Steelerfan's 120g construction & set-up. (Yes I know, another 120)

[STEELERFAN747]

Well, first of all let me start off by giving credit to those who deserve it.
1. First and foremost, I want to thank God for allowing me the strength and determination to tackle something like this and the funds to be able to purchase it all.

2. My wife, for putting up with me and this crazy hobby and for complaining more than I would like (regarding all the mess I've been making), but less than I thought she would.

3. My 4 yr old son, for loving fish & corals as much as I do and giving me another excuse to go to the lfs. (Honey, our son wants to see fishes again! (hehehhe)

4. Marino420td, for the inspiration to make something nicer and out of the ordinary. (I can only hope mine comes out half as nice as yours)

5. My brother, for helping me in many ways with the construction of this stand.

6. Sam (Holyscoly) for helping me set-up my current tank and yes, you will be helping me set-up the new one as well.
And for just being a great friend.

and
7. Felix (Zoos/reefsavy) for all of your advice and QUALITY support. And I'm sure he'll be helping with the new set-up as well (he loves all that stuff)

Now on to the show.

My current tank, a 90g mostly lps & softies

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000459.jpg


The whole thing started because I was not happy with my current stand (it is extremely short, which means you have to bend down in order to see the tank)

I was originally going to have a new stand made (same style as lfs, just taller) until I saw a thread by Marino420td and the new stand he had created. (absolutely gorgeous)
I immediately mentioned to him that with his permission, I was going to steal his design and he said, "go ahead, the reason I made this thread was to inspire people"
And boy, did he ever.

Then I realized, if I'm gonna go through all the trouble of making a new stand, might as well upgrade.

Well I was all set to begin when I realized not only had I never made anything like this before but I didnt own any tools.

So, off I went to the local HD and purchased some clamps 2x4's and this table saw which I purchased for $99.00.




All I can say is make sure you take correct measurements. I measured everything about 3 times and came up with a game plan. Then when it came to it, I noticed that some of my measurements were off. (back to the drawing board)

I also noticed, my saw was not cutting straight. (back to HD for more wood) (hahaha)
After a few adjustments we were on our way.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000403.jpg

The first couple of steps

http://http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000404.jpg

I had never really used clamps before but let me tell you, they sure have come in handy.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000405.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000441.jpg

Here are the first signs that this thing is starting to come together. It is shown here with all 4 corners and top supports.
On top as well as in the inside, will sit a 3/4 sheet of maple.

Originally I was going to use pine wood (to cut costs) but was advised by various folks to go with maple. (they say pine seems to warp over time)

I decided that eventhough treated pine is beautiful I would place the treated side towards the inside. That way the inside will be nice and the outside could be stained darker.

Other angles


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000442.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000443.jpg

Here is the inner construction, pretty much completed.
I have followed Marino420td's design to a T. And eventhough I do feel the 2x4 supports are a bit much (at this point the stand weighs a ton, I can only imagine how much it will weigh once I have put on the outer skins) it does make me sleep better knowing that it is rock solid and It should hold whatever weight I decide to put on it.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000444.jpg

I dont have to much time to work on this, (work & family take it all) but I will try to update as soon as I can.

I have already put the top cover on and will begin the first sanding. I have this Thursday off, so I know I will be hard at work trying to get ahead and snapping additional pics.

So long for now. :fish1: :fish2:

[mg426]

Nice looking job!!

[dermer]

lookin good im glad im not the only steelers fan on here the season is far from over

[drummereef]

That stand looks solid! :)

[STEELERFAN747]

Thanks guys, and yes drummerreef, it is extremely solid.

[STEELERFAN747]

By the way, I noticed some of the pictures did not post so I will try and get those up as well.

[Icehockey_whino]

Man that stand looks like it could withstand a hurricane.

I'm originally a pittsburgh guy (south hills). You're right... the season is far from over.

Dr. Kurt

[MCary]

If you don't mind a suggestion. You might want to add a couple more studs and a few more triangle braces. It looks like the stand as it is now could only support a 100 gallon tank. And a car. Oh and a full cement truck, and possibly a cubic foot of dark matter from the inside of a black hole.

[aharrow]

Hey Steeler fan, how did you post your pictures in your post? I got mine uploaded to my gallery but can't figure out how to put in the post itself. I built mine much like yours, which could hold an entire house on it. Great job so far.

[aharrow]

another opinion for you Steeler fan. I used pine on mine to keep costs down and then was told by my kitchen cabinet maker (after the fact of course) who just so happened to be at my house fixing a cabinet that my grains were running in two different directions and that I could not stain it because of that. So now I have to paint mine black. He also told me that you can't have any cut edges exposed because it takes stain differently than the front of the board therefore making it difficult to match the stain. If you do want to stain it, he told me to make sure the grains of all the woods run the same way and to not have any exposed edges of wood that you cut. Hope this helps

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8319718#post8319718 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by aharrow
Hey Steeler fan, how did you post your pictures in your post? I got mine uploaded to my gallery but can't figure out how to put in the post itself. I built mine much like yours, which could hold an entire house on it. Great job so far.

Thanks aharrow for all your advice. I certainly will try my best to make sure the grain goes in the same direction, it may be a little hard for me though considering pretty much all the pieces have been cut already and I am just waiting to put it all together.

As far as posting pictures, I had to upload mine to photobucket since you can only post a picture that comes with a url address. It was a little time consumming to say the least. (that and as you can tell the first couple did not even come out)

[HolyScoly]

HEY REY I WOULD LEND YOU MY TOOLS TO WORK ON YOUR STAND BUT IM AFRAID THEY WILL BREAK JUST BY TOUCHING YOUR STAND.
LOOKS LIKE YOU WILL BE MOVING THAT STAND BY YOURSELF WHEN YOUR DONE WITH IT LMAO. BTW DONT BUILT THE CANOPY LIKE YOUR STAND OR YOU WIL CRUSH YOU TANK LOL.

[STEELERFAN747]

Here is the picture of my current tank

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000459.jpg

[STEELERFAN747]

Well, I was hard at work on Thursday just like I said I would be. This thing is taking a little longer than I had hoped. The good news is I am starting to see it develope now a little bit more.

Here is a picture of the stand with the top and first face connected.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000485.jpg

This thing is starting to get a little heavy. I am forced to use a hand truck in order to move it around. I tried moving it around with out it and nearly threw out my back.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000486.jpg

Initially I was going to use comercial grade staples to join the ends together, but after seeing my mentor use a pocket jig and seeing pop up more frequently I decided this was the way to go. I picked up mine at Lowes for $20.00. Word of advice, if you plan on using one of these, make sure you have a little spare time on your hands.
Not only does it take some time to drill the holes but it took forever for anyone at Lowes to even know what I was talking about, let alone find one.

However, I am glad I decided to stick with it (took 3 trips to Lowes in order to find it) as I really like the way it looks (nice and neat)


Here are a couple of shots with all 3 faces attached. Slowly but surely we are starting to make alittle progress.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000487.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000488.jpg


Not only is it extremely hot out, but the weather seems to be playing a little game called, LET ME SEE IF I CAN CONFUSE AND **** OFF STEELERFAN, every 15 minutes or so it would start sprinkleing and I would have to cart the stand back in doors.

The rain would then last about 5-10 minutes and the sun would come back out. This went on for just about the entire day.



Here we have the first shot of the moldings that will adorn the stand. (I am starting to get excited as I am able to get alittle tease of things to come.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000489.jpg

Man. Although really nice, these moldings are a pain in the arce.
Every time I cut one, either I cut it the wrong size or angle.
I really need to start getting the hang of this or this is really gonna get expensive.

All and all I like the way things are going. I know I would have paid alot less had I decided to go with a regular lfs stand but I feel once it's done it will be completely worth it.

Besides, had I done that then I wouldnt have been able to do a thread and share it with you guys.


:fish1: :fish2:

[STEELERFAN747]

Well, here is the first pic which gives us an idea of how the stand will look. It has taken alot for me to get to this point, but WOW, I am really starting to get excited.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000490.jpg


Well, all in all it was a very long, tireing and trying day. I awoke this morning sore all over.

My wife however is really starting to get excited about the stand as well. She initially was alittle skeptical on wether or not I would be able to build it.

Unfortunantly my next day off is not until Sunday, but I will try and get a little work in on Saturday.

So what do you guys think so far?

[STEELERFAN747]

Now eventhough the stand and canopy have not been completed, I wanted to share a couple pics of a few items that will make up some of the equipment.

First of all my Euro-reef.

Or as a friend of mine says "You just cannot comprehend the quality of this protein skimmer"

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000482.jpg

I decided to go with a Panworld pump to run my sump/refugium

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000484.jpg

And last but not least, a little guy who needs no introduction;

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000483.jpg

I actually just placed an order for a 2nd Tunze which hopefully wont take to long to arrive.

I figure with both Tunze's and the panworld running I should be getting about 3900 gph or so.
Not only do I hope that will be sufficient but I hope it does not kick up to much sand.

Well guys, That's all the pics I have for now but I should be posting more between Saturday and Sunday.

[STEELERFAN747]

Oh, by the way, I almost forgot. I placed an order for the doors today. Now eventhough I am not there yet, I figured might as well save some time.

They will be solid maple, raised panel and untreated so I could stain them. I will post pics of them once they arrive.

I really thought I was going to get away cheap until I ordered the doors and the price of the stand and canopy doubled with tha addition of the doors. (oh well) we all know to well this hobby is not cheap.:fish1: :fish2:

[HolyScoly]

looking good brother i really like it so far i think its going to be really nice. i just think you might kill the look of it with a 16 inch canopy id rather see you go with a 12 imo.

[STEELERFAN747]

No way. 16" will be just fine.

[cato]

Sweet job. Along for the ride.:)

[atty]

looken good.

[phisquare]

Lovin the tank styling and trim, looks really solid. Can't wait to see this thing develop. Oh, and by the way, GO CHARGERS ;) (gee I wonder where I live)!

[fras]

fantastic work on the stand, things are really shaping up!

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8337670#post8337670 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by chirocato
Sweet job. Along for the ride.:)

Thanks, Ive been following yours as well, and may I say its looking awesome. When can we expect to see your tank?

[STEELERFAN747]

Well, I tried working on the stand today, but it's hard when you dont get home from work untill after 5:30 and you have to make time for the wife and kid.

All and all, I did manage to get about an hours worth of work in. Unfortunantly, when you are cutting moldings, you take more time getting measurements than actualy working.

Well, here is a picture of all 3 moldings that will adorn the stand.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000492.jpg

I really like these moldings and was extremely happy that everything was going smooth today. (Hey, maybe I'm starting to get the hang of this)

Well, tomorrow I think we will be going out as a family so I am not sure how much work I will be able to get in, but we shall see.
Incredibly enough I dont even think I will be seeing my game tomorrow.

[theatrus]

Your stand is about 10x better finished then mine. I have literally a bunch of 4x4s and 2x4s and some cross braces, and then got too much into the tank to care about the stand ;)

[STEELERFAN747]

Well, here are a couple of pics of the right side of the stand. I was able to finish this side atleast.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000491.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000494.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000495.jpg

Everything is starting to move along, hopefully I will be able to finish the left side by Monday at the latest and then I can get started on the canopy.

Right now I'm trying to get this done as quickly as possible as i need to sand down the stand once all moldings are affixed, then I will put one final layer adorning the top trim and then make all preperations to start the staining process.:fish1: :fish2:

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8342200#post8342200 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by theatrus
Your stand is about 10x better finished then mine. I have literally a bunch of 4x4s and 2x4s and some cross braces, and then got too much into the tank to care about the stand ;)

Thanks theatrus, I appreciate that and may I say your display looks great and the zoos are awesome.

[Zoos]

Hey Ray, everything looks good. by the way let me know when you're bringing me the tank/sump, so we can start working on it.

Felix.

[STEELERFAN747]

Well, after taking Sunday off to go to the Florida keys (Key West) I was back at work, bright and early.

