lockrookie's 180g (build #3) [Archive] - Canreef Aquatics Bulletin Board

lockrookie

12-26-2011, 03:19 AM

So here it is i currently have a 90g tank my first saltwater attempt. i enjoy my 90 but having seen so many of your tanks in the city, i have always wished i could build a larger tank. when thoughts of the 50g came about we originaly wanted to build a 400g in our basement. regretfully with the daycare we could not take up precious play space.so we built the 50g

the 50g build was such a blast trying new things experimenting. in the end i was very pleased with the outcome...just not the added power due to the halides lol.may change that to leds within the year.

anywho the 50g build gave be a whole new thought process due to its success so i planned to rebuild on the same stand a 120g tank from scratch got some quotes from some glass companies and almost died. i could have bought a new tank custom made cheaper lol except shipping would kill me.

so for the past year i have been watching used regina and poof a guy was selling a 180g tank for 180 bucks due to the front pane cracked on him (this is why you use foam under your tank ppl) his house shifted one end dropped the other stayed put and snap 180g all over your foor.

but i talked the guy down to 150$ and now own a broken glass box...lol i was going to have it cut up to make my 120 but my loving wife suggests if the floor will handle the weight why not build the 180... really love my wife.. and the way the supports are in my home i will be ok. thus for the reason for this thread

my 180g upgrade.. thanks for following

my 90g in the beginning
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/100_5907.jpg

my 90g now
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/100_0013.jpg

future 180 as it is now lol
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/384066_264338820293887_100001533135643_732760_1433 119076_n.jpg

steve fedyk

12-26-2011, 03:46 AM

you should get a price on low iron vs. regular glass when you go to replace the old cracked one.

Are you planning on using an internal or external over flow.

lockrookie

12-26-2011, 04:04 AM

i will be looking into the different costs definately my father gets glass at wholesale cost sooo thats a bonus

the tank will be up against a wall so i cant do externaleven if i wanted to regretfully it willbe internal overflows but i will be hiding the overflows and possibly the wolback wall with diy rockwall structures so that i can also hide the return pumbing i dislike seeing plumbing if i can hide powerheads i will do so as well see my 50g thread to see what i mean.

lockrookie

12-27-2011, 04:16 PM

lockrookie

12-28-2011, 04:43 PM

priced out glass for front panel this morning looking at 170 bucks for regular glass but

if i go starphire it will cost me 500 to replace both side panels and front pane. i have one more price to search out before i decide what route to go...i have to take in to concideration that we have twin girs to feed lol

Nano

12-28-2011, 04:48 PM

Personally I would go with regular glass but thats just my opinion, I hear starfire scratches very easily

lockrookie

12-28-2011, 06:34 PM

i have heard that as well and that is a deciding factor in all this as well but yet in my current tank i have regular glass and it and have managed to scratch it as well so im hoping that if im extra careful and not use cheap scrapers i will be abletokeep it scratch free for at leasst a year lol

Nano

12-28-2011, 06:47 PM

yea I have regular glass on my cichlid tank, and the sand alone, has cause some scratches, so I guess it depends on the amount of abuse too! I know you can buy those plastic scrappers for acrylic, I'm sure they would work for star fire, I'm just not sure how well

lockrookie

12-28-2011, 07:02 PM

most scrached happen from substrate getting sandwiched in the scraper thats how mine happened anyways but since ive used magfloat i havent had an issue.. nothings perfect forever.

lockrookie

01-01-2012, 06:23 PM

so i have been doing some drawing and yes it looks simular to the tank i currently have we love our stand and wish to keep it the same if possible

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/180withsump.jpg

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/180withsumpb.jpg

any thoughts and ideas let em shoot

-=James=-

01-02-2012, 03:47 AM

lockrookie

01-02-2012, 04:14 AM

I have mine setup exactly the same as your drawing. 2 cross braces on both sides of the overflow is enough.

Im guessing youre doing a bean overflow. I would put the 2 standpipes higher to have the top caps near the water surface. You'll need to put an airline on one of the standpipes.

If I was to do it over, I would build an external or coast to coast overflow instead of the center internal overflow to get more tank space to play with.

thank you that eases my mind a bit i still may try to make a sort of euro brace if i break it on irst try i stil lhave the option of two center braces lol.

yes i think thats wat its called i didnt do exact drawing still getting used to the program but the pipes will be higher when i did my 50 i just drilled a hole in the top and it was eno ough worked really well. the other pipe i just let as a tube.

i would love to do an external overflow, if i had the room and space to do one, instead this tank will be up against the wall with maybe 2" away if im lucky for room for wireing.. ir i may have to put a hinged mirror over a huge hole i may inflict into the guest bedroom wall. but hopefully it doesnt come to that.

even so the overflow will have its purpose as i will build a diy rockscape that covers it and hides all the tanks plumbing for the return pump/ future closed loop so that its not seen in the tank at all.i may still have to use powerheads regretfully but if the closed loop works as my mind envisions. it shouldnt be many. an xamplel of this is on my 50g build. i love how it worked.

lockrookie

01-06-2012, 07:10 AM

so its like late and my mind is still working overtime since i cant start dismantling until i either find room in house or spring arrives... i have compiled a ton of ideas stolen from numerouse websites as to how im going to hide powerheads. i will leave that for a surprise later on tho. i just hope it works as my mind envisions. just because i think ofsomething doesnt mean im right lol.

ive been thinking of stocklist i know i should be thinking bigger tank must have more fish. but i thin id be better off having less and relaxed fish over over stuffed and shy.

currently in my 90 is as follows:
regal tang
humma humma trigger (thus far is behaving like a champ)
mated pair o clowns
cleaner wrasse (who now thinks i need cleaning when im working in the tank)
manderin goby
orange spotted goby sand sifter
lawnmower blenny
yellow tang
coral banded shrimp

so my thoughts of additions to this tank would be as follows;
either orange shoulder or powder blue tang
fox face rabbit fish
(after tank has been running at least a year)possibly coral banded
maybe 3 royal grammas.

any other ideas are welcome. reasearch keeps my mind from wandering to other crazy ideas.

msjboy

01-06-2012, 03:39 PM

lockrookie

01-14-2012, 09:09 PM

Take a look at the new super sized res sea max tanks construction which is on their site...some innovative features which include hiding the edges of the sand a bit...this allows deeper sand without the deeper sand look.
I am also not sure what kinda glass they use but it is supposedly even better tham starfire too.

Msjboy

sorry for the late reply i dont get notified atm of comments and missed it

i did look at the tanks and do try to hide the sand bed a bit with moulding. in fact i like to hide everything if i can..

lockrookie

01-14-2012, 09:10 PM

so i picked up this week from pats pets (thanks pat) 2 33g tanks. i will be tearing them apart and making a 50g sump out of 2 possibly a third i already own. the sump will measure 36 x 18 x 18 and built simular to my 50g;s sump just wider. and a bigger skimmer chamber

the skimmer chamber will be 12 x12 with a floss chamber 6 x12 where the water comes in. my built in refugium on opposite side. i thought about making the sump bigger but to reduce wieght i figured this is still workable as long as i dont have alot of flow back with power outages. definately worth a test before set up. lol

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/sump2b.jpg

another idea i had was to have a carbon bag chamber tomake it easy to replace carbon still undecided which route ill go or if its worth it.

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/sump2.jpg

i hope to be able to run a line from my rodi for auto top off as well this will be tricky since it on the opposite side of the house in the basement with finished ceilings. but hey everyone loves a challenge. but would make this system run better if i can.

any ideas or suggestions is welcomed

lockrookie

01-22-2012, 04:34 PM

so it begins i have decided to start with building the sump. backwards? maybe.. but im hoping it will tide me over untill i can order glass to repair teh broken pane.

so to build this sump i have purchased from pats 2 33g tanks 36x12x18 and i had one laying around for 8 months from another project i couldnt find room to set up. from these three tanks i will have enough material to build a 36x18x18 tank for my sump. will post pics as i go.

