240G Dream Tank of Frustration

[maron6977]

Well , time for an upsize . Currently running a 4' 120g tank & soon to out grow it . So thought I'd go all out & get the tank I've always wanted . With the help of Concept , I think my dream tank will come true , but not without a bunch of frustration (I'm sure). Thinking to start from almost scratch , just picking out a few pieces from my current tank . Not looking forward to the cycle & algae blooms.
I'm a slow typer & believe a pic is worth a 1000 words , so let's get on with what I have so far . Oh Ya , tank should arrive this week !!!

[maron6977]

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/F109B9F8-3421-4020-B84D-91300DCA0A50_zpsivlcux48.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/F109B9F8-3421-4020-B84D-91300DCA0A50_zpsivlcux48.jpg.html)
Tank
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/7FBE146E-2DE3-41CA-A946-5F354353D6A0_zpsewksk1lz.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/7FBE146E-2DE3-41CA-A946-5F354353D6A0_zpsewksk1lz.jpg.html)
Sump
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/5CCDD58C-F274-4FBA-9189-4FFD23010955_zpsnq7svawn.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/5CCDD58C-F274-4FBA-9189-4FFD23010955_zpsnq7svawn.jpg.html)
Helper

[maron6977]

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/B2A09D6A-457B-45AC-8800-343D622CCC74_zpsrnuzi81g.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/B2A09D6A-457B-45AC-8800-343D622CCC74_zpsrnuzi81g.jpg.html)
Rock . Have another 50lbs in other containers
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/DE14E887-5B01-49B0-AFE7-B4E02F0549D7_zpsnnu3akyq.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/DE14E887-5B01-49B0-AFE7-B4E02F0549D7_zpsnnu3akyq.jpg.html)
BK SM250

[maron6977]

Stand
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/95695F3E-4461-422E-9A58-C91E33B2EB60_zps7tbwbbyn.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/95695F3E-4461-422E-9A58-C91E33B2EB60_zps7tbwbbyn.jpg.html)
Base
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/3A25D94C-DE73-4810-BFE5-88E0920B8AC5_zpspczugmgu.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/3A25D94C-DE73-4810-BFE5-88E0920B8AC5_zpspczugmgu.jpg.html)
Top
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/87B1B580-87AB-4612-95EE-D073C92BA869_zpst3pq1pm9.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/87B1B580-87AB-4612-95EE-D073C92BA869_zpst3pq1pm9.jpg.html)
Main structure
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/B440651B-4923-4354-B7A2-D815F56545BF_zpss2ruwweb.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/B440651B-4923-4354-B7A2-D815F56545BF_zpss2ruwweb.jpg.html)
Sheeted with 5/8 birch
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/FB20D958-D391-4F46-8F53-6ED2A379CFD4_zpswkhwc2mb.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/FB20D958-D391-4F46-8F53-6ED2A379CFD4_zpswkhwc2mb.jpg.html)
Stained
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/57F81EB6-BF19-4011-86AA-5773643CAFD9_zpsgpehyr7k.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/57F81EB6-BF19-4011-86AA-5773643CAFD9_zpsgpehyr7k.jpg.html)
In place & awaiting tank . Still have to finish doors & trim

[maron6977]

I also purchased equipment with tank :
3x Kessil A360w, with controller
Return pump Jebo DCT15000
300w heater
2x Maxspect gyre 150
All plumbing from overflow bulkheads up & gate valve

[Myka]

Looks awesome! Can't wait to see it running!

[maron6977]

Thanks, me too !

[jason604]

That stand looks Rly sweet!!

[maron6977]

So picked up a couple more used toys in Great shape !
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/E246CEE2-05FF-4DDC-9B50-2C2200877AAF_zps5dx02tew.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/E246CEE2-05FF-4DDC-9B50-2C2200877AAF_zps5dx02tew.jpg.html)

[maron6977]

Also ordered a couple rock formations from Eli @ Figireefrock . I can't say enough about how nice & helpful he was . Talked to him late the night before, told him what I was after, by noon the next day he was texting pics & digging thru rock for me !
I would highly recommend him & very, very reasonable prices on hard to find rock.
This is what he came up with :
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/F187989D-9763-41BA-BC01-F3D6124C5C85_zpsl6ofapfh.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/F187989D-9763-41BA-BC01-F3D6124C5C85_zpsl6ofapfh.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/CE01BF1A-3761-4D93-992A-3DA2515646E6_zpsinfouvnt.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/CE01BF1A-3761-4D93-992A-3DA2515646E6_zpsinfouvnt.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/7335AAD8-ADB8-43A7-A904-9B547980F996_zpsiw5j2xtm.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/7335AAD8-ADB8-43A7-A904-9B547980F996_zpsiw5j2xtm.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/98144572-C0BD-41E4-A738-7BF467E4B288_zpsgtsueats.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/98144572-C0BD-41E4-A738-7BF467E4B288_zpsgtsueats.jpg.html)

[maron6977]

That stand looks Rly sweet!!