Here is the left side completed.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000619.jpg

With that completion, I was able to go on to something else. I went on to working on the interior flooring.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000620.jpg

It was a bit of a pain having to cut all the different angles with the jigsaw but all and all, I was happy with the results.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000621.jpg

[A\/enger]

tagging on. Looking to set up a 120 soon.

[STEELERFAN747]

Well here is the first picture of the tank on the stand.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000622.jpg








O.k. so i am just kidding, that was actually a 50g breeder which I plan on using as my sump/refugium.

Behind the wall where my tank is going, is the kitchen and here in Florida we are not even lucky enough to have basements.

I wish I had a seperate room (like some of you) where I could store all my equipment, but I am just not that lucky.
Unfortunantly all my equipment has to go underneath the stand so a 50g was the largest tank I could fit


Here is a picture of the skimmer inside the sump. There was no actual reason for this except I really just wanted to see what it would look like. (couldnt help it)


Now here is a picture of the sump in it's natural habitat.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000626.jpg

Not only did I want to see what it would look like, but I also wanted to make sure it would fit. (the sump is 36" long and I have a 32 1/4" opening)

I was able to breath a sigh of relief once I saw that it fit.


Heres a couple of pics showing the sump and pump.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000627.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000628.jpg


Now, since the sump and pump take up most of the space, I wanted to make sure I would have some room to store chemicals etc...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000629.jpg

[STEELERFAN747]

I was glad to see that I had a molding left over. (every little bit helps)


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000624.jpg

Actually, I had to go return it and pick up a different on that I had run out of. (so all and all, it worked out)


Well, I have gotten to the point where I can no longer work on the stand (except for sanding, which I will do later) I am wating for the doors (which should be about a week more) and I need to get the wood which will adorn the top rim.

Now, I have run in to a little problem.

I initially took measurements of my current tanks black upper and lower trim and made all needed arrangements for that same size rim.

I have recently measured the new tanks rim and have found it to be 1/4" taller, which means my measurements are off and now I have to find 1" maple instead of 3/4" for the top layer.


Well, on we go to the canopy.....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000630.jpg

Here's a pic showing the same moldings present on the stand.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000631.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000632.jpg

[STEELERFAN747]

Now, I was a little bit disapointed to see that a couple of the pieces on the canopy where a different color shade. (I hope that will not be evident once it is stained)


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000633.jpg

Here we see the canopy with both side molding inserts installed.

I was thankful to get to this point, taking into consideration all the distractions I had today. (picking up my son from school, running to the store, Mcdonalds and Lowes to pick-up the extra molding)


And here is the canopy on top of the stand. Although the front face is not ready (still needs additional moldings), I wanted to see what it would look like together.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000635.jpg


Well, thats all for today. I will try and post again soon, although now it will be a little bit slower since my next day off is not until Sunday.

[Icehockey_whino]

I know that I'm probably being redundant, But are you using 3/4" or 1/2" for the main body of your canopy? I 'm starting to make a new canopy for my 55g reef this weekend. I'm up grading to MHs and redoing things so I have better ventilation and access to the tank.

By the way you must have some good background in woodworking. The tank stand looks fantastic. The trim work is phenomenol. Th eonly reason I'm tackling the canopy myself is that my grandfather was a furniture builder so I kind of grew up in his shop.

Can't wait to see the finished project!!

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8357114#post8357114 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Icehockey_whino
I know that I'm probably being redundant, But are you using 3/4" or 1/2" for the main body of your canopy? I 'm starting to make a new canopy for my 55g reef this weekend. I'm up grading to MHs and redoing things so I have better ventilation and access to the tank.

By the way you must have some good background in woodworking. The tank stand looks fantastic. The trim work is phenomenol. Th eonly reason I'm tackling the canopy myself is that my grandfather was a furniture builder so I kind of grew up in his shop.

Can't wait to see the finished project!!

Hey, thanks for the compliment, I am using 3/4" all around.
I had very little experience in woodworking, but the person whos design I borrowed gave a huge step by step so I was able to piece things together from all the pictures and a couple of questions I asked him.

As for the ventilation (also in his design, I will go with an open back and top. ) There will just be 3-4" strips holding everything together. I have mh's as well so I know heat can be an issue.

I will try and post some additional pics of the canopies progress soon to give you a better idea of what I'm talking about, so keep checking back.

[STEELERFAN747]

Well, I went to pick-up may tank yesterday and unfortunantly it came in wrong.

I initially wanted just one overflow on the left side, but was told that on the 120g it would be a special order and that it would be more expensive (I think the owner was just blowing smoke up my ***) so I went with 2 corner overflows.

When I went to pick it up I noticed the tank had 2 rear megaflows, (not to put anyone down but, I just dont like the mega flows. I find they take up too much space) so the owner told me she would re-order it for me.

Today I received a call telling me all they had avaliable was a single overflow and now it seems it would be the same price (things that make you go hhmmmm)

Well, it looks like I will end up with what I originaly wanted. So thats good.

Will post pics once I receive it.

[STEELERFAN747]

Well, I found something that not only is quite interesting but for those trying to cut costs, it will save you some money.

I initially wanted to make my stand & canopy out of solid maple, but when I started to price everything out, I decided to go with maple plywood just to cut costs.

Now this is fine except that if you have ever seen plywood, you know the end grain is not to nice to look at....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000638.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000637.jpg

Not only are all those layers unsightly but the staining process will never look the same.
What to do, what to do???????????

Well I happened to find this at Lowes and decided to try it out...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000639.jpg

It states it is a real wood veneer that comes with glue on one side and is meant to be ironed on.

I started to apply it and was really impressed.

Here is the first strip I applied, you could see the difference it makes. At $5.00 and change you cannot go wrong, and the best part is, it should stain identicaly....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000640.jpg

and here is one section completed...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000641.jpg


It looks like I will be busy applying these to all end grains and the neat thing is it comes made for 3/4" wood.

Will post additional pics when done with this process...... :fish1: :fish2:

[STEELERFAN747]

Well I happened to find this at Lowes and decided to try it out...



It states it is a real wood veneer that comes with glue on one side and is meant to be ironed on.

I started to apply it and was really impressed.

Here is the first strip I applied, you could see the difference it makes. At $5.00 and change you cannot go wrong, and the best part is, it should stain identicaly....


My mistake, it actualy $6.00 and change....

[HolyScoly]

rey u also could have gone with a 65 g now that i think about it its just alittle higher hmmmmm think u should go return that 50 to martha maybe shell give u a good deal vasaline at no extra charge.lol

[dodgersfan25]

thats one hell of a stand!

[clekchau]

holy crap that is beautifullllll

[exoticaquatix]

did you order your 120 custom made directly from the manufacturer or did the wholesaler have them? what brand did you go with? i have a connection to get a 120 wholesale but all-glass and oceanic are my only options. great looking stand, wish i had the time, money, tools and motivation to do the same! :)
-nick

[marino420td]

steelerfan- I just found this thread. Great job so far. I'm sure you are excited to be so close to finishing. It looks great. Keep us posted on the progress.

If you are on the same pace I was you should have water in the tank by about July. LOL.

[ZOKU]

I just found this thread, too.

Wow. What an amazing stand!! :eek2: I'm really excited to see another 120-gal. being started... :)

Keep up the great work!!

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8383692#post8383692 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by exoticaquatix
did you order your 120 custom made directly from the manufacturer or did the wholesaler have them? what brand did you go with? i have a connection to get a 120 wholesale but all-glass and oceanic are my only options. great looking stand, wish i had the time, money, tools and motivation to do the same! :)
-nick

Thanks, I appreciate the compliments and the tank is an AGA, hopefuly I should be picking it up tomorrow.

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8385158#post8385158 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by marino420td
steelerfan- I just found this thread. Great job so far. I'm sure you are excited to be so close to finishing. It looks great. Keep us posted on the progress.

If you are on the same pace I was you should have water in the tank by about July. LOL.

Thanks Marino, I am quite excited with the way its coming out. I will try to post a few pics once I get the stand and once I have advanced a little more with the canopy.

[servicky]

Ya Know i do alot of reading on here and let me tell you This thread you doing here is very impressive great job on the stand as well I am doing a 150 for a customer and i might be doing the same thing.. Did you use software to spec this stand out and know your cuts or all on paper. If so i am interested in the complete construction on this stand any info would be awesome keep up the good work. Also you need to purchase a 70 tooth blade for your finish work. So you have all lazer sharp edjes on your trim... Keep the pics comming... I wait every day for new ones or info...

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8387097#post8387097 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by servicky
Ya Know i do alot of reading on here and let me tell you This thread you doing here is very impressive great job on the stand as well I am doing a 150 for a customer and i might be doing the same thing.. Did you use software to spec this stand out and know your cuts or all on paper. If so i am interested in the complete construction on this stand any info would be awesome keep up the good work. Also you need to purchase a 70 tooth blade for your finish work. So you have all lazer sharp edjes on your trim... Keep the pics comming... I wait every day for new ones or info...


Thanks Servicky, I appreciate that.

No software was used, all measurements were done on paper before getting started. I appreciate the advice on the 70 tooth but I am almost cmpletely done with the moldings so I dont think investing in it now would be a great idea. I wish I'd known that sooner but I dont have any real experience building anything, but I will keep that in mind for future reference.

As far as info, let me know what you need, I will be more than happy to help in anyways possible.

[STEELERFAN747]

Just to keep you guys posted, I did not do much work on the stand today (My wife had a honey do list). I did however work a little bit on the canopy last night and I picked up the tank today.

I will try and post pics tomorrow.

[servicky]

on your 2x4's are they just doug fir 2x4;s??? local h/w store framing 2x4's straight ones...

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8401787#post8401787 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by servicky
on your 2x4's are they just doug fir 2x4;s??? local h/w store framing 2x4's straight ones...

I got them at Home Depot. They had 2 kinds, I think they are pine, very soft and light in color.

[STEELERFAN747]

Well, the last couple of days I have been unable to do anything. I spent all day Sunday at church, then pressure cleaning my sidewalk and finaly picking up my tank.

Monday, I left to work at 6:00 a.m. and did not return until after 8:00 p.m.


Finaly today with the help of my neighbor I was able to get the tank out of my wifes Durango and onto the stand.

Here is the first picture of the tank on the stand.......


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000644.jpg

I was very excited to see the tank finaly atop the stand and I started imagining what it will look like when completed


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000650.jpg

I did not think 6"s would be that much different from my current tank but it is.
I will have alot of fun with the extra space and I'm sure my fish will love it.

Next, I will be painting the back black to mach the overflow.....

:fish1: :fish2: :fish1:

[STEELERFAN747]

I chose to go with a single corner overflow so minimal space would be lost...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000651.jpg

This is the first time I have gotten a ready reef glass tank, so far I think I will like it, I do however want to keep the overflow from gatting covered with coraline so I will probably have to clean it quite a bit...


Also, I received my lighting for the fuge today......


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000654.jpg

I got power compact lighting from a company called catfish, which I purchased on ebay.

I dont know if they are any good for what I need them but for the price I figured they were worth a try.


Here they are mounted on top of the sump...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000657.jpg


They dont quite fit right, so I will have to make a support for them. I believe they are 27watts ( I hope that will be sufficient) If not then I guess we will try something else.


Last but not least I was able to cover practicaly all the end grains on the stand.

here are a couple of pics so you can see the difference.......


before........


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000629.jpg


and after.......


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000660.jpg


I really like the look of the veneer and think it will stain perfectly.


Well, tomorrow I will be placing and order for the top filler that will go on top of the stand lip to cover the black tank brace so I will post pics when I have them.....

[jman77]

Who makes your 120g tank ?
That's a nice overflow ....

[servicky]

for the back of the glass find some blk vinyl it holds up alot better.. that what we used on my starphire tank.. Ohh I built my stand tonight ill get ya some pictures.

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8410460#post8410460 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by servicky
for the back of the glass find some blk vinyl it holds up alot better.. that what we used on my starphire tank.. Ohh I built my stand tonight ill get ya some pictures.

Pics would be great.

By the way were do you get the vinyl backing? and is it self adhesive?