The Grizz

01-22-2012, 10:58 PM

Are you not done this build yet :twised: JK Jeffers, but I would like to see some actual pics of you getting some shyte done.:biggrin:

lockrookie

01-23-2012, 12:23 AM

Are you not done this build yet :twised: JK Jeffers, but I would like to see some actual pics of you getting some shyte done.:biggrin:

im lacking workspace right now the girls take up alot of it lol last build i did in ehat is now thier babyroom andour other room is set up a temporary office for the moment so this buid will be going slowly. just finished tearing apart the 3 33g tanks just have to clean off the sylicone and set it together. so yes there will be pics. i doubt the tank will be running until fall.

i did purchace a calcuim reactor kit and this week im getting the halides for it(.. temporary untli i can affford led's.

still deciding on return pump

Nano

01-23-2012, 01:14 AM

Well if your tanks not going to be running til fall why not wait and set aside the funds for leds if that's an option

lockrookie

01-23-2012, 01:28 AM

Well if your tanks not going to be running til fall why not wait and set aside the funds for leds if that's an option

the wife and i had twins this past july...so i can't afford to spend over a grand on lights right now on a 6 foot tank . buti ccanpurchace a little bit here and there overtime to get them in the future. babies first. wife seond then my obsession.. this year is also our 10th aniversary and since she has so graciously given the go ahead for this build i must plan something spectacular for her.

lockrookie

01-24-2012, 05:39 AM

begining to regret the whole take apart scummy old tanks to build shiney new sump idea. fingers are sore from scraping of sylicone and crud off 6 36x18 panels... but when done ill have the satisfaction that i saved a lot of money lol

if i get time tomorrow night time to do some slicing and diceing

lockrookie

01-28-2012, 03:23 AM

so tonight the sump build has begun cut 2 pieces of the glass for the ends and siliconed in place

roughly what the glass looked like before

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/101_6561.jpg

and almost together and together

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/101_6559.jpg

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/101_6560.jpg

now to let it set dry and water test on sunday dont want to rush the cure time may even wait longer. then let the partitioning begin.

Coralgurl

01-28-2012, 03:28 AM

Ouch, that looks like a lot of work!! Looks good so far!

lockrookie

01-28-2012, 03:33 AM

Ouch, that looks like a lot of work!! Looks good so far!

cleaning the glass not my fav but saved me huge cash dollars.

setting tank together with cutting the two pieces 20 min. i just have to find a trim to add along the edge for the sharp cuts. my thumb suffered but whats a build without blood sacrifices.

The Grizz

01-28-2012, 03:45 AM

Looking good Jeff :thumb:

lockrookie

01-28-2012, 04:03 AM

Looking good Jeff :thumb:
thanks greg.. its a small start if all goes as well as planned will have pics of my lights i got from -=james=- thinking of adding some led's to the mix for a three part sunset then moonlights.

next step after sump tho is purchase the glass to fix the 180.

Coralgurl

01-28-2012, 04:16 AM

It's a great start! You make it look easy ... Hopefully the leak test goes well!

lockrookie

01-28-2012, 04:31 AM

It's a great start! You make it look easy ... Hopefully the leak test goes well!
nothing is easy and trust me it will get harder as it goes along. i dont have a simple plan in my head. i forsee alot of resin . last time i used it i got a bit high. and that was a small rockwall ive been banned to the garage for that project. true test will be when i repair the 180 if it will leak or blow up when fill lol.

but thank you im sure the leak test will be fine. i just cant wait till i can take over the guest room and make it a tank building shop. thats when this project will take flight. the waaiting is killing me lol

Coralgurl

01-28-2012, 04:45 AM

I knew it, diys not as simple as they say! Finally an admission :lol: lol

I know what you mean about space to work or even set up. Mine wouldn't have been possible but we had one of our kids move out, so freed up a room in the basement, another kid moved downstairs, office moved to upstairs bedroom and I get a fish room! Timing worked well!

I can't help with the 180 but I'm sure it will be fine. Having the tank sit on my floor for 2 weeks was torture, can't imagine waiting longer!! Do you have a tank going now?

lockrookie

01-28-2012, 05:01 AM

It's a great start! You make it look easy ... Hopefully the leak test goes well!

I knew it, diys not as simple as they say! Finally an admission :lol: lol

I know what you mean about space to work or even set up. Mine wouldn't have been possible but we had one of our kids move out, so freed up a room in the basement, another kid moved downstairs, office moved to upstairs bedroom and I get a fish room! Timing worked well!

I can't help with the 180 but I'm sure it will be fine. Having the tank sit on my floor for 2 weeks was torture, can't imagine waiting longer!! Do you have a tank going now?

i have 2 going my 90g which will be replaced by the 180. and the inspiration to this build my 50g for our daycare kids. i want this to be as clean if not cleaner looking with no visible powerheads or filtration. in the main display. thats what makes this diy difficult.

Coralgurl

01-28-2012, 05:55 AM

I just checked out your 50 and wow, its amazing! Very inspiring! Can't wait to see your 180 going!

lockrookie

01-28-2012, 06:14 AM

I just checked out your 50 and wow, its amazing! Very inspiring! Can't wait to see your 180 going!

thank you it took alot of sleepless nights and thought now imhaving deja vue. lol

thats whats great about this hobby tho everyones vision is unique and every tank is an art piece never to be duplicated.. living art. with afew extra gray hairs.

lockrookie

01-29-2012, 02:21 AM

water tested sump and so far so good no leaks

as well my lights showed up from -=james=- and looks good thanks again james

now drain the tank and start building baffles

Coralgurl

01-29-2012, 03:57 AM

Nice work!

Nano

01-29-2012, 03:59 AM

YES! Its about time!! I'm so gllad to see your making some progress on this bad boy

lockrookie

01-29-2012, 04:16 AM

thanks guys

you say progress i say spending money.. i cant complain i got a good deal on the lights and quite happy with them. just have to figure out where to put the ballasts didnt realise how huge they would be lol. have to plan a shelf in the stand somehow.

i hope to have room by the end of feb to bring the tank inside and tear it apart to fix it then the fun will begin

lockrookie

01-30-2012, 03:08 AM

so found two cracks in my sump tank today.....

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/tankcrack.jpg

bignose

01-30-2012, 03:20 AM

lol!! Thanks for my laugh of the day.

Coralgurl

01-30-2012, 03:26 AM

Sweetness!! That's priceless!

Borderjumper

01-30-2012, 03:27 AM

Ha ha!! Too cute! I hear they multiply almost as fast as aptasia.. So beware:mrgreen:

Nano

01-30-2012, 03:28 AM

HAHAHA too cute

lockrookie

01-30-2012, 03:36 AM

hehe was wifes idea as long as they dont leak i should be ok..

lockrookie

02-02-2012, 05:26 AM

im torn if i should do a refugium or not in my sump or outside of sump. or to even bother at all i know its helpedmy 50... decitions decitions

lockrookie

02-05-2012, 11:01 PM

so i finished my recycled aquarium sump project using 3 33g tanks and 1 10g tank i had laying around. i still have to drill for the auto top off but will do that after all is running to get the perfect height. as well drill the overflow drain holes all in all i think it turned out alright will do a water test later tonight and then pack it all away untill read for set up. i also added the trim on top to ruduce getting sliced.

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/101_6564.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/101_6567.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/101_6574.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/101_6578.jpg

Coralgurl

02-05-2012, 11:16 PM

Nicely done!! Fuge in tank was a good decision!!

Reef Pilot

02-05-2012, 11:52 PM

i also added the trim on top to ruduce getting sliced.

Where did you get your trim from?

lockrookie

02-05-2012, 11:56 PM

from the 33g tanks i took apart to make the sump i didnt wreck them and spliced them together.

lockrookie

02-06-2012, 05:07 AM

leak test complete i can sleep a bit better tonight lol ok i lie.