Thanks
Just trying to finish the doors today.
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/19EF8801-3103-430F-AC69-D93A5B6377CB_zpszvoci35p.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/19EF8801-3103-430F-AC69-D93A5B6377CB_zpszvoci35p.jpg.html)

[smokinreefer]

looking good!

i'm actually planning out my tank and it'll be almost identical to yours.

i'm even planning on 2 x gyres and most likely kessils as well!

cant wait to see your progression!

[maron6977]

Sump & Tank built & shipped today .
Sorry no good pics of tank . I'm like a kid on Xmas eve !!!!
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/44094404-5D27-4D4D-97D7-F68637AC77F2_zpsbsf8g6lg.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/44094404-5D27-4D4D-97D7-F68637AC77F2_zpsbsf8g6lg.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/CA47B9C4-4D26-4B61-A97B-37B5430D5BFD_zpsj151ofbh.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/CA47B9C4-4D26-4B61-A97B-37B5430D5BFD_zpsj151ofbh.jpg.html)

[Craigdillman]

Looks good tagging along

[maron6977]

Installed a couple Icecap fans & doors on stand .
Thank god that's over , I hate doing finishing work & have the blisters to prove it.
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/6E5C8B58-46C7-4600-93FB-4475FA0B3FE3_zps8tpg3phk.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/6E5C8B58-46C7-4600-93FB-4475FA0B3FE3_zps8tpg3phk.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/349CF0E0-47D4-433A-8512-017717F4CE79_zpsut8hsygd.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/349CF0E0-47D4-433A-8512-017717F4CE79_zpsut8hsygd.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/DEF1FF17-C2A1-4B5B-8698-815D9F11E41D_zpsinyqqatf.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/DEF1FF17-C2A1-4B5B-8698-815D9F11E41D_zpsinyqqatf.jpg.html)

[The Guy]

:thumb: Fans are a good idea to keep the lower area well ventilated, if you need help I'm available, probably 4 guys minimum is a good idea for lifting and placing. You don't want to crack that new bad boy! :smile:

[maron6977]

Thanks Laurie, I might just take you up on the offer. I'm not sure when it will be delivered & may need some extra help.

[The Guy]

Thanks Laurie, I might just take you up on the offer. I'm not sure when it will be delivered & may need some extra help.
No problem, give me some lead time if possible, there's probably other fellow reefers that will chime in to help I'm sure. :wink:

[maron6977]

Received the rock from Eli this morning at 9am. So grabbed a coffee & started assembling with figicrete . That stuff is cool & sets really fast . Doesn't look quite the way it did from Eli's pics but I think it works .
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/FAD7C3B0-C68C-4F46-B667-8263A0AEAF85_zpsetxx66zu.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/FAD7C3B0-C68C-4F46-B667-8263A0AEAF85_zpsetxx66zu.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/064680EA-717E-4366-8825-5F5CA30D6AAD_zpsgp0a3k07.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/064680EA-717E-4366-8825-5F5CA30D6AAD_zpsgp0a3k07.jpg.html)

[maron6977]

So being very impatient, phoned shipping company & I think I may be getting a tank tomorrow (Saturday).
So if anyone is around late afternoon , in Cloverdale area , I'm trying to round up people .
Mark 604-319-0989 call or text me
Might have enough people but you never know .
By the way : pretty easy , roll on cart , lift 3" lip from garage to house , roll to stand , lift & push .
No Stairs !!!!

[maron6977]

Finally , tank was delivered & on the stand with the help of a few friends .
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/8011FC24-83FD-4112-83CC-DF913B943B3D_zps8igmhh5m.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/8011FC24-83FD-4112-83CC-DF913B943B3D_zps8igmhh5m.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/68848107-9991-4635-A780-B43114820C76_zps1l7ofgcb.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/68848107-9991-4635-A780-B43114820C76_zps1l7ofgcb.jpg.html)

[SeaHorse_Fanatic]

Ooooh pretty:mrgreen:

[Craigdillman]

Nice! Love the peninsula style tanks tagging along

[DCDN]

Great job so far. Following

[maron6977]

Playing around with new toys & mock up of included plumbing .
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/C289021E-7281-4CD5-A87F-17C95576FD98_zpsfwujvtvb.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/C289021E-7281-4CD5-A87F-17C95576FD98_zpsfwujvtvb.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/08F85150-519B-4AE4-89F4-9C66812B2DB2_zpsiy0fsm67.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/08F85150-519B-4AE4-89F4-9C66812B2DB2_zpsiy0fsm67.jpg.html)

[SeaHorse_Fanatic]

Ooooo ME LIKEY Fancy Rock Sculpture. So Purty:mrgreen::wink:

[Bobothemonk]

:pop2:

Looking good, you going to get all new livestock or switch over from other tank?