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8409988#post8409988 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jman77
Who makes your 120g tank ?
That's a nice overflow ....

It's made by Perfecto, I was originaly going with AGA but my lfs told me I would have to have it custom made with just one overflow because "they are no longer making corner overflows" I dont know if thats true or if im getting smoke blown up my ***

[servicky]

yea find a guy who does lettering out of vinyl same stuff adhesive on back side. works great. I have noticed whe you use paint id dosent adhere as well since its glass.unless you find a self etching paint like the silicone we use on the tanks. (get the idea).
Let me know what ya find out ... get me some dementions ill get soem shipped to ya if ya cant find it....

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8412012#post8412012 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by servicky
yea find a guy who does lettering out of vinyl same stuff adhesive on back side. works great. I have noticed whe you use paint id dosent adhere as well since its glass.unless you find a self etching paint like the silicone we use on the tanks. (get the idea).
Let me know what ya find out ... get me some dementions ill get soem shipped to ya if ya cant find it....

So would it be ironed on like the lettering? Do you know how pricey it would be? The back is 48" x 24".

[FishyBiz]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8412284#post8412284 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by STEELERFAN747
So would it be ironed on like the lettering? Do you know how pricey it would be? The back is 48" x 24".

Vinyl comes in 24" x 10yards or 50 yards. Depending on the type its about $30-$60. Find someone with a shop you could buy just the dims you need. Any sign shop should have a vinyl cutter. And you dont iron it on. Its just a huge sticker. I would be affraid of having all kinds of bubbles in it after I applied it. :confused:

[Shooter7]

I painted the back of my 120 a year ago. No probs so far...that is, what you can see of it. Most of it is coralline covered back there anyway. And yeah, my AGA has the twin overflow towers on the back wall and not the corners. My prob with this is that it causes dead spots in both of those corners next to the overflow unless you somehow specifically direct current back there. Sweet looking setup you have going. :cool:

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8412489#post8412489 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Shooter7
I painted the back of my 120 a year ago. No probs so far...that is, what you can see of it. Most of it is coralline covered back there anyway. And yeah, my AGA has the twin overflow towers on the back wall and not the corners. My prob with this is that it causes dead spots in both of those corners next to the overflow unless you somehow specifically direct current back there. Sweet looking setup you have going. :cool:

Thanks shooter. I usually always paint the back of my tanks (except for an acrylic tank I had) and have never had a problem with them, but I am always open to suggestions.

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8412360#post8412360 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by FishyBiz
Vinyl comes in 24" x 10yards or 50 yards. Depending on the type its about $30-$60. Find someone with a shop you could buy just the dims you need. Any sign shop should have a vinyl cutter. And you dont iron it on. Its just a huge sticker. I would be affraid of having all kinds of bubbles in it after I applied it. :confused:

Thanks for the info, I will look into it.

But just out of curiousity. They sell something at my lfs that comes in a roll (glossy, black paper) wouldnt that be the same as using the vinyl or is there an advantage to using vinyl?

[jman77]

that's a nice tank ....standard AGA come in dual overflows for that size....

[marino420td]

I used the black, stick on backing from lfs on my 65 gallon tank. It goes on like window tinting. You wet the glass, peel the backing and apply the film. Use a credit card or squeegee to remove the bubbles. It actually works pretty good.

My 120 already had a painted back when I bought it used. They look about the same from the front. Just whatever you prefer.

What is your projected date to get saltwater into this tank?

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8417081#post8417081 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by marino420td
I used the black, stick on backing from lfs on my 65 gallon tank. It goes on like window tinting. You wet the glass, peel the backing and apply the film. Use a credit card or squeegee to remove the bubbles. It actually works pretty good.

My 120 already had a painted back when I bought it used. They look about the same from the front. Just whatever you prefer.

What is your projected date to get saltwater into this tank?

Well besides not having too much time to actually do any work on it, alot depends on how long it takes to recieve a few things I have on order.

I am still waiting in the doors (which hopefuly should be in within the week) the top filler to cover the black bracing and I still need to get the sump drilled and install the baffles.

All in all, I am shooting for 2 weeks, however worst possible case scenario I need to have it done by Thanksgiving or it will have to be put on hold until after new years. (I decorate my house with Christmas villages that I build, and that is quite time consuming)

[servicky]

Ok Well i went to buy hard wood maple and ok now im confused.. First. That decrative moulding that has the burned in design They dont make it in maple. It a diffrent wood. If you use maple for that special trim where in the workd did you find it. Also What sizes did you use for the true hard woods and did you just use a sheet of maple plywood and then cover it in real hardwood?? any info would be great... Thanks OOhhh What size is that decroative trim any way?????

[ZOKU]

Those aren't Dept. 56 christmas villages, are they? I have an aunt and uncle who do an insane display in their home each year, as well.

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8422216#post8422216 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by servicky
Ok Well i went to buy hard wood maple and ok now im confused.. First. That decrative moulding that has the burned in design They dont make it in maple. It a diffrent wood. If you use maple for that special trim where in the workd did you find it. Also What sizes did you use for the true hard woods and did you just use a sheet of maple plywood and then cover it in real hardwood?? any info would be great... Thanks OOhhh What size is that decroative trim any way?????

All the trims were purchased at Lowes, and they are made of pine. I will be using a type of primer before staining that will allow it to go on evenly and the 2 woods together dont really look that different from one another when stained.

As for the wood, it is maple plywood. The end grains were covered with real wood veneer (also purchased at Lowes)

The sizes for the trim I will check for you but I believe the smaller one is 1", the mid size one is 1 1/4 - 1 1/2 (not sure) and the larger is about 2 1/4 but I will let you know for sure. (you could also print a copy of the picture I posted and just match it up with the moldings at Lowes.

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8422259#post8422259 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ZOKU
Those aren't Dept. 56 christmas villages, are they? I have an aunt and uncle who do an insane display in their home each year, as well.

Yes Zoku they are. I do 2 different villages. North Pole for my wife and CIC (Christmas in the city which is a copy of New York) which is my collection.

All and all I have about 220-230 houses not to mention accesories and figuerines. Needless to say it is a huge display when all houses and stuff are used.

If I am still posting on this forum by then, I will try and post a pic or two of the village.

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8424383#post8424383 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by STEELERFAN747
All the trims were purchased at Lowes, and they are made of pine. I will be using a type of primer before staining that will allow it to go on evenly and the 2 woods together dont really look that different from one another when stained.

As for the wood, it is maple plywood. The end grains were covered with real wood veneer (also purchased at Lowes)

The sizes for the trim I will check for you but I believe the smaller one is 1", the mid size one is 1 1/4 - 1 1/2 (not sure) and the larger is about 2 1/4 but I will let you know for sure. (you could also print a copy of the picture I posted and just match it up with the moldings at Lowes.

here are the measurements, the thinner one which is used as the inner molding is 1" wide x 9/16" thick, the middle one is 1 1/2 x 7/8" thick and the largest molding is 2 1/4 x 27/32" thick.

Hope that helps.

[servicky]

awesome thanks a ton for the info....

[STEELERFAN747]

Ok, so after a few days off and the first chance I got, (honey do list came first) I started working on the canopy.

I decided the canopy would be a combination of maple and pine wood. ( not to cut costs, just to keep the weight down)

First step was to get out my pocket hole jig and start drilling holes..


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000663.jpg

After about 30 minutes and many holes later, I was able to start piecing everything together.
I decided the canopy would wrap around the tank instead of just ending at the back of the tank like the stand does.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000664.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000665.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000666.jpg


Now the original design I saw that inspired me to build this had the canopy sitting on top of the tanks black bracing and the molding was attached to cover it.

While this design is flawless, I decided to make the canopy a little wider so it would actualy cover the sides itself and the molding would go attached at the same length as the canopy walls...


Here is a picture of the inner wood rails I used to make this possible...




http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000668.jpg

Here are a couple pics of the canopy with the previously made front face attached......

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000671.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000673.jpg


I used 2 different types of hinges to connect the canopy face. I am not overly fond of them but I figure at roughly 6' 2"- 6' 3" (that is the height from bottom of stand to canopy top) not to many people will see them.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000672.jpg


As you can tell, the canopy is pretty much open top and back. I hope this will really help keep the water cool.

[STEELERFAN747]

Here are a few pics of the canopy on the tank. It is not fineshed yet, but it gives us a slight idea....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000676.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000677.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000678.jpg

[STEELERFAN747]

Well, after breakfast and a little tv with my son, I was back at work..

remember I said I used a combo of maple and pine. The only drawback is the grains and colors are different....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000680.jpg


Well, I purchased a maple veneer roll at a local distributor which should solve that problem.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000682.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000683.jpg


I attached them using an industrial strength glue


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000684.jpg

after pasting them and cutting off the excess, I was to cutting the moldings for the canopy.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000685.jpg


Here is a pic with the front face finished.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000686.jpg

[STEELERFAN747]

Now I apologize for the lack of additional pics of the canopy in progress but between lunch, running to Lowes to pick up extra molding and it getting darker earlier now I tried to finish as quickly as possible.

here are a few pics of the finished canopy on top of the tank.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000687.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000688.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000691.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000692.jpg


Well, thats all for today, next I will be applying all the additional veneer edges, applying the wood filler, sanding and preping for staining. Will post soon.

[marino420td]

Looking good. What are going to use to cover the trim on the bottom of the tank?

[scaryperson27]

Wow! that looks great

[onehundred20]

build me a stand please:) I also need one for a 120

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8441331#post8441331 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by marino420td
Looking good. What are going to use to cover the trim on the bottom of the tank?

I ordered what is known as a filler for the top. it will be much like yours, solid maple with a front ogee trim.
As I previously stated, the black brace on my current tank is thinner than the one on the newer one. And the filler comes standard 3/4" which means there would be about a 1/8" black trim showing.

I ended up improvising and getting some 1/4" thick strips which I will place underneath the filler. Together it will cover the brace completely.

Here are a couple of pics so you can see what I mean. It is a rough draft since I have yet to receive the actual filler.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000670.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000669.jpg

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8442303#post8442303 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by onehundred20
build me a stand please:) I also need one for a 120

We can definantly discuss it.:)

[STEELERFAN747]

I also decided to add a couple of inner braces to the canopy which will support my lighting fixture.
You can see the braces from the sides of the canopy.

At the height were the braces were placed, the lights will sit 8"s from the water surface.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000691.jpg


Man, through out this project I have come to realize one thing.
There is a tool to facilitate everything. Unfortunantely, I dont own any of them. (lol)

[STEELERFAN747]

I received my 2nd Tunze last night.

I am starting to get anxious and dont know how much longer I can wait. I am really looking forward to finishing it, so I can finally set it up and begin the fun.

[onehundred20]

looking awsome cant wait to see more progress:)

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8410460#post8410460 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by servicky
for the back of the glass find some blk vinyl it holds up alot better.. that what we used on my starphire tank.. Ohh I built my stand tonight ill get ya some pictures.

Hey, any luck with getting those pics?

[STEELERFAN747]

Well, I dont really have much to report in the way of progress. I have finished wood filling in the cracks but not much else.

At this point unfortunantly, I think I may not get it done in time for thanks giving so I may end up putting it on hold until after New Year.

I am still waiting on the stands top filler layer to come in, as well as the doors. I will be calling in tomorrow to check on their progress.

Today I decided to start working on the plumbing, to atleast try and get as far ahead as possible, when I was faced with a large set back.

I took the panworld pump out of it's wrapping to find it damaged.:mad2: :mad2: :mad2:


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000764.jpg

The front pump housing has a tear in it about 2" long

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000765.jpg

Unfortunantly I purchased this pump from Marine depot back in the end of September and I looked at their return policy and they only give you 72 hours.

I will call them tomorrow to see if they could atleast get me some replacement parts. (I will keep my fingers crossed)

[STEELERFAN747]

The only good news is I took the top cover off and it seems that is the only damage their is.


Well, I decided their was no use in crying over spilled milk err pumps and decided to try and put together the plumbing any ways...