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/101_6582.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/101_6588.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/101_6587.jpg

lockrookie

02-06-2012, 05:08 AM

next project tear apart and rebuild the 180

lockrookie

02-12-2012, 05:09 AM

i had to do it i had to try out my new halide light fixture on the 90 and in glad i did. the 2 70w halides are very cool i like the color from them so much that i left them on longer tonight just to day dream what they will look like on the 180. yes i need to get out more.

regretfully im not entirely fond of the color of the 150w bulbs they seem a bit yellow they say 15k on them but im unsure if its my eyes playing tricks or the algea floating in the water lol. (i have to work on that issue) so i ordered some 20k bulbs from ebay and we will see how it goes. over all i love the fixture but i may have to add some t5's to the mix just to be sure there are no dead spots in the lighting. will take pics so i have a comparison when the new bulbs arrive.

scubadawg

02-12-2012, 05:37 AM

so if i did euro brace im thinking i wont need bracing where the overflow is due to the overflow in itselfis some what bracing the tank.. i could be wrong in this so your ideas are welcomed

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/180gglassonlywitheuro.jpg

If your replacing the large sheet of glass, then have a look at this thread.
http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=66389

I am having Neil notch the glass of my tank, and putting black acrylic inside and building an outside coast to coast overflow box. I will be doing an beananimal overflow. This way you don't lose any space in the aquarium, and you have a super quiet overflow

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DFoSXMRgnDA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTFV7LYH15M&feature=related

I'm doing my first reef tank, 187 gallon with a 75 gallon sump.

lockrookie

02-12-2012, 06:06 AM

If your replacing the large sheet of glass, then have a look at this thread.
http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=66389

I am having Neil notch the glass of my tank, and putting black acrylic inside and building an outside coast to coast overflow box. I will be doing an beananimal overflow. This way you don't lose any space in the aquarium, and you have a super quiet overflow

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DFoSXMRgnDA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTFV7LYH15M&feature=related

I'm doing my first reef tank, 187 gallon with a 75 gallon sump.

i would love to have an external overflow it would make my life so much easier but in my case the tank has to sit up against the wall so all plumbing must be internal on this tank. i am going the eurobrace way. with a notch near the overflow for easier access to it if needed. as far as losing space if i do this right you wont even notice the space is lost it will just look like a planned rock sculpture:)

i wish i had artistic skill to put whats in my brain on paper but im not that special

good luck with your build i will be watching it. for me its the build thats exciting.. i will check out your links as well thanks for offering. if you want an interesting read check out my 50g build thread in my signature and you will see a glimps to the dirction i am taking.

lockrookie

02-16-2012, 11:38 PM

well my ebay bulbs arrived today and i switched out the 15k for the 20k bulbs and now im happy with the color and cant wait to see the lights over the 180....

on that note i hate glass companies in regina no one wants to cut my eurobracing or i should say thier supliers dont want to cut my bracing. so now i have contemplate the next step..

lockrookie

02-21-2012, 10:34 PM

so ive priced out glass at a fewplaces and as someone suggested glacier glass....well no...
prices ive gotten from a couple other places just for main 23 1/2 x 72 where 195.00 and 175.00. for the 3" by 72 was 33.00 and 25.00 per piece

now glaciers cost 463.00 for the 23 1\2 x 72 and 400.00 for the 3" x 72 all made from 1/2 glass

i think glacier is out of the running lol so.. moral of the story dontbuy glass from glacier lol

Coralgurl

02-22-2012, 01:22 AM

That's a huge price difference! Hope you told them where to go! :mrgreen:

lockrookie

02-22-2012, 02:29 AM

oh yes i showed them my other quotes and said told them they are on drugs too huge of a difference hell at that cost i woulda just bought a custom tank lol

The Grizz

02-22-2012, 02:51 AM

I could probably get the euro brace stripes cut here for you & send them on the hound to you.

lockrookie

02-22-2012, 03:10 AM

I could probably get the euro brace stripes cut here for you & send them on the hound to you.

wow amazing offer greg thank you if i end up with no luck here i may take you up on that. its so frustrating knowing its been done but when you live in a crap city like regina our ppl know nothing lol. my wife says that you have to send a puppy as well lol. ive been showing her all this pics .. my first mistake.

The Grizz

02-22-2012, 03:21 AM

If I can get a tank & euro strips up to Yellowknife I am sure I can get euro's to you but I don't think a pup would be to happy getting stuffed in the box to :lol:

lockrookie

02-22-2012, 03:31 AM

she says put holes in the box.. my wife is a huge dog lover and would love to have a full set of labs a great dane and wellone of everything. i have a couple more places to try in town. before i givee up here in mud hole sask. the only piece's i need are the 2 72" lengths. the tank already has the 2 end ones i can trim to fit.

jorjef

02-22-2012, 03:36 AM

wow amazing offer greg thank you if i end up with no luck here i may take you up on that. its so frustrating knowing its been done but when you live in a crap city like regina our ppl know nothing lol. my wife says that you have to send a puppy as well lol. ive been showing her all this pics .. my first mistake.

Am I missing something? the braces can be cut for either $25.00 or $33.00 right? Don't trash the city, so not cool.

lockrookie

02-22-2012, 03:44 AM

Am I missing something? the braces can be cut for either $25.00 or $33.00 right? Don't trash the city, so not cool.

yes thats what i was quoted but then they turn around and say thier supplier refuses to cut the braces due to the thickness of glass. thus saying yes this is the cost tease tease but you cant have it. sucker.. its really frustrating. i can get the big sheet no problem.. but noone wants to cut the bracing.

yet tanks are being built with thinner glass as filler. and tank builders seem to be able to do it

jorjef

02-22-2012, 03:49 AM

yes thats what i was quoted but then they turn around and say thier supplier refuses to cut the braces due to the thickness of glass. thus saying yes this is the cost tease tease but you cant have it. sucker.. its really frustrating. i can get the big sheet no problem.. but noone wants to cut the bracing.

yet tanks are being built with thinner glass as filler. and tank builders seem to be able to do it

Did you ask them for 3/8"

lockrookie

02-22-2012, 03:50 AM

12mm aka 1/2" whats there now

jorjef

02-22-2012, 03:59 AM

12mm aka 1/2" whats there now

What a 72" brace, the tank glass, or the little pcs. of Euro on the ends of the tank? regardless of your answer 3/8 would solve your problem if they will cut it.

The Grizz

02-22-2012, 04:01 AM

she says put holes in the box.. my wife is a huge dog lover

If I wasn't so busy I would drive out there with a K9 :biggrin:

lockrookie

02-22-2012, 04:04 AM

ensquire

02-22-2012, 04:04 AM

If I can get a tank & euro strips up to Yellowknife I am sure I can get euro's to you but I don't think a pup would be to happy getting stuffed in the box to :lol:

I'll vouch for his crate making abilities and expediting skills.:thumb:

jorjef

02-22-2012, 04:09 AM

the brace is a piece of glass 3" or 4" whide 1/2 thick 72" long siliconed length wise along the topof tank to suport the tank for flex so it doentpop under pressure rather than a brace across the tank in the middle that hinders getting to tank and working inside the tank. i can show you what i mean tomorrow if you like. i already have teh two short pieces just need the long ones

Ya I know that, i was asking what was 1/2"...... the tank, the end euro pcs. or the 72" euro (that was the smart ass part of the question I know there wasn't a 72" brace on the tank) Why won't 3/8 glass work?

lockrookie

02-22-2012, 04:12 AM

If I wasn't so busy I would drive out there with a K9 :biggrin:

its ok lol our lab would have issues with us bringing home another pup he still blames us for bringing home our sheppard collie cross.. giving us the look ever so often saying "she is so stupid what where you thinking". a very opinionated dog. he is 11 now and to intruduce a hyper pup he would hate us forever.

I'll vouch for his crate making abilities and expediting skills.:thumb:

i have been following your build and was very impressed with the crate

lockrookie

02-22-2012, 04:15 AM

Ya I know that, i was asking what was 1/2"...... the tank, the end euro pcs. or the 72" euro (that was the smart ass part of the question I know there wasn't a 72" brace on the tank) Why won't 3/8 glass work?

two thin and would crack under pressure in reality i should use 5/8 for piece of mind but 1/2 should do the trick.

jorjef

02-22-2012, 04:19 AM

two thin and would crack under pressure in reality i should use 5/8 for piece of mind but 1/2 should do the trick.