[maron6977]

Gonna try & do a transfer from my other tank , then shut it down & sell .
Except for a couple problem fish !

[maron6977]

Had a busy day yesterday & this morning . All plumbing done & filled last night . Checked for leaks over a couple hours , looked good so added salt . This morning added rock & did a quick aqua scape - not finalized , just wanted it to finish cycling in the tank.
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/365DAD7B-48FD-4C73-8B18-EB354AE2326E_zpsmxvyjumr.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/365DAD7B-48FD-4C73-8B18-EB354AE2326E_zpsmxvyjumr.jpg.html)
Not as cool as WarDog but think it'll work
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/946B4430-D7DF-45DA-B391-1AA358CCE706_zpshm5p4q7i.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/946B4430-D7DF-45DA-B391-1AA358CCE706_zpshm5p4q7i.jpg.html)
Still just have the 1 light over it sorry !
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/C84C35C9-2FAC-4CAE-A914-1B1860429647_zpsk90x7ozh.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/C84C35C9-2FAC-4CAE-A914-1B1860429647_zpsk90x7ozh.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/CDD59C95-05D6-417D-892B-4F7B6847B9A1_zpsbfybohtx.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/CDD59C95-05D6-417D-892B-4F7B6847B9A1_zpsbfybohtx.jpg.html)

[input80]

Looking great Mark.

[WarDog]

Wow, your plumbing looks neat and tidy, me likey! That cross fitting might give you some problems with flow characteristics but it might not either. All in all, this is shaping up to be a very nice build!

[maron6977]

The sump runs too high & afraid it might overflow . Supposed to run at 8" for skimmer & runs at 9.5" . Had to increase height on gated drain, so wouldn't overflow sump.
Few finish quality problems - chip (should be covered by canopy) , top sump trim - a little butchery , vinyl on bottom glass - air bubbles at one end (end you first see) .
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/C1FAF647-78C9-470C-9355-EEAFDBC66400_zpsyutnvyuj.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/C1FAF647-78C9-470C-9355-EEAFDBC66400_zpsyutnvyuj.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/0F841542-9226-46EF-905E-25311B84420C_zps0jc5g5fy.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/0F841542-9226-46EF-905E-25311B84420C_zps0jc5g5fy.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/Mobile%20Uploads/9F376E4A-C67E-4070-98AA-0979DE7EE1DE_zpssjnnv9wf.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/Mobile%20Uploads/9F376E4A-C67E-4070-98AA-0979DE7EE1DE_zpssjnnv9wf.jpg.html)

[maron6977]

Wow, your plumbing looks neat and tidy, me likey! That cross fitting might give you some problems with flow characteristics but it might not either. All in all, this is shaping up to be a very nice build!

Thanks Warren

[The Guy]

Hey Mark looking great so far, when are you planning the switch over?
:thumb:

[maron6977]

Not sure yet , think'in a week or 2 . Then I'll do a couple test fish - they'll be happy to get out of my sump .

[Skimmer Juice]

lloking good , really like the rock tower

[Myka]

Why is your sump almost overflowing? Where is all the back flow coming from? Did I miss it somewhere, or is the bottom of your tank blue? Leaving it bare-bottom? Plumbing looks great, and I love the spot you picked for the tank. :)

[SeaHorse_Fanatic]

Looks great & I'm sure I'm not the only Canreefer who will continue following this tank build and drooling all over our keyboards (or is it just me?):redface:

[maron6977]

Why is your sump almost overflowing? Where is all the back flow coming from? Did I miss it somewhere, or is the bottom of your tank blue? Leaving it bare-bottom? Plumbing looks great, and I love the spot you picked for the tank. :)

The sump was made & runs too high - barely enough volume when return pump shuts down . Tank runs 3/4" up overflow teeth , with return pump set on speed 4 (was set to 7 & ran approx. 1" up teeth) . Whole 6" end of tank is overflow & drain was made to empty 1/2 down when turned off .
I also had return lines set too deep in water , so that did back flow .
I did make a few adjustments , but when first turned it off ,sump filled to top , then back flowed into ato/refuge (luckily was empty) & filled 1/2 full .

Yes the bottom of the tank is blue (vinyl on outside of glass) & yes I'm leaving it bare-bottom.