I quickly noticed that I really dont have much room inside the stand since the sump takes up the majority of avaliable real estate so i started trying a couple of things....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000766.jpg


I initialy tried going traight up but decided I would have the pipes getting in the way so I added an elbow so the plumbing would run across the back.

Then I decided to add a tee, just in case I need to add a chiller...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000767.jpg


I originaly planned on drilling the sump on the right side towards the front but with such limited space, it looks like I may have to drill it on the front right side such as illustrated....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000768.jpg



I really dont like this approach, but the only other thing I can think of is not drilling it at all and simply running some pvc up and over the side then down into the sump..

Do you guys think that would work and does anyone have it like that??????

It would definantely save me some money if I could do it that way.

Well, I will continue trying to get this thing up and running as soon as possible.

[monaca]

I set my tank up on a common wall with my garage...I plumbed everything into the garage, sump, refuge, chiller and noise associated...not sure if thats an option for you...nice job on the woodwork...could you make sure Ben wears a helmet...

[onehundred20]

looking great, cant wait to see more progress, loving the stand, did you finish the canopy?

as far as the pump i guess the front would work fine, not sure how well coming over the top would work, I use a submersable so dont have to deal with drilling.

[STEELERFAN747]

Great news. I contacted marine depot and they gave me the telephone number to panworld. I contacted them and spoke to a gentleman named Leo who specified they will be sending me out a new front housing at NO CHARGE!!!:rollface: :rollface: :rollface:

I also heard back from the company making my stands top filler who states they should have it ready for me by the end of the day!!!:D

Next I will call the company I ordered the doors from. Hopefully they will have more good news for me.

[onehundred20]

awsome, waiting for more progress:)

[Rock Anemone]

Looks absolutely amazing!!!

[Hop]

Wow! Very nice. Must subscribe:)

[servicky]

ok started on the stand looking pretty good so far... ill let ya know ill put some pics in my gallery.... where did ya get the doors...


http://reefcentral.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=191021&size=big&papass=&sort=1&thecat=

[onehundred20]

wow looking very nice servicky that looks like something that I might be able to pull off have you done woodworking like this before?

[hatfielj]

Steelerfan: First off, great job on the stand and set up so far it looks really great. I'm not sure if you posted this already but what are the dimensions of your 120? I'm planning on starting a 120 gal hopefully sometime around february 07 and its going to be a 48X24X24. Anyway, your set up is exactly what I'm going for in terms of sump size and stand size. I think I'd like to do a 2X250 watt MH in the canopy canopy with 2X54watt T5 atinics. What lighting are you planning on? I've also considered using an 8X54watt T5 fixture instead of MH to avoid heat issues, but I think I'm still leaning more towards MH at this point. Also, I'd like to get the exact same skimmer as you. Anyway, I'll be watching this thread closely in anticipation. Keep up the great work!

[rp marine]

nice tank keep up with the pix

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8491893#post8491893 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by servicky
ok started on the stand looking pretty good so far... ill let ya know ill put some pics in my gallery.... where did ya get the doors...


http://reefcentral.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=191021&size=big&papass=&sort=1&thecat=

Wow:eek1: That looks great. Keep up the good work.

I see it's going to be a closed loop. Is the overflow calfo like?

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8493496#post8493496 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by hatfielj
Steelerfan: First off, great job on the stand and set up so far it looks really great. I'm not sure if you posted this already but what are the dimensions of your 120? I'm planning on starting a 120 gal hopefully sometime around february 07 and its going to be a 48X24X24. Anyway, your set up is exactly what I'm going for in terms of sump size and stand size. I think I'd like to do a 2X250 watt MH in the canopy canopy with 2X54watt T5 atinics. What lighting are you planning on? I've also considered using an 8X54watt T5 fixture instead of MH to avoid heat issues, but I think I'm still leaning more towards MH at this point. Also, I'd like to get the exact same skimmer as you. Anyway, I'll be watching this thread closely in anticipation. Keep up the great work!

hatfielj, First of all, thank you for the compliment. It means alot that folks appreciate your hard work. It is a 48x24x24 and atleast in the begining I will be using my current light fixture. It is an outer orbit with 2 150 watts 14k de mh, and 2 130watts pc dual actinics. It has worked great on my 90g and even though this is a 120, I dont plan adding more rock but rather give more free space for fish to swim. I will see how they work out then upgrade if necessary.

Here is an old picture of my 90g with the light fixture before I added the canopy. I had just added the leather which is now about 5-6 times larger.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000061.jpg

I removed the legs and have mounted it on inner cross braces so it now sits about 8" from the water surface and does not heat the water much.

[servicky]

Well i was at it again worked all day on this thing... Not to steal your thread but i think we are trying to acomplish the same goals... Good luck with yours and here is my update as well...

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=191198

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8501318#post8501318 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by servicky
Well i was at it again worked all day on this thing... Not to steal your thread but i think we are trying to acomplish the same goals... Good luck with yours and here is my update as well...

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=191198

Wow. At this rate you'll be done in no time. Looks great. Is that pine wood?

[servicky]

no i used poplar and hemlock. where the tank is going every other piece of furniture is black with a stain rub through. So the stand will be black. I hate pine.... I think all the embossed trim is pine Its hard to find hardwood embossed trim unless you make it or you want to spend 8.00 a foot... i made my canopy 16 inches with a 3/4 overlay over the tank. How about yours?????? Keep in touch lets get these things done im tired already.....

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8502314#post8502314 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by servicky
no i used poplar and hemlock. where the tank is going every other piece of furniture is black with a stain rub through. So the stand will be black. I hate pine.... I think all the embossed trim is pine Its hard to find hardwood embossed trim unless you make it or you want to spend 8.00 a foot... i made my canopy 16 inches with a 3/4 overlay over the tank. How about yours?????? Keep in touch lets get these things done im tired already.....

Same here on both. I think if I spend anymore time running to to lowes, hd or working on the tank my family will not recognize me. (lol)

[servicky]

Ok ... IM Almost done I need (DOORS)...... For the Bottom 23x29-1/4 I need a raised panel door..... Now a whole lotta sanding preping is a PITA....... Lets se soem new shopts of yours....


http://reefcentral.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=191334




I got a few more in my gallery... Im ready to build one for someone else......

[STEELERFAN747]

I went on Tuesday to pick up the stands top filler. I was expecting something a little more detailed.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000777.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000769.jpg


Sorry for the crappy pics, but my camera is not the best.

I asked for an ogee edge and the ones I've seen in the past have had a few more designs and details..

I was however pleasantly surprised when I combined it with the other 1/4 filler sheet I previously purchased. I would have liked a little bit more from the 3/4" filler but all and all I think it looks pretty good.

Just a few pics of what the top edge will look like......


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000775.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000772.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000773.jpg

[STEELERFAN747]

Next, I will be facing the edge of the 1/4" filler so it may have the same texture as the 3/4". Then I will trim the 3/4" filler on the rear and shave off about 1/4".

Since I had it made and did not know how much design it would have or how far out it would stick out I decided to have it done a little wider than what I required. (just to be sure it would not be too thin/ It is always possible to remove, never possible to add)

Once that is done, I will start cutting out the holes for the pre-filter and then hopefully start on the staining.

I am still waiting on the doors. They are taking a little longer that I would have hoped.

I spoke to the guy today and he told me he is backed up with work and would have them for me in another week. All I can say is I'm glad I ordered them ahead of time, before I actually needed them or I would be in for a long wait.

[STEELERFAN747]

Oh, I went to a lfs to try and purchase the black backing for the tank, but all I found was a glossy back ground you put on with tape.:mad:

So I am still looking for somewhere I could purchase the vynil to see if I like that better.

[maxxII]

Find some exterior paint, mask off the areas of the tank you dont want painted, and paint it black.

I've done this with all my tanks, no issues what so ever. I like to leave the overflows unpainted in case I ever need to see whats going on back there.

Paint keeps anything from crusting up between the glass and your backing...which looks like crap IMO...especially after you've spent so much time and effort making the stand and canopy look so pretty.

Just a thought,

Nick

[onehundred20]

steeler what are you using for your evaporation water etc, and where is your water storage, im trying to figure out where to put mine etc if I decide to go with another 120 in my new house. Im thinkin I will just run a ro line from the 1/2 bathroom behind the tank wall.

this is if I go with the 120 and not the 180

[STEELERFAN747]

Rey good work picturing the final product its going to look sweet by the way i agree with maxx2 felix did one of his customeers tank with the black paint and it came out great i think better than the vinyl tape my next tank i will be doing this instead of the crappy glossy papper i did anyway great job hope to see those doors on by thanksgiving lol :P

[STEELERFAN747]

sorry this is holyscoly posted from reys computer at work

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8512037#post8512037 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by onehundred20
steeler what are you using for your evaporation water etc, and where is your water storage, im trying to figure out where to put mine etc if I decide to go with another 120 in my new house. Im thinkin I will just run a ro line from the 1/2 bathroom behind the tank wall.

this is if I go with the 120 and not the 180

Well as I stated before, here in Florida we dont have much space or basements, fish rooms etc..... So for now I have been having to manually top off. I have however been thinking about adding a auto top off (even though I am not sure how to go about it/ I was thinking of adding an RO/DI unit to the line of my refridgerator which is located on the opposite side of the wall behind the tank)

Any thoughts on how I could do this?
:confused:

[onehundred20]

i think under a 120 unless you have a small sump the best way to go is a R/O line.

[maxxII]

I would suggest you NOT plumb your RO line directly into your sump. I say this because there are many tanks which have been nuked by a top off going wrong. If you plumb your RO line directly to your sump, you have to have a means of controlling it...IE float valve...float valve's can fail or be fooled, causing your sump to be filled w/ RO water lowering your salinity dangerously.

Better sugestion, IMO, would be to plumb your RO line to a container. Turn the RO on/off to fill the container. Plumb the container to whatever you decide to use to regulate top off in your tank. Ideally, you should do some math, figure out what the max amount of RO water you can add to your tank w/o dropping your salinity below dangerous levels....and make that the size of your container.

This way, if something goes wrong, the worst thing you have to worry about is a flood, (which is bad enough), and not a dead tank AND a flood.

Things that can go wrong:

Snail or something gets stuck in float switch preventing it from shutting off.
Float switch goes bad, never shuts off.
Skimmer goes nuts for some reason, dumps lots of water on floor, lowers water level of tank, top off kicks on....and keeps going until salinity level is terminally low, tank is dead, and your house is flooded.
Dog/cat/child plays with/chews on/damages float valve...
You go on vacation, and tank sitter does something dumb...

These are just a few. I've had the skimmer go nuts, and was saved because I have a water alarm, and I use a Liter meter 3 and a container of top off water. I heard the water alarm when I came home from work, and was able to figure out what had happened. But I was gone for 12 hours.....I would have lost my tank had I not set it up the way I did.

Just the benefit of experiance talking here.

Nick

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8518013#post8518013 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by maxxII
I would suggest you NOT plumb your RO line directly into your sump. I say this because there are many tanks which have been nuked by a top off going wrong. If you plumb your RO line directly to your sump, you have to have a means of controlling it...IE float valve...float valve's can fail or be fooled, causing your sump to be filled w/ RO water lowering your salinity dangerously.


Just the benefit of experiance talking here.

Nick

I think that taking into consideration that I dont have the room for a separate sump, I will have to continue slaving away and just continue adding water manualy.

I am also looking for a way to dose kalkawasser since I dont have the room for a calcium reactor.

Any thoughts on this matter?

[Hop]

Both the top off reservoir and the Ca reactor can be located remotely and fed via gravity. Although I have a wet room, my top off has a gravity fed run of at least 10' with no problems. I also run a kalk drip from quite a distance that is also gravity fed.

I don't see why you couldn't rig something up from another room or garage fed via gravity or a small pump. It's just time to get creative:)

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8519001#post8519001 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Hop
Both the top off reservoir and the Ca reactor can be located remotely and fed via gravity. Although I have a wet room, my top off has a gravity fed run of at least 10' with no problems. I also run a kalk drip from quite a distance that is also gravity fed.