Tell Pam I want to know why she hasn't suffocated you with a pillow yet! lol:lol: Later.

lockrookie

02-22-2012, 04:22 AM

some days she would like to but i remind her this ugrade was her idea.....

lockrookie

02-27-2012, 01:52 PM

it is official i cannot get euro bracing in regina... i will be ordering the front pane and deciding the bracing later.

lockrookie

02-27-2012, 03:21 PM

i swear it has to be a monday .. kruse glass called back. and they found a supplier that will do it. omg im in a great mood now lol

FINALLY !!! i can start this build. glass will be here around march 12

:bananahuge:

ensquire

02-27-2012, 06:01 PM

Right on , Sucks having to wait for parts or equipment that isn't available locally.
Watching this one.

lockrookie

02-27-2012, 07:16 PM

Right on , Sucks having to wait for parts or equipment that isn't available locally.
Watching this one.

stalker..lol

yes it is rough next order is for my bulkheads and drill bits now that ive decided what i want and how i want it. and more dry rock for the rockwalls. as well as my 2 powerheads for flow to build into the rockwork. its going to be fun

Coralgurl

02-27-2012, 08:04 PM

It's a great day! Can't wait to see what you've come up with for this one!

lockrookie

02-27-2012, 08:28 PM

It's a great day! Can't wait to see what you've come up with for this one!

neither can i. i still havent told myself all i need to know. leaving myself in the dark adds to the excitement. hehe. i see it doesnt mean its going to work as my brain envisions it. there will be changes on the fly.

Coralgurl

02-27-2012, 08:39 PM

Ohhh the excitement must be killing you now that you know you can get going! Hope you don't have too much time to over think, sometimes that can be just as bad!!

lockrookie

02-27-2012, 09:27 PM

it is killing me. but there is alot of work to be done too over thinking gives me all possible senarios lol. in the end it will get done one step at a time. and since ive done some of it before it will go easier this time.

lockrookie

03-07-2012, 12:10 AM

well nothing new at this time other than i have purchased a refuge light. drill bits and powerheads are on route. still usure of the dry rock needed for rock walls but i still have time for that. glass should be here on the 12th. so hopefuly tomorrow or thursday i will get the tank in the house, one way or another, to take it apart and have it cleaned and ready for the glass to install right away. less chance ill break it this way maybe.... there is always issues with drilling lol. this weekend once i have the room inthe garage i will also pick up some lumber so when it warms up i can build the stand as well.

for now that is all

Coralgurl

03-07-2012, 01:30 AM

What are going to use for powerheads? I've got 1 mp 40 and I think I need another. If I don't keep the 55 going, will use the koralias as well.

lockrookie

03-07-2012, 02:05 AM

right now im running a koralia 3 and 2 on my 90 and will be using those as well as 2new koralia evolution 1050's and later will purchase 2 more 1050's in the future plus the flow of the return line i hope to be enough. my pump hiding spots (if it works out as i envision) will be made to house bigger koralia's as well just in case.

now i know alot of ppl like mp 40's and tunze powerheads. i kinda like my koralias i havent had one issue with them and they have been running non stop for 3 years. i do like the control ability of these high end pumps but they break too and cost 10 times more. what can i say im a cheap basterd, id rather save the money for something purdy rather than an underwater fan. but most of all these will work better for placement in my application. each pump will be offset a bit to push the water in different directions. but essentially once in place will not be moved ever wich is a bit of a downside. im willing to takethe risk if i dont have to see them

Coralgurl

03-07-2012, 03:43 AM

Ya, your set up will be a lot different, but it's worked for you before. The 40 is great but i need more flow on the other side of the tank. I don't think it's about being cheap, if it works, it works!

lockrookie

03-07-2012, 03:48 AM

if your not using them in your other tank throw them in until you get the powerhead you want.. no need to get one right away but i think 2 mp40 would do well in your tank. you can always have your koralia's hang off your overflow boxes lower in the tank pointing up in behind the rock as well as to not have them as noticeable even point one at the rock it will keep soot off the rocks.

Coralgurl

03-07-2012, 04:01 AM

lockrookie

03-07-2012, 04:17 AM

I will throw them on, but need extension cords...the cords won't reach to the other side of tank where power bars are. Need one on each side of tank, was trying to keep everything together, not going to work. Always modifying...lol

that is what makes it a fun hobby. i think everyone tinkers andchanges its all good my issue is i cant really change afte ive done this it willbe what it will be and ill have to get over it lol

lockrookie

03-07-2012, 11:23 PM

my father is a brave man and helped me move the tank in the house today..yeah! i rented an appliance mover which prolly made things worse in hindsight but it gt the job done. i may or may not have pulled a muscle in my back but as they say no pain no gain. it wont be the last time this tank draws blood and cripples me. that is a guarontee :)

i will post pics later with it beside my 90 just for memory sake and comparisons.

lockrookie

03-08-2012, 03:05 AM

ok just a couple comparison shots of the old tank and future tank :) trim removed off the top already. back in great pain at the moment. last picture is of the immence crack that got me the tank dirt cheap. and the cause for this fun build to come. please dont mind the getto light stands. my 60" hood wont fit with my 72" fixture.

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/103_6600.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/103_6601.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/103_6602.jpg

lockrookie

03-09-2012, 03:54 AM

so i made a really bad assumption on ordering my glass that will be here monday.... i assume'd that like most tanks i have taken apart that the front pane sat all the way down with the bottom glass butted up against.. well after taking the trim off tonight guess what i was wrong. the glass sits on top of the bottom pane.. which means the glass i ordered will be 1/2 too tall for the tank..lol oops.. better too log than too short right.... its all good tho i will just butt up the eurobracing to the oversized pane it will work the same and attach the bracing as normal everywhere else. like i said better longer than shorter hehe...

moral of the store... never assume it makes an arse of um me and be sure to measure not just once but properly. that is all for today. will let youknwo what mishap tomorro brings

The Grizz

03-09-2012, 04:46 AM

Doesn't that just chap your arse when you make a mistake like that :frusty:

lockrookie

03-09-2012, 04:56 AM

Doesn't that just chap your arse when you make a mistake like that :frusty:

yeah at first i was like crap now what but since the eurbrace is also 1/2 glass it should work out really well. its not like it will be noticeable once the hood is on anyways...ill just pretend it was planned that way to give the front a rimless look like i've seen others do on other builds via google. when i say custom 180 build thats due to the screw ups imake that make it unique lol

Skimmerking

03-09-2012, 03:28 PM

yeah at first i was like crap now what but since the eurbrace is also 1/2 glass it should work out really well. its not like it will be noticeable once the hood is on anyways...ill just pretend it was planned that way to give the front a rimless look like i've seen others do on other builds via google. when i say custom 180 build thats due to the screw ups imake that make it unique lol
Dont worry Jeff I will keep bringing it up all the time to keep remindering you of the mistake that you have made..........:wink:

fishytime

03-09-2012, 03:33 PM

I think I see your clownfish flipping you the middle fin in that second picture for teasing him by putting that big tank right there in plain view:mrgreen:

lockrookie

03-09-2012, 04:03 PM

Dont worry Jeff I will keep bringing it up all the time to keep remindering you of the mistake that you have made..........:wink:

thanks mike i knew i could count on you lol

I think I see your clownfish flipping you the middle fin in that second picture for teasing him by putting that big tank right there in plain view:mrgreen:

those clowns are evil thus i dont doubt it they are flippin the fin. the little buggers dont deserve a new home maybe ill just leave them in the sump. lol

tank was only there for an hour to waarm up from bieng in the garage.. i almost have it apart already for the new glass on monday i just have to go pick up a couple packages of silicone tomorrow. as well as a cut off blade to trim a couple glass pieces for the overflow and euro brace. you thing 1/2 inch glss is toomuch for oerflow box lol. i have 6 mill i may use i my turn the broken pane into a couple glass shelves on each side of the tank for aclimating and stuff

lockrookie

03-13-2012, 03:05 AM

glass has arrived but not unwrapped as of yet i have to finish preping the replacement area as well as remove all the old silicone to reseal the whole tank. but over the weekend my skimmer on my 90 puked and ive been fighting with that to get it all sorted out. i forsee a new skimmer in my future..... or a controller to shut it down before it pukes.