Thanks

[maron6977]

Looks great & I'm sure I'm not the only Canreefer who will continue following this tank build and drooling all over our keyboards (or is it just me?):redface:

Thanks Anthony
I think you were right - should have made the tank 26"H . Bottom pane of glass is 20mm & top brace is 14mm , tank runs over an inch from top = actual water height approx. 21.5"

[maron6977]

Got the 3 lights up . Nothing fancy but programmed & had to try them out .
Think'in to add a couple pumps at other end , bottom. You might laugh but going old school (kind of) , I have a old wave maker box. It cycles 3 outlets randomly every 2 min.
Also have another gyre150 but not sure if I'm gonna use it . Maybe vertical in back corner . Anyone have input ?
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/9F8E97AD-A149-4D07-AD5F-27CDB48F354C_zpsfwgfsxsx.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/9F8E97AD-A149-4D07-AD5F-27CDB48F354C_zpsfwgfsxsx.jpg.html)
Also a little disappointed , the 1 Kessil is still kind of bright on 5% , to use as a moon light . But it works

[Parker]

Do you like the coverage of the 3 Kessils across the lenght of the tank?

[maron6977]

Yes , very happy . I am going to add 2 x 4' T5's but just cause I got'em.

[maron6977]

Been busy . Got 2 pumps set up on overflow end , near bottom , set on wave maker from 8am-8pm. I think it does help for that circlular flow around the tank.
I also re-did the rock work - some of it , anyways . Pretty happy with it !
Then I transferred 6 fish & my mushroom/zoa rock out of my sump , that weren't very happy .
Next day , looking at my sps in old tank getting pruned by my blue spot puffer (another thread) I decided to start transferring a few things.
Day after that, things were still doing fairly well , so decided to transfer a few more things & my clowns (had'em for approx 10 yrs)
This is what I'm look'in at now !!!
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/C105EA62-1F4A-47E3-A25D-C20EA18B4D2D_zpsr6r5uxqp.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/C105EA62-1F4A-47E3-A25D-C20EA18B4D2D_zpsr6r5uxqp.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/66E9A3B0-54CD-4FDA-BD83-18EDBB5CB91B_zpsg0wsjvnt.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/66E9A3B0-54CD-4FDA-BD83-18EDBB5CB91B_zpsg0wsjvnt.jpg.html)

[maron6977]

Sorry, not much to update. Been trying to get the water in check. Didn't realize reg IO , Alk was so high & mag & cal was so low - stupid . I usually use reef crystals but thought I'd cheap out & fill the tank with reg. , thinking I'd be cycling for a month or 2 .
Also haven't been able to snap a good pic of tank yet , gotta pull out real camera & see what I can snap.
All fish & corals seem to be doing okay , a little browning here & there , but to be expected . Also starting to go thru algae phase of a new tank 😝

[maron6977]

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/Mobile%20Uploads/100_2158_zpsdl4ax9gm.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/Mobile%20Uploads/100_2158_zpsdl4ax9gm.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/Mobile%20Uploads/100_2156_zpsxe08wxam.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/Mobile%20Uploads/100_2156_zpsxe08wxam.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/Mobile%20Uploads/100_2147_zpsmnmilhgh.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/Mobile%20Uploads/100_2147_zpsmnmilhgh.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/Mobile%20Uploads/100_2141_zps5lcozh4w.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/Mobile%20Uploads/100_2141_zps5lcozh4w.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/Mobile%20Uploads/100_2136_zpswxnt4j9n.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/Mobile%20Uploads/100_2136_zpswxnt4j9n.jpg.html)

[WarDog]

It's looking good! I've got the same problem with the IO, still have 2 more buckets to go through before I can switch. That green monti is looking pretty saweet!

[maron6977]

Got motivated & spent the whole $16 for the canopy frame , came home , cut & assembled .
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/D5C760D2-8A65-43AD-81D6-5747020AEA05_zpsrrxrlaom.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/D5C760D2-8A65-43AD-81D6-5747020AEA05_zpsrrxrlaom.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/895A9BC5-01BF-472A-A442-2242BA4D7933_zpsu8qkunsi.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/895A9BC5-01BF-472A-A442-2242BA4D7933_zpsu8qkunsi.jpg.html)

[Duckhams]

Awesome setup! I love the shelf structure on the left, and that green monti-cap really adds a great dimension to the rock-scape! Im running the same lighting, 2 x kessil A360WE and 4 x T5's, lots of flexibility and options. Tagging along.

[gmann]

very nice set up. im considering doing a similar depth tank (30") and was wondering what the coverage of the 3 kessils is like (website says they have a 24" radius)? Did you add the T5's to supplement the kessils, or because they did not cover the whole tank?

thanks,

Geoff

[maron6977]

The Kessils cover fairly well . Adding T5's cause I have them & thought I'd give them a try . That way I can add different color as well .
Should be done by weekend & I'll snap a pic.


Just got back from Ryan's with a few frags . Crossing fingers !!!!
Thanks Ryan .