I don't see why you couldn't rig something up from another room or garage fed via gravity or a small pump. It's just time to get creative:)

Hop. Anything that I do or add has to go inside the stand due to space restrictions and not having anyclose room that I could rig something with.

I was thinking of maybe putting in some gravity fed containers inside the stand and bolting them to the inside top.

I dont know however if I will have enough space. I need to get the measurement from one of these containers and see if it will fit.

That's about the only thing I can think of.:rolleyes:

[Hop]

Obviously without knowing the inside layout of your home my advice is limited. One thing that comes to mind is a matching bookshelf nearby with a cabinet (design choice by you:D ) that could house the extra items you need. That way you have a stylish piece of furniture that hides some additional equipment.

Or maybe a matching cabinet hung above the tank, or in a corner of a room. I don't know, I think with a little creativity and (I hate the phase) thinking outside the box... you will have the problem licked in no time:D

[mb5322]

I wouldn't paint the back of the tank, the best thing I have found is I went to autozone and bought "limo black" window tint and put it on, it blacks out the back of the tank and if you ever sell or upgrade etc... you can peel it off to sell the tank. The tint comes in a handy 6 foot by 2 foot by 2 foot roll for $9.99

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8519170#post8519170 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mb5322
I wouldn't paint the back of the tank, the best thing I have found is I went to autozone and bought "limo black" window tint and put it on, it blacks out the back of the tank and if you ever sell or upgrade etc... you can peel it off to sell the tank. The tint comes in a handy 6 foot by 2 foot by 2 foot roll for $9.99

Do you happen to have a pic you could share? I am interested in seeing how it looks and how black it actualy is.

[mb5322]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8519257#post8519257 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by STEELERFAN747
Do you happen to have a pic you could share? I am interested in seeing how it looks and how black it actualy is.


No problem, just give me a few minutes to get a pic of it, then I link you to another reef forum, this site confuses the hell out of me on how to get a picture on here.

[mb5322]

meh, my wife has the camera, but it looks very similar to paint especially if its up against a wall, my tank is in wall and I really like the look of it, when I'm standing behind it you can just see my outline, I mean whens the last time you pulled up next to a limo and could see inside it? same thing

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8519561#post8519561 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mb5322
meh, my wife has the camera, but it looks very similar to paint especially if its up against a wall, my tank is in wall and I really like the look of it, when I'm standing behind it you can just see my outline, I mean whens the last time you pulled up next to a limo and could see inside it? same thing

Youre not afraid that the intense lighting will make it fade over time?

[onehundred20]

maxII thanks for you input ive never heard of that happening, but since you mentioned it Im gonna keep sticking to my fresh water storage rather than running a line...just have to figure out where to keep it with my auto off...might have to find a new wall for the tank and make a cabinet like the mentioned for a brute or something.

[servicky]

blk vinyl sticker you can get it anywhere they do custom lettering...

[Hop]

I don't see why you guys are afraid of painting the tank. I have painted at least five tanks in the last twenty years without a problem. They look the best, have no air bubbles and if you spill water over it, it's no big deal.

As previously mentioned if you do sell the tank, you can scrape the paint off with a plastic scraper that won't scratch the tank.;)

[PatrickJ]

Love the wood work. I would have sank the tank in the stand or built some trim around the bottom to hide the sand, the sand gets ugly ya know.

[maxxII]

I'm with you Hop on the painting of tanks....minimal effort for the best look IMO...

Glad I could help you out 120.....its cheaper to let other people make mistakes and have you learn from them. This hobby is expensive enough already to go around making the same mistakes everyone else has....go make your own new and interesting mistakes and then come back and tell us about them!
:D

Hop's comment about the side cabinet has merit. I've seen it done many times and it can easily be done well....you've got the talent.

Nick

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8521369#post8521369 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by PatrickJ
Love the wood work. I would have sank the tank in the stand or built some trim around the bottom to hide the sand, the sand gets ugly ya know.

I had thought about that. I originaly was going to buy a 150G (just cause It was going to be cheaper than the 120 and have it sink in about 6" and put a real deep sand bed, but when I decided to go with the 120, I didnt think it would be necessary)

I dont really plan on putting a real deep sand bed so I should be ok/ the edges will be low and deeper in the middle. The gpg will see to that.

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8521365#post8521365 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Hop
I don't see why you guys are afraid of painting the tank. I have painted at least five tanks in the last twenty years without a problem. They look the best, have no air bubbles and if you spill water over it, it's no big deal.

As previously mentioned if you do sell the tank, you can scrape the paint off with a plastic scraper that won't scratch the tank.;)

Hop, I have always painted my tanks and I never think of what will happen if the day comes that I want to sell it. But I am always open to new ideas.

I do agree they look great and I've never had a problem with any of the ones I've painted.

[Hop]

:) The other ideas make me nervous:)

[STEELERFAN747]

Hi all.

After taking some time off because of lack of parts I am happy to say that I just picked up the doors for the stand and canopy, and I also spoke to my wife who states the panwarlds front housing arrived.

I will try and post pics tonight of the doors etc......

[STEELERFAN747]

Well, as I mentioned before, I was hopeing to have competed everything before Thanksgiving since I build 2 Christmas villages every year.

This year just to keep the caous to a minimal, I decided to only do one and make it a little smaller than usual.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000829.jpg

I decided to do Christmas in the city instead of my wifes North pole collection and I built a lake towards the front right corner.
And even though it is New Yorkesk the reefer inside of me could not help it and I made the lake into a reef with coral and all.

I took a couple of pics of the reef but my camera blows and you cannot tell what it is.

Well, I had previously said I received my doors for the stand and canopy, so here is a pic of them...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000824.jpg

[STEELERFAN747]

I went out and bought the hinges for the doors...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000825.jpg


Now wouldnt you know it they were too long and would require me to install another strip of would on the inside of the stand or canopy in order to be mounted, so I went out and bought another set....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000826.jpg


These were small inough to allow me to install the doors as is.

Here is a pic of the inside of the canopy after I installed the first door....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000827.jpg


and a pic of the first door installed from the front...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000828.jpg

[STEELERFAN747]

NOw wouldnt you know, I thought everything was fine until I went to install the second door and found myself with a gap in the middle.

I initially started to panic thinking I had gotten the doors the wrong size until I realized that the hinges come in various inleigh sizes.

So once again I had to go out and purchase a third set of hinges...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000832.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000834.jpg

Now these are said to have a 3/4"spacing which would match the spacing I gave for the doors.

I have yet to try these out with Thanksgiving and all else going on but I will try them and let you guys know.

Wish me luck.:fish1: :fish2: :fish1:

[servicky]

so what spacing do i need to have around facing of the doors overhang on the cabinet??? i have to order doors asap..

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8611308#post8611308 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by servicky
so what spacing do i need to have around facing of the doors overhang on the cabinet??? i have to order doors asap..

Im sorry but I really did not understand the question. Are you planning on having round shape doors? and as far as having them overhang on the cabinet (if I understand correctly) you need to measure the opening and add however much space you would like them to cover.

just make sure you check that they make hinges that will support your measurements.

[STEELERFAN747]

Mine are oversized by 3/4" around.

[servicky]

3/4 perfect.... where ya get your resessed hinges????

[STEELERFAN747]

I purchased them at a carpenters manufacturing wholesaler.

I was originally going to but them at lowes but they were $5.00 EACH!!!!!!

Then at Home Depot which was selling 2 for $5.00!!!

and then I got them at the wholesalers for $ .60 each (quite a big difference if you ask me)

[STEELERFAN747]

O.k., so these seem to be working better than the other hinges thats for sure. Unfortunantely the hinges dont come equiped with the plastice screw holders so I had to remove them from the first set I got.



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000876a.jpg



In order to do this I had to first install the first set of hinges onto the door by hammering them in place, then unscrew them and replace them with the third set.



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000878.jpg


Then I was able to get started with the installation of the doors...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000828.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000881.jpg

Until all the canopy doors were installed....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000892.jpg

[STEELERFAN747]

Now, even thougheverything appears to be fine, the front doors are not closing properly :mad2:

They are overlaping about 1/8", They close if I join them both together and close them at the same time.

I will go tomorrow to HD to see about purchasing 2 sets of either 7/8" or 1" overlay hinges. ( I knew it was to good to be true) :rolleyes:

Anyways here are a couple of pics from the inside of the canopy...

First the left side........



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000879.jpg


Then the right.......



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000880.jpg


The wood strips you see running from back to front is what I will rest my light fixture on, and even though I dont think it is necessary, I will add a couple of support pillars under them. (better to be safe than sorry)


After that I started on the stand doors....

First with the right side.......


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000882.jpg


Then with the front doors......


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000884.jpg

[marino420td]

Looking good. Do those hinges have adjustment screws to correct the overlapping problem? Most hinges like that do. Good luck.

[STEELERFAN747]

Finaly the left side......



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000888.jpg



and here are a couple of pics of the stands inside....



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000894.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000895.jpg


I ran into the same problem with the stands front doors as I did with the canopy so hopefuly I can get it resolved tomorow.

Now I know I said that the hinges at HD were alot more expensive than the ones at the wholesaler but the wholesaler is about 30 miles from my house and Hd is about 5 minutes so I figure my time is worth the few bucks extra I will spend.


I am still debating on wether or not to put knobs on the front doors. I probably will but have not decided yet.


All and all I really like the way it's coming out so far...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000890.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000889.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000891.jpg


Next, I will be cutting the top filler which is the piece seen on top of the stands front edge, then hopefuly start the staining process.

If everything goes well, I hope to have it set up before the new year or shortly there after.

We shall see..... Will post more soon. :fish1:

[drummereef]

Wow! Carpendry skill are awesome! Nice work :thumbsup:

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8620123#post8620123 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by marino420td
Looking good. Do those hinges have adjustment screws to correct the overlapping problem? Most hinges like that do. Good luck.


Yes they do but they will not adjust enough to allow the proper spacing. Hopefuly tomorow I will have this corrected.

By the way Marino, did you use foam on the bottom of your tank? I was not planning on using it but have heard some people say it should always be done. I dont have any in my current tank and have never had a problem with it.

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8620192#post8620192 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by drummereef
Wow! Carpendry skill are awesome! Nice work :thumbsup:



Thanks drummer, I appreciate the compliment. I'm pretty happy with the way it's coming out.

[marino420td]

I did not use foam. My stand has a 3/4" plywood top that the tank sits on. Since the tank is glass and has the plastic framing, I figured it wasn't necessary. No problems so far.

[STEELERFAN747]

Well, I went to HD today and unfortunantely they did not have the hindes I needed. They only had one with a 5/8" inlay and 1-3/8 inlay.:(

So it looks like I will have to go to the wholesalers tomorrow.

Oh well, maybe I will take a look at some of the knobs while I am there.:D

[STEELERFAN747]

I went to the wholesalers today, but unfortunantely they did not have the size of hinge I need. :mad:

I will try a different wholesaler tomorrow. Hopefully I will have better results.

[STEELERFAN747]

Well, I just got back from the other wholesaler where I picked up my 4th and final set of hinges cause otherwise I swear I will......
:mad2:


Oh, who am I kidding. If these dont work, I will continue on to the next and next and next. :p

[Gundo5000]

Do your hinges come apart, meaning you can detach the doors at any time without removing screws, although I dont want you to go buy a fifth set....just a thought. :D

This is how my new stand for my 135 was built and I love it.

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8637115#post8637115 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by algundo
Do your hinges come apart, meaning you can detach the doors at any time without removing screws, although I dont want you to go buy a fifth set....just a thought. :D

This is how my new stand for my 135 was built and I love it.

I am not sure.:rolleyes: I do know what you are talking about though.

Although I have a pretty big opening (31- 1/4") and dont really forsee having to remove the doors all that often.

However the hinges you are talking about are cool:cool:

P.s. I would like to see a pic of your stand if you have it avaliable.