lockrookie

03-14-2012, 08:42 AM

so new glass is in place tank re sealed. i may have to tear it apart and re seal it again due tom y stupidity. previous to doing this i had purchased 6 tubes of silicone.. but failed to check if it was clear and brought home white.. so while i was sealing it i had to run and get more. i did get back beforee it set but didnt have time to take the tape off and had to cut it off half wet half dry. it seems ok messy in areas but ill know in 24 hours if i have to have a do over weekend. anyways i took pics of the process i may as well post them.

euro brace isnt attached yet untili know all is good as well the back brace cannot be installed until i decide on the overflow size/drill bits arrive from hong kong. and my order from brs

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/103_6603.jpg

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/103_6604.jpg

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/103_6605.jpg

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/103_6606.jpg

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/103_6607.jpg

gregzz4

03-14-2012, 09:56 AM

lockrookie

03-14-2012, 05:50 PM

So, starting over?
Sounds like me with my sump. I've run it through my mind for the last month and a half, and I think I finally like it.
I had to smash my baffles/bubble trap and re-do what I thought was a beautiful sillycone job. I had taped everything and it looked pro.
Now, after re-doing it with the layout I decided on, it looks like someone's Kindergarten class did it for me. I couldn't get the gun in there, and did not have any 300ml tubes on hand. I had to run all the inside seams by applying small beads with my finger tip.
How do these builders make these custom tanks look so nice ?
I even tried to tape things off, but you can't remove the tape from those little places.
AAACCCKKKKK

i checked the tank this morning and it seems to actually have sealed quite nicely the questionable areas are just messy and not as tidy as i hoped to be but i can live with that since they will be under the sand bed

but i did recieve my glass hole saws today so i know what ill be doing this weekend...building my overflow drilling holes finishing eurobrace install. ill have it all water tested by next week just in time to set it aside and get ready for the inlaws to come visit for a month. dont get me wrong i will be doing stuff durring that month once the overflow is built i can then begin my rockwalls and flow hiders :) most of that can built without the tank laying flat.

lockrookie

03-16-2012, 07:12 AM

the part of this project that scares the #$%& outta me but it has to be done for this to work.. notching the eurobrace for access to the overflow. i am only notching out 2" of the 4" brace.by 20" long .the overflow is going tobe 18" x 5". 1/2" of that will be sitting on the glass to leave me with a total opening area of 3 1/2" not alot of room but enough if the need arises.

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/103_6609.jpg

*disclaimer*

i am not a glass expert nor do i claim to know what im doing this is more of an experiment due to need, i do not have the tools to polish and make it look pretty and sparkly when finished (if it works and doesn't break). so if your expecting something sparkly from this diy'r im sorry im not worthy. if i have the time and can rent the tools later i may try to spit polish the glass later all in all it will be under a hood in the end and i dont care how purdy it is. now pray for me that it works. i really dont want to buy another piece of glass

fishytime

03-16-2012, 01:17 PM

May the force be with you:mrgreen:

lockrookie

03-16-2012, 04:25 PM

thanks fishytime iwill need the force and a stiffdrink to calm my nerves. lol like i say if it breaks ill just go to plan b and make the overflow out of heavier glass to support the back wall. always have a plan b

Coralgurl

03-16-2012, 05:09 PM

Sending good vibes your way that all will go as planned!!!

lockrookie

03-16-2012, 05:56 PM

we will see if i get time this afternon i may give it a try... or ill chicken out and wait until tomorrow... my bulkheads should arrive today as well as my 2 koralia powerheads. i hope to clean an area in the garage as well so i can start on the stand.

Skimmerking

03-16-2012, 06:17 PM

no one like a quitter go for a Jeff

lockrookie

03-16-2012, 08:36 PM

no one like a quitter go for a Jeff

not gonna quit just needs some liquid encouragment. cant do that til dayare kids leave

lockrookie

03-16-2012, 09:53 PM

soooooooooooo i braved it. and this is my result

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/104_0001.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/104_0002.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/104_0004.jpg

cuz

03-16-2012, 10:03 PM

Not to shabby!!!!!!!! Nice work!!!

Did you cut or score from hole to hole?

lockrookie

03-16-2012, 10:07 PM

cut with an angle grinder with a diamond blade the whole process took 15 min to do it all was actually really easy. a little chiping from the diamond blade but all in all im happy

lockrookie

03-18-2012, 05:02 AM

here we go again another boring set of pictures of my progress.. i drilled the bottom of the tank minimal chipping (impressed with myself) and attached the rest of the eurobracing the two small end pieces are from the tank just trimmed to size thus why they are smaller than the new bracing..

im undecided if im going to use my 5 mil glass for the overflow or if i should cut up the old 1/2 glass for extra stability. i think 5 mil is too thin and im getting good at cutting the glass so why not build this thing like a tank (pun intended).

anywho here is where the tank is at this time. just movin along

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/105_6616.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/105_6617.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/105_6618.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/105_6619.jpg

gregzz4

03-19-2012, 07:54 PM

Nicely done

lockrookie

03-19-2012, 09:14 PM

Nicely done

thanks im quite happy with it thus far. but i need to buy a new diamond blade regretfully for my angle grinder tried to cut the overflow pieces and failed. chipped.. bady but if i have to i can still use them overflow will be coverd with black acrilic anyways. but today i feel like crap so im holding off

i was just hopeing to do a water test before i had to set it aside for a month... but my colld is kickin my butt atm

gregzz4

03-19-2012, 09:25 PM

Coralgurl

03-19-2012, 11:06 PM

Great work, happy that the cutting has worked out for you! Hope you feel better soon!!

lockrookie

03-19-2012, 11:31 PM

Pam ... PAM ... can you call my Mom? :mrgreen:

I know how you feel about getting some testing done.
I'm moving onto my 3rd sump design. The silicone curing time is killing me. Plus I have to re-fill the DT and sump everytime.

ironicly thats my wifes name but id never ask her to call my mom...ever..

why keep refilling dt just empty sump do changes refill infact you can empty into a pail and reuse water.

all the water i am using to water test ill be setting into buckets after the fact for reuse... whether it be for top ups water changes or just watering plants i refuse to just dump all of it.

lockrookie

03-20-2012, 12:05 AM

Great work, happy that the cutting has worked out for you! Hope you feel better soon!!

thanks it definately a start.. no matter what happens tomorrow i will have the over flow sealed so i can make the acrilic comb around it. i must have this done before friday. to get the room ready for the inlaws.

lockrookie

03-22-2012, 05:15 AM

well im happy to say my career in glass mfg is at an end and i am now into acrylic mfg of the overflow comb. i had a bit of a mishap with cutting the overflow box which delayed me a bit the side pieces chipped up to crap the first time i cut them with my cut off blade. it seemed to have gotten dull. so i bought a new one and had success the second time around. all n all im happy with the turn out. even though i added more wieght to the tank than it i had originally. i will never have to fear the overflow breaking or cracking any time soon lol. but the broken front pane came in handy.

here are a couple pictures for now. hopefully on friday i can do a water test and sleep easy knowing i wont have to reseal anything before i put on the overflow comb

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/105_6621.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/105_6622.jpg

gregzz4

03-22-2012, 05:48 AM

ironicly thats my wifes name but id never ask her to call my mom...ever..
That's my reminder for all of us MEN when we are sick.
SUCK IT UP

Anyway, I always found that add very funny.

gregzz4

03-22-2012, 05:56 AM

lockrookie

03-22-2012, 06:22 AM

You're worried about inlaws coming in the next few days?
Try worrying about whether or not you will sleep. ,,,
I wish you the best time while they are with you, but leave you with my problem ...
No matter how hard I try, I can't seem to get more than 3-4 hours sleep/night over 2-3 days. Then I sleep for 10-12 hours.
I have tried setting the alarm to break the cycle but it's still hard.
Anyway, after having less than 6 hours sleep over the last 2 nights, I'm hoping that the beers will add to my ..... OK .... I'm tired now .... time .. to .. go to bed without food .... turn TV off OMG I am SOOO tired

If I come back here tomorrow morning, it will be a record staying awake problem

YYYyyaaaawwwwwnnnnnnnnnn
gnight Irene

Not worried about inlaws we generally have a good visit. Just worried that the tank is taking up the guest room to which they will reside for a month. I need to finish it to move it out of the room. And work on the stand while they are out that I can do in the garage after I clean it out a bit. And work on the rock walls and structures. If all goes well tank will be running end of June.beginnng of July.