[maron6977]

Canopy coming along , main structure stained & T5's mounted .
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/F7C2897F-761E-4F71-A9C2-10AF3432D54B_zpsh1ekmjxc.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/F7C2897F-761E-4F71-A9C2-10AF3432D54B_zpsh1ekmjxc.jpg.html)

[maron6977]

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/4F96D67F-EBE6-4925-9EB9-DC16BE092D6F_zpsggpldbup.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/4F96D67F-EBE6-4925-9EB9-DC16BE092D6F_zpsggpldbup.jpg.html)

[Madreefer]

Sweet setup. Very nice

[maron6977]

Thanks


Got my controller , power bars & timers all transfered hooked up & organized !
Lol !!!
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/8F4577EB-E93B-4EC6-A124-53AB16145669_zpswc6dcwcm.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/8F4577EB-E93B-4EC6-A124-53AB16145669_zpswc6dcwcm.jpg.html)

[maron6977]

Sorry , no pics this time .
Been trying to get dosers dialed in . I'm close.
Added a few frags , thanks to Ryan & Walter. They seem to be doing good so far , except for 1 - tenius . A bit of STN , but alk is still a bit high - 10 . Moved it & see how it goes.
Picked up a few fish - 2 x anthias , naso , power blue & 2x star fish .
Power blue had ich & I don't have a quarantine tank , so in he went . I'm not super worried about that , cause I know the rest of my fish are quite health.
So far , so good . Ich is very minimal & no signs on any other fish . Now just get him eating & fattened up !
Staining pieces for canopy but weather permitting . Got to finish soon otherwise I'll have to wait till next June . Should be done in 1 week & hopefully I can sit back & enjoy it for a bit - till the next water change .


Flow - I added 2x hydor pumps cycling every 2min for 8hrs day .
Found it was a little much , turned them off & just running the gyre 150 . Surprising it seems good , right now just enough . Amazing for just 1 pump !
Mark

[maron6977]

Well, adding the fish with ich was one of the worst things I've done since starting this hobby 10yrs ago. It started off not too bad , then ramped up drastically over the next week . My tangs all had it bad & triggers . Tried Medic , garlic & fired up UV it seemed to help , but after another week the rest of the fish were getting it pretty bad . So it's been 3 weeks , tangs & triggers are looking pretty good . But a lot of the smaller fish have started dying off . Figure I've lost at least 10 ! And , oh Ya , power blue died after first week . Ich wasn't too bad but just wouldn't eat.

I remember having ich a couple times over my history & was never this bad .

On the flip side , everything else looks pretty good , considering .

[Myka]

I remember having ich a couple times over my history & was never this bad .

My more recent experiences with Ich have been similar - it was much worse than years ago.

I'd never, ever put a fish in my tank with known Ich though, that's not a good idea. It's a shame that you lost 10 fish to your decision. Imo, you really should consider a quarantine protocol bevause the size of your tank suggests you could lose many fish to just one infected one.

[Duckhams]

Well, adding the fish with ich was one of the worst things I've done since starting this hobby 10yrs ago. It started off not too bad , then ramped up drastically over the next week . My tangs all had it bad & triggers . Tried Medic , garlic & fired up UV it seemed to help , but after another week the rest of the fish were getting it pretty bad . So it's been 3 weeks , tangs & triggers are looking pretty good . But a lot of the smaller fish have started dying off . Figure I've lost at least 10 ! And , oh Ya , power blue died after first week . Ich wasn't too bad but just wouldn't eat.

I remember having ich a couple times over my history & was never this bad .

On the flip side , everything else looks pretty good , considering .

So sorry to hear that. It sounds like you put up a good fight trying to save them, and thank you for sharing your experience so honestly. If you don't have/can't setup a QT, maybe the LFS you purchase fish from will hold them for you in a medicated QT tank. This isn't ideal, but still another line of defence.

[maron6977]

So picked up a 26g bow front tank , stand , light & aqua clear filter . Gonna set it up as a quarantine .
Is that filter good enough ? Would I need a skimmer ???
Thinking to add live rock , etc out of my main tank sump & get everything going . Figure I got a couple months !

[Myka]

So picked up a 26g bow front tank , stand , light & aqua clear filter . Gonna set it up as a quarantine .
Is that filter good enough ? Would I need a skimmer ???
Thinking to add live rock , etc out of my main tank sump & get everything going . Figure I got a couple months !

Excellent! The filter is fine, you may want to add a small Koralia or other type of cheap powerhead as some medications lower the oxygen level and pointing a powerhead at the surface helps with gas exchange. It helps to keep the scum off the surface too. You don't need a skimmer. Keep in mind that you won't be able to keep larger fish like Tangs or Rabbitfish in a QT that size though.