[Gundo5000]

The stand is currently under contruction (painting) but when its done I'll post some pics. :D

[STEELERFAN747]

O.K., now I'm pi**ed. :mad2:

I just got through putting on the 4th different set of hinges and now I have a gap about 1/8-1/4" :mad:

I liked these hinges better than the others except for the gap. I think tomorrow I will try to buy a set like these in 3/4 overlay.

These seem to have more of an adjustment to them, so I think they may work.

The only other thing I have thought of is, I may have to live with the gap and just add a layer sheet behind one of the doors to block light from escaping. :confused:

I dont know anymore. I guess we will have to wait and see..

[marino420td]

The hinges I used would easily have enough adjustment to fill a gap that size. I didn't have time to read through all of the posts but do your hinges not have this flexibility? Mine adjust for space between the doors and for the space between the door and the faceframe. Two adjustment screws on each hinge.

Since our setups are so similar, I would think you could use these hinges too.

Let me know if you need pictures.

Good luck, I know it is frustrating.

[marino420td]

I thought I would go ahead and post pictures of my hinges so you don't have to research. Sorry for the crappy pics but it is getting late.

Here is a picture with the door slightly opened. You can see that the hinges have tabs that catch on the faceframe for proper positioning.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b39/marino420td/IMG_2932.jpg

Here is a picture with the door fully opened

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b39/marino420td/IMG_2933.jpg

Two adjustment screws. One adjusts to correct gaps between the two doors. The other adjusts the gap between the door and the faceframe. So the door rests flat against the framing when closed.

[marino420td]

I forgot to mention that I bought these hinges from the cabinetmaker that made the doors. I'm not sure if you bought your doors locally but you can probably find a local cabinetmaker to see if they have hinges that will work. Chances are they will have some.

[scaryperson27]

So you finally got a fit! looks great.

[db_triggerfish]

just found this great post i will follow your progress looks really good, can't wait to see it with water. thanks for the pics.

[djrice69]

Hey STEELERFAN747 i do vinyal stickers and i can sell you a 24"x 4' of black sticker for 30 bucks shipped

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8647296#post8647296 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by marino420td
I forgot to mention that I bought these hinges from the cabinetmaker that made the doors. I'm not sure if you bought your doors locally but you can probably find a local cabinetmaker to see if they have hinges that will work. Chances are they will have some.

Alright, well I just picked up 2 more sets of hinges. I got the exact one you have (blum brand) and what seems like a generic look a like hinge.

At this point I know that I will be going back to the wholesaler at least once more, but I am hoping I will only have to replace one set and that I can finaly stop this madness:mixed:

[STEELERFAN747]

I mean I hope I will only have to return one set not replace.

[onehundred20]

get on with it! JK:) anyway I dont understand why wouldnt a normal hinge work for the doors?

[marino420td]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8651345#post8651345 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by STEELERFAN747
Alright, well I just picked up 2 more sets of hinges. I got the exact one you have (blum brand) and what seems like a generic look a like hinge.

At this point I know that I will be going back to the wholesaler at least once more, but I am hoping I will only have to replace one set and that I can finaly stop this madness:mixed:

Sweet. I think mine are Blum. They should work great. Hang in there.

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8652284#post8652284 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by onehundred20
get on with it! JK:) anyway I dont understand why wouldnt a normal hinge work for the doors?


I wish I knew. But as I stated before, either one door overlaps on the other or I end up with a gap.

I was trying these new ones at work and they seem to have quite a bit of adjustment to them so I am hopeful they will work.

Iwill try them tonight.

[STEELERFAN747]

YESSSSSS, FINALY!!!!!!!!! :dance: :bounce3: :dance:

Atlast I was able to get it to work. I ended up using a combination of both hinges I picked up today. I used the blum hinges on the canopy and the generic ones on the stand. I would have used the blum hinges all around except the generic ones worked better on the stand for some reason.


Thanks marino420td, I owe you one. :beer:


I also have another reason to smile today. I received my american dj power center...........



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000972.jpg



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000974.jpg


I have heard nothing but good things about this center and am excited about trying it out. I really like that you have 8 different power plugs you can control seperately. I think it will come in handy.


Well, atleast now I can turn all my energy towards something else besides hinges.

:D :D

[marino420td]

Anytime. I'm glad it helped you out. Now get some water in this tank!

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8654757#post8654757 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by marino420td
Anytime. I'm glad it helped you out. Now get some water in this tank!

Hey, I would have if you had only helped me earlier and kept the hinges a secret. Just kidding. I really appreciate all your help. I know I owe you alot. Thanks again.

[STEELERFAN747]

Sorry that I havent posted recently. I will try and post some new progress pics this week.

[cubber]

Looks like it is going to be s really nice setup!

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8727658#post8727658 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by cubber
Looks like it is going to be s really nice setup!

Thanks cubber, I am really excited and anxious to set it up already. I hope to have it up and running by the begining of January as I still have a few things I need to do to it plus I need to take down all my christmas stuff thay are in the place where my tank will be going.

[servicky]

yes ordered my doors today and got my hinges first 1/2 overlay.... hey you going bare bottom or sand??? I run a closed loop i am hoping to do sand but not a sand storm??? any imput... ohh and sump what ya using.....

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8739060#post8739060 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by servicky
yes ordered my doors today and got my hinges first 1/2 overlay.... hey you going bare bottom or sand??? I run a closed loop i am hoping to do sand but not a sand storm??? any imput... ohh and sump what ya using.....

I will be using sand on the bottom and will have about 3900gph which equals 32x turnaround.

My sump is an aga 50g breeder.

Send me some pics of how your stand is looking.

[HolyScoly]

hey rey post some pics of that village i want to see it and hurry with this setup i think makos roach and spider are about to jump into your EMPTY 120g (by the way to all who are reading this mako is a co-worker who also has a 120 and has been setting it up for well over a year now and its sitting in his garage with a roach and spider in it oh and a new addition a lizard)

[dragonforce]

This is fantastic, I love seeing others immerse themselves in this hobby. Even though it obviously does not look like you need it....good luck!

[STEELERFAN747]

Sorry for the lengthy absence. I have been so busy with work, my son's room and the holidays that I just have not been able to continue on the build.

Today I was off from work, so after going to my sons school to be a part of his Christmas day celebration and then running some errands I took some time in the afternoon to try and get some work done.

First I took the 1/4" wood strips to start the top filler finish....



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000273-1.jpg


After making all the necessary cuts, I started putting everything together.......


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000274.jpg


Then it was on to the 3/4" top filler.....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000275.jpg


Here's a pic of the top filler as I started to assemble it......


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000276.jpg


Now, after making some of the top filler cuts it became painfully evident that I should have done this along time ago. I happened to come to the conclusion that I will not have enough top filler to finish, so I will have to order more tomorrow. This really s***s as next week I will be on vacation and was really hoping to have been able to put this bad boy to bed, but taking into consideration that the holidays are among us I seriously doubt I will have them on time.

Oh well, I guess I could use the time to finish applying the wood filler and stain what I can.

[STEELERFAN747]

I also was able to take a little time to start planning the design for the overflow cover. I will try and incorporate much of the same styling to it.

I wish I could have done more but all I was able to accomplish was the two pillars........



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000278.jpg



But after making these two cuts I am starting to think I may send to make some additional top filler and use it to design a frame which I have not decided yet if I will place it upon a 1/4" or a 3/4" sheet of maple and then finish it off by using some of the inner moldings I used on the pillars..........


Here's a pic of the moldings just in case you forgot what they look like and that way help you get an idea of what I am talking about......



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000489.jpg


Well tomorrow I also plan on possibly taking my sump to get drilled so I may begin the refugium build.

Goodnight for now and God bless.

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8789284#post8789284 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by HolyScoly
hey rey post some pics of that village i want to see it



I had posted a pic of it before but dont know if it just did not come out or if the RC staff removed it because it is not reef related. Just in case It was my fault, I will try and post some pics again later....

[marino420td]

Glad to see you back at it. Sorry if you already answered this but do you not have a local wood supply house that carries your top filler. I was not aware of one in my area so I called a local cabinet maker. He told me of a supply company and I purchased all of my maple from them. Just a suggestion.

I think I like the idea of the overflow cover you are making. They do get pretty nasty to look at. But I would suggest making a removable panel so you can check in there every now and then.

Take some time off, enjoy your Christmas with the family and worry about this later. It will be there when the holidays are over.

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8805530#post8805530 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by marino420td
Glad to see you back at it. Sorry if you already answered this but do you not have a local wood supply house that carries your top filler. I was not aware of one in my area so I called a local cabinet maker. He told me of a supply company and I purchased all of my maple from them. Just a suggestion.

I think I like the idea of the overflow cover you are making. They do get pretty nasty to look at. But I would suggest making a removable panel so you can check in there every now and then.

Take some time off, enjoy your Christmas with the family and worry about this later. It will be there when the holidays are over.

Yes. I do have a local wood supplier. My biggest problem is I dont have a router for the ogee design so I had to order the filler pre-routered which means I am forced to order the filler once again.:(
But thanks for the suggestion and concern.

And yes the overflow cover will be made removable. I will be going to HD today to try and get what I need for it.

I heard about your tang. My condolences. I will try and enjoy the holidays, you do the same.

Merry Christmas and God bless.

[STEELERFAN747]

Well, I placed the order for the additional top filler today. Hopefully thay will not take too long so I can fill in the gaps....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000280.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000281.jpg



I also went to home depot to look for the materials for the overflow cover but came out with something else.

I already had a light for my refugium but I heard this one works great and decided to give it a shot.......


Here's the reflector......



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000282.jpg



and the bulb.......


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000283.jpg


The bulb is a 5500k 19watt bulb that produces an equivalent of 75 watts which I hear produces great chaeto growth.

[STEELERFAN747]

I decided to put this badboy in its new home and give it a test spin........



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000286.jpg


Now this is just temporary as I still need to run all the plumbing and then find it's permanent spot..


Let me tell you, for 19 watts these bulbs are BRIGHT :cool:


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000285.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000284.jpg


These pics were taken in my garage at night time which is extremely dark. Infact I was so impressed with them that I plan on replacing all the bulbs in my home with them. I figure in this hobby you need to try and save wherever you can.

If nothing else I figure they will help my fish feel more at home. (LOL):rollface:


Well, all and all I am quite happy with the way everything is turning out........except for the top filler moldings. I feel they are a little bit to large and pertrude a bit much so I am contimplating borrowing, renting or purchasing a router so I may trim them down a bit.....





http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000279.jpg


But we shall see what happens...

[STEELERFAN747]

Hey, quick question for those of you with refugiums. Do you guys have a cover between the sump and the light?

I was not planning on putting one but iI do see the possiblity of a potential hazard should the light fall into the sump.

I have a friend who put a glass top over the refugium area but I feel this may contribute to heat build up so I am thinking of using egg crate.

What do you guys think?:rolleyes: :confused:

[evilelvis]

I would try the eggcrate, should help with any splashing as well

[maxxII]

Buy two screw hooks. Place them inside the clamps attached to the wood so in the unlikely event the lamp comes loose, the hooks prevent it from falling in the water.
Cheap, unobtrusive, easy.


Nick

[STEELERFAN747]

Merry Christmas [COLOR=green]everybody and a happy new year.


God bless you all.

[STsONpERs]

The stand and canopy are SWEET.

My buddy is a contractor and liked it so much he wanted to give it a shot building it and adding his own little twists.

I think i have decided to go 4ft too!

But a way nice looking setup man

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8833022#post8833022 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by STsONpERs
The stand and canopy are SWEET.

My buddy is a contractor and liked it so much he wanted to give it a shot building it and adding his own little twists.

I think i have decided to go 4ft too!

But a way nice looking setup man


Thanks for your compliments and praises. It is always nice to here from those that like and appreciate what you are doing.

Will post more progress later on today.

[sm fragman]

is that a euroreef rs135 skimmer you are using ? verything looks very nicely done ,,going to be a great looking system ,,you are doing it right by taking your time

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8841400#post8841400 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by sm fragman
is that a euroreef rs135 skimmer you are using ? verything looks very nicely done ,,going to be a great looking system ,,you are doing it right by taking your time


Thank you very much. I appreciate your support. I am looking very excited about it and eventhough I may be doing it right, I cannot wait to finish.