I can hope

gregzz4

03-22-2012, 08:37 PM

why keep refilling dt just empty sump do changes refill infact you can empty into a pail and reuse water
I missed this part.
I empty the DT 'cause it gets slimy/murky.
I'm going to use tapwater again for the next test and then the system will sit empty until my rock finishes curing.

lockrookie

03-23-2012, 03:48 AM

its 10:00 at night and what do i decide to do..... a water test prolly not mybest idea in case of major leakage but my weekend is busy. here's hopeing

lockrookie

03-23-2012, 04:56 AM

leak test complete... we have sucess

Coralgurl

03-23-2012, 05:24 AM

Put the inlaws to work helping with the build while they are there!! Extra hands can't hurt! Glad the tank didn't leak, that would have sucked before bed..

lockrookie

03-23-2012, 05:32 AM

Put the inlaws to work helping with the build while they are there!! Extra hands can't hurt! Glad the tank didn't leak, that would have sucked before bed..

no worries the plan is to have them help me move the 90 into the kitchen the day before they leave. so that i can fix up the wall for the new tank and run some hosing and wireing. this tank will have a dedicated line ..no more blowing breakers.

i didnt get much sleep last night worring about my sealing job so i had to try it. now im trying to find pails to store teh water i filled it with for water changes .. waste not want not.

wife was more worried about it falling through the floor that i found funny

fishytime

03-23-2012, 05:33 AM

Not worried about inlaws we generally have a good visit. Just worried that the tank is taking up the guest room to which they will reside for a month. I need to finish it to move it out of the room. And work on the stand while they are out that I can do in the garage after I clean it out a bit. And work on the rock walls and structures. If all goes well tank will be running end of June.beginnng of July.

I can hope

Inlaws for as month????....thats not a visit, thats an invasion:mrgreen:

lockrookie

03-23-2012, 05:41 AM

Inlaws for as month????....thats not a visit, thats an invasion:mrgreen:

my wife is from lawn guyland NY. born and raised. her parents only usually get to spend a week or two at most when they visit. and since the birth of the twins and now her parent are retired. they can stay longer which is ook by me i get along well with them the rum usually never stops pouring. and her moms a good cook it will be nice to have the extra hands around the house ill be spoiled

lockrookie

03-25-2012, 07:20 AM

so.... the tank part of the build is complete added the overflow comb tonight or this morning depending on how you look at it. i had to hand notch the comb i couldnt find a pat for my dremel.. but all in all i think it worked out quite well. what do you all think...this is the most repair/ rebuild/ diy i have ever done with a fish tank since i have been keeping fish when i was 19 (freshwater in the begining). any who pics of the overflow and complete tank.

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/105_6626-Copy.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/105_6625.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/105_6628.jpg

yes i added my initials for the fun of it..lol
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/105_6629.jpg

tank complete waiting fro a stand and rock work
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/105_6630.jpg

The Grizz

03-25-2012, 07:35 AM

Tank looks great dude!!

lockrookie

03-25-2012, 04:47 PM

Tank looks great dude!!

thanks greg

ensquire

03-26-2012, 02:46 AM

Good job on the overflow, very neat

lockrookie

03-26-2012, 04:27 AM

Good job on the overflow, very neat

thank you i had leftover black acrilic from the 50 and it was just enough to do the job... i think i had a strip about 1 inch wide by 20" long left over

fishoholic

03-26-2012, 02:07 PM

thank you i had leftover black acrilic from the 50 and it was just enough to do the job... i think i had a strip about 1 inch wide by 20" long left over

Awesome! Got to love it when things work out like that :biggrin:

lockrookie

03-26-2012, 04:40 PM

Awesome! Got to love it when things work out like that :biggrin:

i know things just came together nice for the overflow concidering the glass i used for it was the original main brace that went across the tank tha i had removed then shortented for height and the sides where cut out of the original main pane that was cracked. i was origianlly going to use the 5 mil glass for the overflow but decided last minute that it was a bad idea and the 1/2 would add to the strength.

after discussing with my father my power issues. meaning i really wanted to put the tankon its own breaker i will be running (hopefully) a 3 wire line to the inside of the tank to but the tank on 2 diferent breakers one fro half the lights and pumps one for the other half so if one fails hopefully the other continues incase of accidental trip (for example my old t5 lights got moisture in them and blew the breaker constantly) i still have to figue out how im goingt to get the wire from point a to point b with a my finished basement as well as my ato top off line and a wire to my homes alarm panel for a water bug. i will be using my home alarm system as a warning controller for certian issues with the tank since it is a monitored system.

lockrookie

04-02-2012, 05:44 AM

sorry posted wrong thread

gregzz4

04-02-2012, 07:55 AM

sorry posted wrong thread
And here I thought it was me missing something as I was reading through my e-mail and trying to figure out what the difference was between the 2 :doh:

lockrookie

04-02-2012, 04:55 PM

about 130g difference between the 2 lol

lockrookie

04-09-2012, 05:47 AM

since i havent posted in a bit i thought id give a bit of a verbal update tank still sit beside the 90 no stand started.. i hope to rectify that soon. but work has been slow. anywho i have started the rock wall but have so predesign inhibitions. i keep looking at it unsure if its going to work or not. ultimately what i need to do is a water test of the plumbing before i continue to ease my mind but having a difficult time finding some plumbing parts i need. the whole idea of the rockwall it to make it not just a wall per say (rocks stuck on a wall) but a natural flow of edges shape and dimention. and right now i just dont feel creative..i really need to get out of this creative slump.. so thats where im at in stead of writters block i have reefers block.. purchased a few little things here and there mostly supplies...see what happens this week

lockrookie

04-12-2012, 05:00 AM

to make it simple a few pics of plumbing and rockwall framing for the overflow area... just have to start adding rock and foam...

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/100_6644.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/100_6641.jpg

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/100_6631.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/100_6632.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/100_6633.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/100_6634.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/100_6646.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/100_6647.jpg

Coralgurl

04-12-2012, 06:05 AM

Ohhhhhhhh the anticipation!! I can't wait to see how this comes together..have you picked up the rock yet??

lockrookie

04-12-2012, 06:12 AM

yes i have 77lbs of dry rock waiting for me to take a hammer to it. as wel as some other 50lbs of wet dry rock(dont ask) armed with zip ties and two cans of great stuff foam.. and two cans of resin and a couple bags of white and brown substrate to mix into it for texture. the overflow wall has to be built in two parts in order for me to hide the eggcrate and my support beams. i will take pics of all that before i start. i hope it works and i dont hate it.. or worse the wife hates it

gregzz4

04-12-2012, 01:46 PM

Are those rectangular holes for return or closed loop nozzles?

lockrookie

04-12-2012, 02:08 PM

Are those rectangular holes for return or closed loop nozzles?