There are two ways (or many more) to set up a QT using live rock. The first method is you medicate with the rock/sand in the QT and that rock/sand has been sacrificed. It can never be used for a reef tank ever again. Or, you can use live rock, but skip the sand, and if you have to medicate you can remove the rock and replace it with a few pieces of PVC pipe. On the other hand, you can skip the live rock and sand and just use PVC pipe, or buy a couple fake plastic rock/coral formations. I've found that fish do better and are more comfortable if you provide either real live rock or fake formations rather than PVC. I think it's mainly due to the color - the darker colors help the fish feel more comfortable.

[maron6977]

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/9E5890A7-D049-4DFA-84E7-5F34A8987F6F_zpsm3eupr49.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/9E5890A7-D049-4DFA-84E7-5F34A8987F6F_zpsm3eupr49.jpg.html)
Just to show it isn't a complete disaster !

[input80]

Looking really good Mark.

[Myka]

Doesn't look like a disaster to me. :)

[maron6977]

Thanks
Dave (Concept) was out & cut down my sump baffle . Running skimmer in 8" of water now . Thanks again Dave !!!
Snapped a couple pics at peak light time . Sorry, still phone pics .
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/A7F9D222-AB4F-4CF1-9C27-4CD7D49913FE_zpswb6ekhpo.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/A7F9D222-AB4F-4CF1-9C27-4CD7D49913FE_zpswb6ekhpo.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/377B9882-4CAE-4281-B5F2-0760EB7C9BD0_zpsibcekfy3.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/377B9882-4CAE-4281-B5F2-0760EB7C9BD0_zpsibcekfy3.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/CCD1A53C-44AF-4834-9426-30916E3B8C3F_zpsomqha89w.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/CCD1A53C-44AF-4834-9426-30916E3B8C3F_zpsomqha89w.jpg.html)

[Reef Pilot]

Looks pretty darn good to me, Mark.

[Wretch]

Looks pretty darn good to me, Mark.

I would have to agree. You seem very much headed in the right direction. Looks good.

[maron6977]

Thanks guys .
And Walter , the frags I got from you are my favorites & doing great !

[Reef Pilot]

Thanks guys .
And Walter , the frags I got from you are my favorites & doing great !
Glad to hear it, Mark, and hope your fish will get back on track as well.

[Myka]

Should we change the thread title yet? Or would that jinx it? :p

[maron6977]

No , I'm good .
Loosing over a dozen fish is pretty frustrating !
And I still have to restock in a few months .

[Madreefer]

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/66E9A3B0-54CD-4FDA-BD83-18EDBB5CB91B_zpsg0wsjvnt.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/66E9A3B0-54CD-4FDA-BD83-18EDBB5CB91B_zpsg0wsjvnt.jpg.html)

Your tank looks great. What do you have for triggers in it?
Skimming through your journal I came across this older pic, ummm whats goin on behind your tank:lol:

[maron6977]

A Niger trigger & female blue throat trigger .
Haha , wife watching so you think you can dance . It's projected on 120" screen.

[maron6977]

So , I'm on the second page , time for an update.
Ick seems to be gone weeks ago . Everything was doing good so added some fish , back up to a full house again .
Bought myself a Xmas gift - calcium reactor . Took the dosers off line , except for my foz down .
So at this point , just trying to dial in Cal. reactor , hopefully everything will become a little more steady & I'll regain some of my color lose .
Considering tank is 3-4 months old , pretty happy with it - but I guess I should be with $$$ spent .
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/419B506D-3D32-43AD-8E95-E02AD259F96B_zps4jxpaxrq.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/419B506D-3D32-43AD-8E95-E02AD259F96B_zps4jxpaxrq.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/275EFB5B-FC60-4AF0-854D-A96D62AA91FA_zpsfxtrujze.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/275EFB5B-FC60-4AF0-854D-A96D62AA91FA_zpsfxtrujze.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/1140DC3A-0FA0-4900-9284-B598678917E9_zpsasuvnuz9.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/1140DC3A-0FA0-4900-9284-B598678917E9_zpsasuvnuz9.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/23BC1610-87BF-4962-97E8-DA6E4F9EAD62_zpsli0ulg2q.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/23BC1610-87BF-4962-97E8-DA6E4F9EAD62_zpsli0ulg2q.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/3B765C11-E99D-42F4-B8E5-3AB30B90464D_zpsyhjlgcgd.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/3B765C11-E99D-42F4-B8E5-3AB30B90464D_zpsyhjlgcgd.jpg.html)

[Dearth]

Damn mighty fine tank there glad to see it doing very well

[maron6977]

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/1E4C9504-DD86-4FFB-8445-189134D704F6_zpsmh6wsqpo.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/1E4C9504-DD86-4FFB-8445-189134D704F6_zpsmh6wsqpo.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/6BE1C6DA-B677-49F6-814B-5DA7080EF1DA_zpsytsqkbfo.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/6BE1C6DA-B677-49F6-814B-5DA7080EF1DA_zpsytsqkbfo.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/CD18B43F-ACF8-4A6F-AAFD-6D4BD6CB0229_zpsdelm7dze.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/CD18B43F-ACF8-4A6F-AAFD-6D4BD6CB0229_zpsdelm7dze.jpg.html)

[Ryanerickson]

Looks great mark

[maron6977]

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/35F7E419-9B07-4CF8-8104-A492FF32AB19_zps9nwy7vk9.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/35F7E419-9B07-4CF8-8104-A492FF32AB19_zps9nwy7vk9.jpg.html)

[maron6977]

Thanks Ryan !