And yes that is an rs135 (you know your stuff) This is the first time I purchase a euro reef and have heard that their skimmers are under rated so I hope I will be o.k.

I know it is a whole lot better than the crap I have been using uptil now si I feel I should be.

Thanks again

[sm fragman]

the 135 shou8ld be ok ,,i think for the 100 more dollars i would have gone wiht the 180

[STEELERFAN747]

Ok, well today was suppose to be the day when I would really get alot of work done on the build (have been really busy with the holidays).

But after getting up at about 10:00 am (usually dont sleep much/ only about 5-6 hours a day so I took advantage being off from work) having breakfast going to lfs to buy water for wc than going to home depot for needed supplies and running Mcdonalds to buy my son some food it was already pretty late in the afternoon.

However I did manage to get a little bit done.
First, I thought of making a lid for my overflow box.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-703F.jpg


Initialy I was going to cover it with eggcrate or mesh but after removing alot of hair algea from my current set ups box that was clogging the u tubes I decided to make a cover that hopefully would not alow that to happen.

I got a piece of smoked acrylic that I had from my 250g days (all that was left) and got to work...



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-704F.jpg


After a few cuts, I was pleased with the outcome.....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-705F.jpg


And the best thing about it is these are one of those times I could tell my wife..... You see honey, I told you storing that old sheet of acrylic all these years would pay off. :D

I am also considering adding a strip of mesh between the lid and box just to make sure nothing makes it's way into the box and ends up clogging the line and possibly causing a disaster. But that will come later.

[STEELERFAN747]

My next task at hand was to tackle the side cover for the overflow box as I want to have access to it but I dont want to have it on display on an everyday basis..

I was originaly going to use a 3/4" plywood for the base of the cover but I decided on using a 1/4" sheet of sandyply.....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-706F.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-707F.jpg



Initial cut piece covering visible overflow....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-708F.jpg


Now after cutting the 3/4" framing I was faced with the hard realization that the nails I have being 1" long would pierce through when attached, so I decided to add a second layer of 1/4" sandyply to fix that.

Then I added the maple wood laminate.. (sorry for the dark pic)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-709F.jpg


Then went on to the frame work.. By this time it is starting to get dark so between my making the cuts and applying the laminate I had to hurry and had to cut out much of the progress, but here is a pic ot the frame .....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-710F.jpg


I then proceeded to the inner moldings trying to hurry since my wife was calling me in for dinner. Now eventhough I am happy with the way it came out, I may try a couple of things before I call it done.

Here are a couple of pics of how it looks for now.....



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-713F.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-714F.jpg

As you can tell by these last pics it was really dark outside so I will try and resume tomorrow....

Please let me know what you guys think of it so far.

[Mizer67]

Your woodworking skills continue to amaze. Your stand looks like it belongs in the lobby of some high dollar hotel. GREAT work!

[marino420td]

It's looking great so far. I really like the idea of covering your overflow chambers. Luckily, mine is internal so you do not see into it.

Did you get the rest of your wood ordered for the top cap? When do you expect to receive it?

Do you finally feel like you are on the downhill side? I know when I built mine, I didn't think I would ever get finished.

Keep up the good work.

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8847657#post8847657 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Mizer67
Your woodworking skills continue to amaze. Your stand looks like it belongs in the lobby of some high dollar hotel. GREAT work!

Thank you sooo much. I am quite happy with the way it's coming out. Thanks for sharing your comments.





It's looking great so far. I really like the idea of covering your overflow chambers. Luckily, mine is internal so you do not see into it.

Did you get the rest of your wood ordered for the top cap? When do you expect to receive it?

Do you finally feel like you are on the downhill side? I know when I built mine, I didn't think I would ever get finished.

Keep up the good work.



Thanks marino, I have ordered the top and expect to receive it in about 10 days (they are backed up due to holidays)

I do see myself coming down the stretch and am looking forward to finishing and seeing some water in it. (I know my wife will be thrilled when she gets her garage back)

I only hope my work does justice to your inspiration.

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8847790#post8847790 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by marino420td
It's looking great so far. I really like the idea of covering your overflow chambers. Luckily, mine is internal so you do not see into it.

Did you get the rest of your wood ordered for the top cap? When do you expect to receive it?

Do you finally feel like you are on the downhill side? I know when I built mine, I didn't think I would ever get finished.

Keep up the good work.




Thanks marino, I have ordered the top and expect to receive it in about 10 days (they are backed up due to holidays)

I do see myself coming down the stretch and am looking forward to finishing and seeing some water in it. (I know my wife will be thrilled when she gets her garage back)

I only hope my work does justice to your inspiration.

[STEELERFAN747]

Well I started this afternoon by switching out the cracked housing on the panworld pump......


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-715F.jpg


Then I grabbed some supplies and began work on the protein skimmer stand.....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-716F.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-717F.jpg


a few cuts and a little assembling and the stand was done. I gor this design from a display I saw in Lowes that they were using to display some lawn water pumps........


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-718F.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-719F.jpg


Heres a pic with the skimmer on top the stand.....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-720F.jpg


It will look a little different in the sump since I trimmed it down a bit. It will be held together by tie straps. Unfortunantely I did not have any large enough to finish it today but will grab some tomorrow.

[STEELERFAN747]

Also, while changing ot the pumps housing, I noticed I was using the cheap pvc (200psi)....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-721F.jpg

and while this may be fine, I dont want to take any chances. So I rebuilt the plumbing using the more solid 450psi pvc..... I really did not mind as I was able to add a few 45 degree angles instead of the original 90. I have heard the 45 d angles are better since they do not restrict as mush as the 90's do.....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-722F.jpg


Then it was on to begin construction of the housing for the American Dj power strip. I grabed an mdf board I had laying around and began construction.

After a few measurments, cuts, gluing and hammering I came up with this....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-723F.jpg


Now eventhough most would have been satisfied with this and probably would have left it like that, I felt that after spending so much time and money to create such a nice piece of furniture, the housing needed a little something extra....

[STEELERFAN747]

I picked up a 1/2" molding to go along with the decor of the stand and dress up the housing a bit......


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-724F.jpg



After a few fast cuts and a little more glue I was happy with the way things were starting to turn up....



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-725F.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-726F.jpg


Then it was on to a dress rehearsal...... Not too bad, I think.....



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-727F.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-728F.jpg



Now eventhough I am not 100% sure of exact placement and I still need to apply some maple veneer to the housing exterior, here is a pic of the housing inside the stand.....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-729F.jpg


Last but not least, I decided to use some left over eggcrate to create a cover for the sump.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-730F.jpg


I probably will make it larger since I want it as extra protection for the fuge light should it fall..

Tomorrow I will send out the sump to get drilled. )sorry but my diy skills and wallet are not such that I would attempt to drill glass)

I will also go to HD to pick up the straps for the stand and a few other trinkets...:fish1: :fish2:

[STEELERFAN747]

Hey guys I have a quik question to ask you. I have the oportunity to choose between 2 different overflow systems for my box and was wondering which one you guys would use?

First a pic of the overflow that came with the tank....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-735F.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-739F.jpg

and now the other choice (aga/ same as new oceanic).....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-736F.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-738F.jpg

I seem to be leaning towards the aga overflow since I like the fact that it has a screen in the opening and seems to be better constructed.
Now what I like about the other is that it seems to be able to allow higher water capacity ....

Pic of both together.....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-737F.jpg

I am really interested in hearing from those of you with aga or oceanic tanks with the same design to hear your opinions.

Thank you in advance.

[Mizer67]

There are lots of threads in the DIY forum about building durso and stockman silent overflows, which may be a little cheaper and possibly better. Just a thought.

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8857445#post8857445 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Mizer67
There are lots of threads in the DIY forum about building durso and stockman silent overflows, which may be a little cheaper and possibly better. Just a thought.

Well thats just the thing, I already own both of these kits so I am just trying to decide which one to use.

[maxxII]

They are both variations of Durso standpipes. I would suggest playing around with both of them to see which one you like best and hang onto the other as a back up for when you decide to clean the working standpipe. The operation of the two should be the same...so its really just a matter of personal preferance. If you want to make a screen for the one that doesnt have one, take a mitre saw to some of the old thin pvc you have lying around from the previous plumbing scheme. Buy an adaptor to fit between the two and just dry fit it on....dont glue cause you will want to get in there sometime for cleaning.

Nick

[scaryperson27]

The corner flow one looks like it could handle more flow. Making a screen should be a piece of cake. I would try steelerfan's idea, or get some Gutter Guard and make a screen out of that.

[STEELERFAN747]

HAPPY NEW YEAR, ALL !!!!!! :celeb3: :celeb1:

I hope everyones new year is off to a great start. I on the other hand woke up to this......

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-772F.jpg


2 of my reef chromis dead. One stuck on the pre filter box and the other on the tank floor getting eaten by my crabs..... Oh well, may they rest in peace.

Well after doing a water change I got back to work for a bit....


First came the mounting of the ty-raps.....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-743F.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-744F.jpg

Now after placing one rap per side the eggcrate seemed sturdy but I like to over do just about everything.

Heres the finished product (alot nicer and neater)..

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-745F.jpg

[STEELERFAN747]

Next it was on to glueing/cementing the plumbing......

I was going to go with the extra strength cement but after reading the back of both and seeing that the extra strength was for pvc upto 12" in diameter and the regular was for 4" diameter, I figuered I would be ok with the regular since I would not be cementing anything above 1" piping.....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-746F.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-747F.jpg

Now I dont really like the look of white pvc and the purple stains so I will be painting them black.

I purchased this can os spray paint,

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-748F.jpg

But after hearing others recommend Krylon fusion paint, I figured I bettergo with that and so I put the painting and rest of plumbing on hold....

So on we go to finishing the power center housing and overflow cover.....

Here are a couple of pics before the maple wood veneer was applied....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-773F.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-774F.jpg

[STEELERFAN747]

And now a couple more of the finished product.....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-775F.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-776F.jpg


And finaly a pic of the finished power center housing in it's final resting place ........


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-778F.jpg


I was really hoping to have been able to do more in the way of progress taking advantage odf the fact that I was on vacation but between the holidays, getting some much needed sleep and spending some quality time with the wife and kid, I was lucky to get this done.

Tomorrow I will look into getting the krylon fusion paint for the plumbing and try and get status info on my sump (being drilled)

[STEELERFAN747]

Well, I picked up the krylon fusion paint today. (sorry but no pics/ I am at work and picked it up during my lunch break)

I will try it out and hopefully post some pics of the plumbing when done.

[adddo]

Nice worksmanship! Keep the pics coming :)

[Zoos]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8874524#post8874524 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by STEELERFAN747


Tomorrow I will look into getting the krylon fusion paint for the plumbing and try and get status info on my sump (being drilled)


Hey Rey, I should have your sump ready in a couple of days I'll give you a call and let you know when you can pick it up.

Felix

[slumpysix]

Outstanding! You're gonna need a crane to place that stand in the house!

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8883694#post8883694 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by lrac2006
Outstanding! You're gonna need a crane to place that stand in the house!

Thank you and yes it is quite heavy.






Hey Rey, I should have your sump ready in a couple of days I'll give you a call and let you know when you can pick it up.

Felix


Sounds great Felix. I appreciate all your help.

[customcolor]

is the painted part of the pvc going in to the water? if so will it have a reaction with the salt water?
by the way the stand is sweet and clean

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8889601#post8889601 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by customcolor
is the painted part of the pvc going in to the water? if so will it have a reaction with the salt water?
by the way the stand is sweet and clean

I have heard krylon fusion paint is reef safe as long as you let it cure a few days, however I will not be painting the pvc that is going in the going in the water, only external pipeing will be painted.

The only internal pipeing I have besides the stand for the skimmer is in the overflow which is covered by the box and by the external wood cover.

since it will not be touching water I probably could have used any paint made for plastic, but since everyone I've heard from recommends krylon fusion then I decided I better listen to those who have already tried and succeded.

and Thank you for your praises, they are greatly appreciated.