Those are for powerheads

Sent from nowhere in particular

gregzz4

04-12-2012, 03:32 PM

Cool

lockrookie

04-18-2012, 07:26 AM

well i wasn't going to post these but what the heck they will be eventually im unsure about my powerhead ports at this time will see how it progresses... but for now centre overflow wall is 50 precent complete i have to epoxy and sand/seal it before i continue with the frontal rockwork/cave. i knowi know it looks like a blob of yellow. i can only hope for the best lol

here are the pics

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/100_6648.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/100_6649.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/100_6650.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/100_6651.jpg

gregzz4

04-18-2012, 08:50 PM

Well, it may look like a blob to you, but I'd say you're moving along nicely

Nano

04-18-2012, 09:11 PM

are you going to coat the foam with some quickcrete or something? looks great BTW

lockrookie

04-18-2012, 10:00 PM

Well, it may look like a blob to you, but I'd say you're moving along nicely

I'm calling it sponge bob ATM.. And yes it is slowly coming along only 2 more rock walls to build stand / trim/ hood/ under the stand plumbing.. Wiring...ato plumbing moving The 90
THen pray the floor can handle the weight aqua sculpturing and finally the water switch over from 90 to reduce cycle...

I cringe to what all has to be done lol

Sent from nowhere in particular

lockrookie

04-18-2012, 10:04 PM

are you going to coat the foam with some quickcrete or something? looks great BTW

The foam is coated with epoxy resin and dusted with sand and repeat 3 or 4 times for hardness and to cover all yellow areas basically sealing the foam I do the sand treatment on front side and just resin on backside just for added measures. Hen after a year it all blends in together and you can't tell that its a diy project especially when corals grow in. Semi natural lol

Sent from nowhere in particular

lockrookie

04-22-2012, 07:58 AM

rock wall got its first tan job 3 more coats to go then i can finish this part and move to the next two smaller walls. still undecided on return pump for this tank the new quietone 6000 or the eheim compact 5000 both are comparible but some say the eheim doesnt have the flow its suposed to have so i ama little nervous about it

anywho.. pics of the rockwall inits present state

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/100_6653.jpg

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/100_6652.jpg

gregzz4

04-22-2012, 11:22 PM

Yup, that's lookin' cool

With what I've read online, I'd go with an Eheim over a Quite One for noise and lifespan. I only own a Q-O 1200 but still find it sometimes hard to start.
Maybe you could get the next size up and tee in a T-U Ball Valve for blowby if it's too much flow? I did this with one of mine so as not to stress the pump. It works so well I haven't used the Gate Valve yet.

http://i749.photobucket.com/albums/xx136/Gregzz4/75%20Gallon%20Build/Pumps.jpg

lockrookie

04-22-2012, 11:32 PM

ive been using the quiet ones for 3 years and have no issues with them yet my skimmer makes more noise than the QO pump my main issue is the flow i have read a few ppl dissapointed with the ehiem not pushing as much flow as its rated and that 1262 does more performance(but isnt large enough for my needs)... i dont want flow envy

gregzz4

04-23-2012, 01:05 AM

lockrookie

04-23-2012, 02:17 AM

Don't get me wrong. As I say, my only QO experience is a 1200 for transfers. And I wasn't recommending a 1262 :smile: I don't know how your plumbing is set up.
If you're happy with the QO line why not go with the 6000 then ? J&L has them on sale right now :boink:

What about the oversize idea and tee it off ?

I know you where not recommending my friend that is just what I've read in different forums I am leaning more towards the new QO on the basis that they are in sale right now. Most likely order one tonight. Cause this week I am going to go buy some solid maple and a couple sheets of maple for the stand and start building.

Sent from a pineapple under the sea...

gregzz4

04-23-2012, 02:33 AM

Wish I could give you some helpful input

lockrookie

04-23-2012, 03:25 AM

its all good i have al the information i need from flow rates to wattage i just have to bite the bullet and commit. other than the stand and a few extra things here and there im getting close to getting salty. maybe end of june maybe before.

lockrookie

04-23-2012, 07:12 AM

there is no going back ordered the quiet one 6000.. if i dont like it it will have to suffice until i can do something else.tomorrow today monday whatever comes first is going to be purchase hardwood day i got an in to get what i need wholesale. so tonight i plan my cuts to see what i need to pick up as to not over stay this offer... i just hope they have some great raw maple for me to play with. been awhile since i have played with the planer and shaper.

gregzz4

04-23-2012, 07:20 AM

Sometimes ya just have to pull the trigger, otherwise you'll look and look and get nothing done. It's a hellofa pump for the price.
Have fun with the wood

lockrookie

04-23-2012, 07:33 AM

it was more stay with what i know and like or step out of my bubble and try something new.. atm my bubble is cozy.

wood is fun grew up a carpenters son just hated doing for others ppl are too damn picky... i dont like thata knot in tthe wood and the grain is off from that piece....sorry ill grow a tree and in 100 years ill fix it...so i only build things for myself atm but may have to break that rule if i decide to build ppl custom tanks/sumps on the side. im starting to enjoy this 2 much

lockrookie

05-07-2012, 08:46 AM

slowly chippin away at this had delays due to our little one got the flu.. the final peices to the rockwall have been assembled and foamed just have to wait for warm weather to complete. still no stand building yet hopefully this week. if it keeps raining then ill just start running the wires needed. we will see howthe wife deals with me putting holes in the wall.

heres a few pics for those interested
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/100_6652.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/100_6654.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/100_6656.jpg

MarkoD

05-07-2012, 12:59 PM

lockrookie

05-07-2012, 03:25 PM

build looks good.

as for building stands: use laminate, its always perfect and its waterproof

thanks for the compliment

isnt laminate made out of particle board.... thanks for the suggestion but i think hardwood wins over laminate more costly perhaps but im not building just a stand but a piece of furniture that matches the rest of our living room furniture... or close enough match to make the wife happy.

Nano

05-07-2012, 03:35 PM

thanks for the compliment

isnt laminate made out of particle board.... thanks for the suggestion but i think hardwood wins over laminate more costly perhaps but im not building just a stand but a piece of furniture that matches the rest of our living room furniture... or close enough match to make the wife happy.

I thinks I agree on that one, laminate is a sponge for moisture unless its sealed perfect along the cut edges. just seems like a headache waiting to happen to me

Nano

05-07-2012, 03:40 PM

Rock walls are coming along nicely BTW. can't wait to see it all salty :)

lockrookie

05-07-2012, 04:35 PM

I thinks I agree on that one, laminate is a sponge for moisture unless its sealed perfect along the cut edges. just seems like a headache waiting to happen to me

you can never seal it perfecty.unless you soak it in epoxy lol and my wife wont like that smell

Rock walls are coming along nicely BTW. can't wait to see it all salty :)

thanks i still have floating concerns i forsee attaching glass to the bottom of the structures again. even when its all said and done the true effect will be when the live rock is placed andi t all turns purpley grey. i will have a time period of hateing it untill that happens. i too cant wait for it to be salty its driving my batfish crazy

MarkoD

05-07-2012, 05:17 PM

lockrookie

05-07-2012, 05:35 PM

You can put plastic laminate on anything you want. I build all my stands out of plywood and 2x4 and then wrap them with the plastic laminate(same as used on most kitchen counter tops) Its basically bullet proof

Ahs I see understood... But that's ok if you are going with a solid color like white black or whatever but with wood grain it looks cheap nothing compares to natural wood grain and textures. He inside of the tank will be partly lined with formica/laminate in the sump area for an overflow backup.

Sent from a pineapple under the sea...

MarkoD

05-07-2012, 06:37 PM

Ahs I see understood... But that's ok if you are going with a solid color like white black or whatever but with wood grain it looks cheap nothing compares to natural wood grain and textures. He inside of the tank will be partly lined with formica/laminate in the sump area for an overflow backup.

Sent from a pineapple under the sea...

I'll show you a few pictures when I get home. The grain and texture is there and looks real

lockrookie

05-07-2012, 06:49 PM

I'll show you a few pictures when I get home. The grain and texture is there and looks real

That be cool and ill look into it as well may use that idea on the interior more than exterior tho.