[input80]

Coming along really well Mark.

[mattr]

LOOKING GREAT!

[SeaHorse_Fanatic]

OK, we're adding you to the tank tour for the Surrey/Fraser Valley stops.:wink:

[maron6977]

Finally got a Ro-Di unit . Was on a water meter & always afraid of all the waste water . Talking to Tyler & Albert I decided to get one . Thanks guys !!!
It's the Vertex Deluxe w/1:1 ratio .
Tank is doing good , really good . Sps is loosing it's brown & coloring up .
Think I'm at the 6 month mark & looking forward to see it at 1 year .
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/CC2E5BB9-ADD3-401F-9EF9-4ABAB5C9C5F9_zpsjmcfuoet.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/CC2E5BB9-ADD3-401F-9EF9-4ABAB5C9C5F9_zpsjmcfuoet.jpg.html)

[maron6977]

Pics from over last 6 months since starting tank & today.
Sorry still cell phone pics , but you get the idea.
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/6853A5A2-DBC4-4A10-95FA-7F42FD26918C_zpsn0qwfg5k.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/6853A5A2-DBC4-4A10-95FA-7F42FD26918C_zpsn0qwfg5k.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/38C2F801-98AF-4770-A48C-09DC98DCC57D_zpsube0mlww.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/38C2F801-98AF-4770-A48C-09DC98DCC57D_zpsube0mlww.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/C74959FA-517C-4542-81A3-C2685E835131_zpsecdstc57.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/C74959FA-517C-4542-81A3-C2685E835131_zpsecdstc57.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/779A8778-2E24-4BC0-B02E-827C30596B0E_zpsxxbfoggy.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/779A8778-2E24-4BC0-B02E-827C30596B0E_zpsxxbfoggy.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/2B137839-D0F4-42C2-BC77-18B9580499CA_zps1j8eqlxw.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/2B137839-D0F4-42C2-BC77-18B9580499CA_zps1j8eqlxw.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/576B986E-0207-4AAF-B635-B4868366D7A4_zpsuxelqbzj.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/576B986E-0207-4AAF-B635-B4868366D7A4_zpsuxelqbzj.jpg.html)

[maron6977]

Been a while since I've updated . Things have been up & down . Happy how things are coming, not as impressive as some people's. But I'm happy with it & can't wait to see it in another year !
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/7E71A746-E7AC-44D3-8857-A6EDCDD8C532_zpsiea5x1ef.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/7E71A746-E7AC-44D3-8857-A6EDCDD8C532_zpsiea5x1ef.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/E2776A51-1DD6-42DF-B959-67A1B45DB4A3_zpstjwusuu1.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/E2776A51-1DD6-42DF-B959-67A1B45DB4A3_zpstjwusuu1.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/682489AC-03F8-4015-B105-C067B2BCD88F_zps3rckftrk.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/682489AC-03F8-4015-B105-C067B2BCD88F_zps3rckftrk.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/990E4700-4DBD-407C-9D26-724117930D68_zpsxxs9jpnd.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/990E4700-4DBD-407C-9D26-724117930D68_zpsxxs9jpnd.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/59915EF2-CA2B-4253-9400-A8F50E12B116_zpsvg3jrkhb.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/59915EF2-CA2B-4253-9400-A8F50E12B116_zpsvg3jrkhb.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/DB07444D-60E5-45C9-AB38-02412F221AE3_zpsk5rsql7y.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/DB07444D-60E5-45C9-AB38-02412F221AE3_zpsk5rsql7y.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/1FD961DE-5B94-4701-A7A3-36EFF3F3490D_zpso1pmgnlh.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/1FD961DE-5B94-4701-A7A3-36EFF3F3490D_zpso1pmgnlh.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/EF5E99BD-21E7-4897-84BF-DC25B71E2A17_zpsybkjnubx.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/EF5E99BD-21E7-4897-84BF-DC25B71E2A17_zpsybkjnubx.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/772A48DE-EC4C-443B-8C20-BC46C04B6547_zpslia9otle.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/772A48DE-EC4C-443B-8C20-BC46C04B6547_zpslia9otle.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/70C10FB6-13F6-476C-8DB4-41CDFB0CFA04_zpsa7dithpz.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/70C10FB6-13F6-476C-8DB4-41CDFB0CFA04_zpsa7dithpz.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/14AEE8DF-0CD2-41C6-AE7F-B2F11AAE3C80_zpsi8wrfdqo.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/14AEE8DF-0CD2-41C6-AE7F-B2F11AAE3C80_zpsi8wrfdqo.jpg.html)
Wholly that was a lot of pics .
Sorry still iPhone pics !

