instances of some hair algae which i have removed with flucanzole. Otherwise I have added some acro's and a chalice. I did end up losing 2 (1 female and 1 male) anthias in QT, but i picked up two females from my LFS as replacements and everyone is doing well.

Biggest project was adding T5s in addition to my AI 52HD which i had made a canopy to house off of that and hung that this weekend.

MK3_LUV

06/29/2018, 03:43 PM

Updates?

GfordQC

07/15/2018, 04:25 PM

Updates?

Well it's been a struggle lately...mostly dealing with algae issues due to TDS creep from my containers holding my fresh and salt water. I'm working on a plan to fix that. Mainly i know i have 0 TDS going in, but when i check it a few weeks after i'm over 30 TDS:hmm3:. That has led to algae issues from what seems to be every variety which is painful to look at. Fish wise my large clown when on a protective murder spree (3 total - Carp. Wrasse and two Anthias) so now he is back at the fish store.

With my algae issues i have lost a good bit of coral: Chalice, Red/Green Acan, Green birdsnest, pink birdsnest. It's been a struggle here lately. I did a Triton test which found i had copper and zinc in the tank so that just tops things off. I've never added copper to the tank so i'm thinking it came from my previous fuge light that i had which rusted a bit i think and fell in the tank before i caught it.

Trying to keep my head above water.