I did however receive a little bit of bad news. It seems the construction of the top filler moldings I ordered is behind schedule and they still dont feel I will be receiving them for an additional 10-14 days :(

I will try and get everything else done before then just so that as soon as they are done, I could start getting water in this overdue project.

[cato]

I want to see WATER! ;)




Nice work.:thumbsup:

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8890814#post8890814 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by chirocato
I want to see WATER! ;)




Nice work.:thumbsup:

Me too. And congratulations on the Patriots win today.




Well, I am getting closer to that water fill. I picked up my sump/fuge from Felix (zoos) who I think did a great job with it......


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-786F.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-787F.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-788F.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-791F.jpg


Man is this thing heavy now. I think it weighs about as much as my 90g does.

Well after a light cleaning I was able to put it in the stand just to see how everything looks.....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-792F.jpg

I can almost taste the saltwater now.:D

Tomorrow I will place some eggcrate in the sump to finish of the corner intake which will store live rock rubble and possibly make a shelf which will allow me to does carbon from time to time.

Will post more tomorrow.

[Hop]

Looks pretty good tucked in there:)

[NanoGurl]

wow looks great!

[STEELERFAN747]

Not really much to report, I went to HD and picked up some supplies, among them I got GE brand 100% silicone which seems to be the one everyone recommends as being reef safe........ and yes I made sure it was not mold & mildew resistent.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-795F.jpg


Now even though I got the silicone and I do need to place the eggcrate in the tank, I figured I could always do that inside the garage late in the evenings so I figured I should get to painting the pvc since I really cannot do that inside the garage....

First came the masking....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-796F.jpg

Then the painting....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-797F.jpg

between cementing, masking and painting it really did take along time so I am sorry that I really dont have too much progress to report... but tomorrow is another day.

[STEELERFAN747]

I used Krylon fusion satin black to paint the pvc which is what everyone seems to be recommending as reef safe.....



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-800F.jpg



Now eventhough I am pretty happy with the results, I cant help but think that maybe I should have painted the unioun couplings instead of leaving them their natural grey. I think I may end up painting them as well.

What do you guys think?


Before painting pvc black.....



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/IM000767.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-722F.jpg



and after.......



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-798F.jpg



I still have alot of detail work to do before this build is through and will try to get it done as soon as possible.

please give me your opinions regarding the pvc.....

[servicky]

keep it white But remove all the markings with acetone.... painting them im not sure....... im scared it would peel off over time.... I finnaly got my doors now i gotta stain and paint them if i ever get some free time.... good luck... im still here with ya.....

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8931091#post8931091 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by servicky
keep it white But remove all the markings with acetone.... painting them im not sure....... im scared it would peel off over time.... I finnaly got my doors now i gotta stain and paint them if i ever get some free time.... good luck... im still here with ya.....

Hey nice to hear from you, It's been a long time. Send me some pics, I would love to see what they look like.

As far as the paint goes, everyone here swears by it and states that it will not peel, crack or be any kind of trouble. At this point it would be too costly to begin again, taking in consideration that the pipes, valves and couplings have been cemented together.

So I think black is here to stay.

[servicky]

well if they swear by it i might give it a try.... Ill get some pics up asap.....

[servicky]

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=198004



Well as for finishing the paint heres what i did.. painted it black then sanded some areas and stained them then im going to pus a satin clear on it.. problem is my compressor isnt big enought to shoot the clear with a car paint gun hvlp..????? very small... so i have to get another compressor to finish and paint the doors as welll.. ill keep ya posted i had some crackin in the paint ??? very very small cracks i think it was just too cold to paintthat night... like 40..... hehehe keep ya posted.....

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8932829#post8932829 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by servicky
http://reefcentral.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=198004



Well as for finishing the paint heres what i did.. painted it black then sanded some areas and stained them then im going to pus a satin clear on it.. problem is my compressor isnt big enought to shoot the clear with a car paint gun hvlp..????? very small... so i have to get another compressor to finish and paint the doors as welll.. ill keep ya posted i had some crackin in the paint ??? very very small cracks i think it was just too cold to paintthat night... like 40..... hehehe keep ya posted.....

Does the clear coat have to be sprayed? Cant you just brush it on?

I have heard you can as long as you do a light sanding between coats and use a fine grain (250+) but then again I am not an expert it's just what I've heard.

[customcolor]

u can use a detail gravity spray gun. they dont hold much but u still can spray nice with them with less air....$25 menards. i should know this cuz i spray cars on the side.

[servicky]

I tried to brush it on it was terrible left bubbles all in it .. I sprayed some and it came out perfect only problem is i have like a 2 gallon tank used for nail guns...

[marino420td]

I brushed it on my stand and sprayed the canopy (since it was smaller, I used spray cans of polyurethane).

If you brush it on, buy a good brush. Spend a little more money than you want to on the brush, it will pay off.
Stir the product, do not shake it. Shaking it will incorporate bubbles and you do not want that.
Use long, light strokes. I like to brush a section then go over the entire section very lightly with the brush. Go the entire length of the stand.
You can also use one of those sponge brushes if you want.
Once the coating dries thoroughly, sand with a very fine grit paper and wipe clean. Repeat the process about 100 times :)

[STEELERFAN747]

Sorry for the delay in progress. I have been away recently for a training session and have not had the time to do any work on the stand. Also stopping me is that I have not had anyone to help me lower the tank so I could drill the stand and finish the plumbing.

I tried today to do a little bit of what I could so I worked on the sump.

I added some eggcrate to the bottom of the corner glass box that will house some live rock rubble.....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-805F.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-804F.jpg

I also used some on top of the refugium/sump seperation baffle....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-806F.jpg

I also got some gutter guard to try and create a barrior over the overflow box.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-807F.jpg

painted it black...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-808F.jpg

not overly happy with the way it came out since there is a gap/space that allows access to the overflow box so I will try and remedy it.

applied some gutter guard to the dividing baffle from skimmer section to refugium.....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-810F.jpg

Will try and get ahead on plumbing tomorrow to try and finish this, hopefully in this lifetime:)

[STEELERFAN747]

Hi all. Well my friend Sam (Holyscoly) came by today and I was finaly able to get my tank down and continue with the build.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-824F.jpg

First on the list was preping the tank to get it ready for painting...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-825F.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-826F.jpg


I could probably have done without covering all the tank but I figured better safe than sorry.

I decided to paint the back of the tank instead of going with vinyl backing or tints. I have always painted the back and have never had an issue with it. I decided to use the krylon fusion spray paint in the satin finish.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-827F.jpg

Here is what it looks like after 2 coats. (sorry for the bad pic)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-828F.jpg

In total I applied 6 coats and eventhough it was a little time consumming, at less than $4 it certainly was the right choice for me (I would have spent about $30 for the vinyl)

[STEELERFAN747]

Next on the to do list was to get the holes for the over flow drilled. Would'nt you know it, I was unable to find the hole drill bit so I had to make a quik trip to HD.

Upon returning I got right to work on drilling through the previously marked holes......


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-830F.jpg


The first hole luckily was right on the edge of the 2x4 underneath and the box outline was just a guide as to allow for enough work room to facilitate connection of bulk heads and piping.

I then used a jigsaw to cut out the box.....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-831F.jpg


Luckily the drawn box was oversized and all that room was not needed as I ended up making contact with a 2x4 on the left side and was unable to cut to the oridinal line. (but I should be ok):)


I will be continuing on Thursday and plan for it to be a very progressive day. Hopefully I will be able to get it stained, maybe even clear coated. If so I should be able to get it in the house by the week end and have water in it by next week :D or so I hope :)

[Impala1964]

Were you going to use both of the holes in the overflow as drains?Or one as a return?

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9114107#post9114107 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Impala1964
Were you going to use both of the holes in the overflow as drains?Or one as a return?

It is intended to be used as one drain and one return, however I have thought that I may be using them as 2 drains.

I seem to like that option just so I could have a back-up in case one of the drains clogs, but I am not 100% sure if that is what I will end up doing as that would mean that I would have pipes in the back of the tank which defeits the purpose of going RR with the inner overflow.

WHAT DO YOU GUYS THINK?:confused:

[marino420td]

I don't think it is necessary to have 2 drain holes. My tank only has one (1 1/2") and it has never even come close to clogging.

OT- How are things in Miami this week with the Superbowl circus in town?

[Scuba_Steve]

Tagging along. Im setting up a 120g when I get home from Iraq. You have inspired me to do something great with the stand just as you have.

[cato]

Hey alright! Makin' some progress. Nice job.

[elmatth1]

looking good!

[STEELERFAN747]

Thank you all for all your praise and support it really means alot.

Scuba-steve, thank you for serving and defending this great country of ours. God bless you and come back safe so you could show us all your new tank.

Marino, football fever is in the air. From player appearances, signings, nfl experience, concerts etc..... Wish I could go to the game but at $3000 a ticket, no thank you. I will watch form my couch and save the cash for this money pit hobby of ours. :D


Well, I received the top filler molding and installed it today. I also got some squares to finish the stands top. I had to do a few cuts with the saw and jig but got er done.....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-832F.jpg


Afterwards it was on to the staining process. First I applied the soft wood conditioner.... minwax brand which I picked up at HD, let it soak fo 15minutes then wiped off the excess, Then it was time for the stain. I chose minwax special walnut just cause it sounded sooo special :) jk, actualy my wife was the one who chose it.....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-833F.jpg

[STEELERFAN747]

I then got hard to work with the staining. I must say I was a little bit worried and not quite sure with the color when I first started applying it. Afterwards it started growing on me. There is definantely a staining difference with the different woods, but overall I think it looks pretty good.

Heres a few pics of the canopy......



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-834F.jpg



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-835F.jpg


and the overflow cover....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-836F.jpg

[STEELERFAN747]

Now, I dont know if its due to the different lighting in the garage or if it's due to the color changing as time goes by, but the stand looks a little bit different....

I used the same technique on the canopy, stand and doors. (apply, let soak for 15 min then wipe off excess with rag)





http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-838F.jpg



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-839F.jpg


Now I was hopeing to have applied the clearcoat today, but with your having to wait 8 hrs for the stain to fully dry I had no choice but to wait till tomorrow, which could be a good thing since my wife really is not to sure about the stain color (eventhough she picked it) She wants to see it again tomorrow with the ligt of day. (hopefully it will grow on her as I would really hate to have to restain it again) :(


Wish me luck :)

[Hop]

Well I guess if she doesn't like it... She will have a lot of sanding to do:D

Just kidding. Actually I think that after a good coat of polyurethane, the color will richen up a bit. I think it will look good. Besides, once there is water in it, no one notices the stand:D

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9138022#post9138022 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Hop
Well I guess if she doesn't like it... She will have a lot of sanding to do:D

Just kidding. Actually I think that after a good coat of polyurethane, the color will richen up a bit. I think it will look good. Besides, once there is water in it, no one notices the stand:D



I really hope that is not true, cause otherwise why in the hell did I spend all this time and money? :lol:

[customcolor]

what size return are u going to use on your tank?

[OGReef]

I am going through the samething with my wife right know. I have gone out and bought a ton of samples size cans and taken a ton of scrap wood (oak, maple and cherry) and tried to get her to make up her mind. "to red, to yellow, to dark, to blotchy" AAAAHHHHHHHH.

[STEELERFAN747]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9138606#post9138606 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by customcolor
what size return are u going to use on your tank?

1"

[peanut95]

Looks great! If she doesn't lik I think it would look great at my house;-)

[STEELERFAN747]

Well it's been quite a while since I've posted any pics so let me bring everyone up to speed.

A few days ago I decided to re-stain everything. The old stain was kind of a rust/coffee colored water. I decided to go with something I knew would go on a little darker.. (GEL STAIN)


Here's what I used.....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-844F.jpg


And here are a few before and after shots...

Before.....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-834F.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-838F.jpg


and after....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-841F.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-846F.jpg


Now I like it alot better than before... The paper was used during the application of the clear coat..

Here's what I used.....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v238/Dayami/MVC-843F.jpg