[Myka]

Looks awesome! You have some really sweet SPS in there. :)

[maron6977]

Thanks Mindy
😀

[input80]

Nicely done Mark,,,,,,,,, Hoping ours can look as good in such a short space of time :)

[maron6977]

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/5E11910F-8BEB-40F6-BACE-6936A0EDDBCA_zpso3znm7g2.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/5E11910F-8BEB-40F6-BACE-6936A0EDDBCA_zpso3znm7g2.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/87FE5EC0-42C1-4FB1-9EAB-E9AA961E452D_zpsah0lxniy.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/87FE5EC0-42C1-4FB1-9EAB-E9AA961E452D_zpsah0lxniy.jpg.html)

[maron6977]

Been a few months & have changed/upgraded a few things.
First I upgraded controller , from reefkeeper lite to Reefkeeper elite. Lite could only do 4 module & it was full , second could only see 1 line of display & then have to scroll . New one does 4 lines & a lot easier to access modules .
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/34DA950D-31E5-46D8-AA64-EEF3601EF1DF_zpsycttaxq3.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/34DA950D-31E5-46D8-AA64-EEF3601EF1DF_zpsycttaxq3.jpg.html)
Also picked up a couple new fish, clown tang & Harlequintusk. The tang was/is so small but feisty , took about a week to get not chased. Now he chases the gold spot rabbit fish & hippo away from the norri clip every morning.
The tusk , I've been wanting & looking for about a year . Finally got a tip from a fellow Canreefer & picked him up from the pet store in Abby the next day . Again took a few days for everyone to get used to the new comer, but all good now .
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/2E7FE2E7-FCE9-4A6B-8BF9-CD6426614FA6_zpsng3t7c8n.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/2E7FE2E7-FCE9-4A6B-8BF9-CD6426614FA6_zpsng3t7c8n.jpg.html)
Changed my Ato system from a gravity fed from 15g rubber maid container to float valve , to acrylic 35g tank, aqua lifter pump controlled by RKE & float switch. That feeds into Avast kalk stirrer . Was having trouble keeping PH up & also calcium reactor couldn't keep up to consumption. Just got that online & still trying to dial it in . Good results so far .
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/DA050178-E92C-4FB9-9E67-7FE9E0C1C823_zpsvvbpcypd.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/DA050178-E92C-4FB9-9E67-7FE9E0C1C823_zpsvvbpcypd.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/E9D814BA-7C33-4767-85CD-1DFB3B2BE6C8_zpswwkaazkw.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/E9D814BA-7C33-4767-85CD-1DFB3B2BE6C8_zpswwkaazkw.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/45BC0CB0-BAA0-49A9-963A-D8285626D946_zpsg5eveu5z.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/45BC0CB0-BAA0-49A9-963A-D8285626D946_zpsg5eveu5z.jpg.html)

Because of the bigger water storage , had to build a new stand . I think turned out okay , considering its 2x4's & plywood !
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/63889E36-DA9D-44C2-9D6E-7B9B081F6CDF_zpsitsgzfkz.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/63889E36-DA9D-44C2-9D6E-7B9B081F6CDF_zpsitsgzfkz.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/5E401F9A-952A-49D4-AC68-54B8C4D95F4D_zpsheq33usg.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/5E401F9A-952A-49D4-AC68-54B8C4D95F4D_zpsheq33usg.jpg.html)
Glued & screwed!
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/5E5AF2D0-53C8-4B83-9A2A-B6BD62A0E626_zpsbjjzyxiy.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/5E5AF2D0-53C8-4B83-9A2A-B6BD62A0E626_zpsbjjzyxiy.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/C22DB812-A139-4DFD-BF4C-D9470672585E_zpstvqgsp49.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/C22DB812-A139-4DFD-BF4C-D9470672585E_zpstvqgsp49.jpg.html)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/02166AEA-62FB-4D12-B18E-AC92DE4337F7_zps2yzx3kmc.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/02166AEA-62FB-4D12-B18E-AC92DE4337F7_zps2yzx3kmc.jpg.html)
Lastly , to still increase my PH , I'm trying a secondary chamber after calcium reactor . Just a spare reactor body I had with media . Will see how it goes .
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c49/maron6977/3027C663-549D-4518-A951-2FE51453D0C5_zpsc9o8ipiv.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/maron6977/media/3027C663-549D-4518-A951-2FE51453D0C5_zpsc9o8ipiv.jpg.html)