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Unread 06/30/2017, 08:23 PM   #1
jphayes921
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First timer build

Well I wanted start my build and tank journal so everyone can lend some advice along the way. I have been waiting to get a little progress to start a thread so I have some pictures to share. Been doing a lot of research and taking it slow. I recently got a 55gal tank and a 29gal free and have always wanted a salt tank. So here we go. I'm in the process of building my stand with a future upgrade to 120 gal tank. I know getting a larger tank to start is what is advised, but you can not beat free. I also got two 4 bulb T5 fixtures for free that are going to be turned into a led 5 combo. Let me know what you think. Tank is older so I was able to drill and make a weir and overflow with some glass I had. Still working on stand, but it's coming along. Have heater and jabeo pump. Need to order rock, sand and ro/di.

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Unread 06/30/2017, 10:13 PM   #2
scuglass
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Stand looks cool, never thought about putting a drawer in before. Could also be a good place for cord management.

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Unread 07/01/2017, 08:50 AM   #3
jphayes921
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I am hoping to finish the stand in the next week or so. I will post progress pictures. I figured this would be a fun build since I do not see any 55gal with a drilled overflow since newer tanks are usually tempered.

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Unread 07/01/2017, 09:54 AM   #4
Devaji108
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sounds like you are on the right track! nice job on the external over flow box. saves so much space.
yeah cant bet free + you get a chance to see if you enjoy the hobby before going bigger give your self a year or so with this 55 you will learn alot make a few mistakes but with help here not as many if we where on our own cant even imagine...haha

so whats the plan for the tank?


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Unread 07/01/2017, 10:52 AM   #5
jphayes921
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Plan right now is to get it setup and cycling. Ultimate goal is a reef tank. Want some lps and maybe some sps way down the road. I need to drive about 1.5hr away to an lfs that isn't a Petco. Although the Petco near me has a guy that is big into reef tanks that takes care of the fish so the stock there is pretty good, but the other store is recommended by a friend of mine that has a fowlr tank. I am still researching my list for fish, but a fire angel is at least one. Always wanted one. I need to also go for a 1$ tank sale to get a qt tank setup as well. I'm thinking a 10-20gal will work for now.

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Unread 07/03/2017, 07:55 PM   #6
jphayes921
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Quick update. Got some more boards put on the stand. Dark stain or light stain? Corn hole boards I build for reference.

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Unread 07/03/2017, 09:56 PM   #7
Clowning_Around
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I like the dark but weathered look if it has some hints of gray it helps disguise any salt deposits from dribbles before u clean them. I went black/gray with mine for that reason...

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Build http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2638892
Parameters: Temp 77-79degF, Specific Gravity 1.023-1.024, PH 8.1-8.4, Alk 8-12, Ammonia 0, Nitrite 0, Nitrate 0, Phosphate <.2, Calc 3

Current Tank Info: Custom Oak Stand | 75G FO Display | 40G Breeder Sump | MarinePure Ceramic Media Plate | Eshopps x-120 skimmer | Mag9 Return | Aqua Ultraviolet Advantage 2000+ 15w
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Unread 07/03/2017, 09:59 PM   #8
jphayes921
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Thanks that helps. The body of the stand has marine paint to help seal the wood. I also plan on a ton of poly to help protect the outside wood.

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Unread 07/04/2017, 07:48 PM   #9
Reefpuck
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Very cool stand build! Following along.


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Current Tank Info: 90g mixed reef w/ 55g sump/fuge.
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Unread 07/04/2017, 07:53 PM   #10
Deephouse_jedi
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Wow! Great build, thanks for sharing. Love it so far.


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Unread 07/04/2017, 08:06 PM   #11
jphayes921
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Thank you. I appreciate the comments. I will hopefully finish the stand this week. I need to order some more stuff but might do a mock up with tanks and maybe start some plumbing.

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Unread 07/04/2017, 09:25 PM   #12
jphayes921
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With me lighting setup and build I have a 4 bulb T5 that I want to add LEDs as well. I'm thinking one of the black boxes. Will this be too much? Should I and separate switches for each t5 bulb?

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Unread 07/04/2017, 11:13 PM   #13
Arnallop3
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Great build so far. Similar size to my build as well. 55 gal and 30 ruby sump. I'll keep watching progress. I'm on same boat but not as nice of a stand. Great job though. Keep us posted ����


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Unread 07/10/2017, 07:02 PM   #14
jphayes921
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Stand stained. Needs lots of poly to protect wood. Then on to plumbing!

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Unread 08/01/2017, 08:13 PM   #15
jphayes921
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Test fill. Hopefully finish plumbing this week. Then move it to it's home in the basement. My stand makes the 55gal look tiny. Time to keep an eye out for a 120gal.

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Unread 08/02/2017, 11:05 AM   #16
LuizW13
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Digging that stand


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Unread 08/02/2017, 02:09 PM   #17
jphayes921
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Thank you. I wish I would have done a more natural stain, but I do like it.

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Unread 08/03/2017, 10:37 AM   #18
d0ughb0y
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what color stain did you use? and what poly or varnish or protectant?
I just finished assembling my diy stand (also with drawer) and deciding on stain color and I like the color you picked.


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Unread 08/03/2017, 10:52 AM   #19
jphayes921
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I'll send the stain code and polyurethane gloss when I get home. Both from Menards.

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Unread 08/06/2017, 06:01 PM   #20
jphayes921
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Quote:
Originally Posted by d0ughb0y View Post
what color stain did you use? and what poly or varnish or protectant?
I just finished assembling my diy stand (also with drawer) and deciding on stain color and I like the color you picked.
See picture for color

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Unread 08/06/2017, 09:29 PM   #21
rfgonzo
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Your off to a good start, tag


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210 gal reef, 75 gal Refuge with 55 Gal sump mixed reef
100 gal Reef, 75 gal Refuge with 55 gal sump. SPS/LPS &
100 gal Japanese Dragon Moray eel tank with 40 gal sump
75 gal Brazilian Dragon Mor
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Unread 08/07/2017, 09:19 AM   #22
d0ughb0y
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Quote:
Originally Posted by jphayes921 View Post
See picture for color

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thanks!

which polyurethane did you use?
I'm thinking the oil based spar urethane satin finish.


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Unread 08/09/2017, 09:10 AM   #23
jphayes921
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I used the same company oil based triple thick poly.

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Unread 08/17/2017, 07:13 AM   #24
RobZilla04
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Looking really nice!


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90g Mixed Reef
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Unread 08/17/2017, 01:38 PM   #25
Reefpuck
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Stand looks great. I have a bunch of reclaimed wood sitting around and was thinking of doing something similar.


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Current Tank Info: 90g mixed reef w/ 55g sump/fuge.
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