Sent from a pineapple under the sea...

gregzz4

05-07-2012, 11:50 PM

I see Marko meant arborite
I also thought he was talking about wood laminate :smile:

Walls are looking great

lockrookie

05-08-2012, 07:44 AM

I see Marko meant arborite
I also thought he was talking about wood laminate :smile:

Walls are looking great

yeah its simular but i think its made of a different material than arborite/formica. i havent gotten to lowes yet to check anything out

think of it like laminate flooring and that will give you the best idea.

fishytime

05-08-2012, 01:31 PM

lockrookie

05-08-2012, 01:51 PM

P Lam (plastic laminate (arborite))comes in a wide range of colors and textures.....while it is somewhat water resistant, its not something I would recommend you do, if you have no experience working with it.....it requires a couple specialized tools and can be a bit of an art form getting it "right"....and at $80- $120 a sheet, you dont want to screw up to often....

+ 1 it is very dificult to deal with as well as difficult to repair of it gets chipped. as for tools that i have i have access to more tools for woodworking door making and general contracting than i can think of.... grew up a carpenters kid. in shop class everyne made stools for thier final project.. i made and elaborite oak computer desk lol.

but i agree it still makes me nervous to use such a product for a fish tank.. i forsee one of my little ones ramming somethng into it and chipping a corner never to be able to be repaired. where as wood in general can ding and you barely notice even if they use it as a chew toy lol

MarkoD

05-08-2012, 01:56 PM

here are a few examples I've made, i think the greatest benefit is that it wont peel if moisture gets on it like lacquer will.
I was just a suggestion :)
http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss232/IvankaD/stand3.jpg?t=1323629161

http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss232/IvankaD/PICT4752.jpg

http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss232/IvankaD/Screenshot2011-07-16at104231AM.png

http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss232/IvankaD/Screenshot2011-03-29at65029PM.png

lockrookie

05-08-2012, 02:20 PM

dont get me wrong marko the stands look great but here is the stan dmy father and i build for the 90g ... my wife would honestly hate the look of the laminate based on it wouldnt match the rest ouf our living room furniture we made teh doors and everything from scratchas well.

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/100_6124.jpg

lockrookie

05-09-2012, 05:37 AM

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

so im sitting here thinking i really havent posted an equiptment list for this build. in reality this is more for me that you to make sure i havent missed any aspect and im not sitting with my thmb up my asterix waiting for a part needed lol.

lighting:
aquamedic metal halides 3x150w 2x70w 72" fixture...thanks james..
...will be adding suplimental lighting if needed after tank is running
...leds next year
diy dimable moonlights
coralife refuge light

powerheads
2x1050 koralia
2x750 koralia

return pump
quiet one 6000

skimmer
vertex in-180

ozonator
not sure the brand but i like it

controller
apex lite with pm1 module...thanks corey17...will add a second 8 bar later
i was going to use the reef keeper light...thanks jhammer... but decided on the apex for this tank and will use the rkl on the 50g tank
..ph probe
..orp probe
..temp probe

uv sterilizer
undecided if i will add one yet but i might

calcium reactor
its a coralife reactor btu undecided if it will be running right away i may decide to dose instead again thanks jhammer

heater
300w name brand eludes me at this time

float style auto top of yes i have to be careful with this but it may not work as planned anyways wont know till im there.

i think thats it i may have missed something. the biggest trick will be figuring out the apex programming. i may need to find an apex for dummies booklet online lol.

Paigee

05-09-2012, 07:22 AM

This is really awesome :) can't wait to see everything in it. You are pretty good at all the DIY! I'm too afraid to mess stuff up :P

lockrookie

05-09-2012, 07:26 AM

This is really awesome :) can't wait to see everything in it. You are pretty good at all the DIY! I'm too afraid to mess stuff up :P

Ill tell you a secret.....I'm afraid to do it too but too stubborn not to try..

Sent from a pineapple under the sea...

lockrookie

05-10-2012, 06:17 AM

sooo somebody got motivated today.... i couldnt stand it any more fresh lumber laying around. so i made this for kicks. regretfully im 1 2x6 8' short of finishing the stand framework...

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/100_6658.jpg

MarkoD

05-10-2012, 01:10 PM

make sure to put at least 1 vertical brace in the middle. just to be safe

lockrookie

05-10-2012, 01:24 PM

make sure to put at least 1 vertical brace in the middle. just to be safe

there will be 2 vertical braces in the back of the stand the front will have no brace i doubled the 2x6 and made it a header. more than enough strength there. there is going to be only one removable panel on the front. im tired of doors and ill enjoy the ability to work under tank freely as well the sump conpartment is going to be divided by the equiptment compartment and that divider will add extra support as well. m only real concern is the halide ballasts overheating.but ill figure it out once the rough in work is complete. but thank you for the suggestion.

Coralgurl

05-10-2012, 01:53 PM

Great job on the stand!! Looks like things are progressing nicely for you, but seriously......hurry up!!!:lol: this has been a great build to watch!!

lockrookie

05-10-2012, 05:41 PM

Great job on the stand!! Looks like things are progressing nicely for you, but seriously......hurry up!!!:lol: this has been a great build to watch!!

I'm trying lol every time I go to do something... Something happens work on rock wall it rains go to do something else and the twins are cranky... Then that thing called work gets in the way too. Being on call 24 hours can be a bugger. I'm still aiming for end of June beginning of July not much left to do. Skin stand run wires put in place plumb the lid will come later.

I'm glad your enjoying its fun for me too

Sent from a pineapple under the sea...

lockrookie

05-11-2012, 06:43 AM

now that the stand is framed and ready for skinning i have come tomy first real hurdle. how to secure the access panel on the front of the tank. with the gurls being more mobile i want the front panel to be easily accessible but secure enough from tiny curiousities. so this is what i have come up with. since i dont want to use regular cam locks and dealing with im going to use (hopefully) my reef controller to actuate an electroning latch. or i may hve a seperate switch. either which way i will have two of these on the stand and custom made strikes to hold the panel in place,

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/tanklock.jpg

i know what your thinking cause i am thinking it as well. what if the power goes out and i need in no power no open. i will be having a small back up batery inside the stand as well that will power both the latch and the controller base module in case of power outage this way i can still monitor orp ph and temp of the system forprolonged outages.

in allhonesty i havent worked it out completely but im awaiting the parts and im good at winging it lol

gregzz4

05-11-2012, 07:23 AM

Build is lookin' awesome, as always ...
I'll suggest something that doesn't come up much on this site ...... but don't ever lose the key :smile:

http://www.leevalley.com/en/hardware/page.aspx?p=40353&cat=3,41399,41403

Just a suggestion, but maybe it'll give you something to think about :wink:

lockrookie

05-11-2012, 07:33 AM

that thing would annoy me having to look for them all the time as well i would have to attach bothside to open wheni can just press a button to open. i do realise the risk but the risk over wieghs the possiblity of the girls getting hurt and the look im hoping to achieve. not to mention i like gadgets.

ps i neverhave wo worry bout lost keys magnetic or otherwise :) hence the name if i can break into a bank(yes they asked me to) then i can get into thetank. there will be a third safeguard. that ive thought of since posting

gregzz4

05-11-2012, 07:40 AM

lockrookie

05-11-2012, 07:49 AM

Well then, make your own secret panel, Mr Smartypants :razz:

I look forward to what you come up with, but it better be something stellar now as you've just set the bar ....

Locksmith, Craftsman ....

:mrgreen::mrgreen::mrgreen::mrgreen::mrgreen:

Its not secret I just posted it lol but I have built secret compartments for ppl

Sent from a pineapple under the sea...

gregzz4

05-11-2012, 08:51 AM

Better be secret from the Twins at least :razz:

lockrookie

05-11-2012, 01:21 PM

from what i understand the controler has a keypad lock so it should be a ok

Coralgurl

05-11-2012, 01:36 PM

I'm not sure what type of keypad you're thinking of, if it's battery operated, make sure you change them regularly. We had one on our front door because the kids kept losing house keys, batteries died while we were in Vegas, parents had my keys, it was -30 when we got home at 1 am and our ride had left. Locked out. My brilliant boyfriend didn't want to wait for a locksmith so he kicked in the door.....

lockrookie

05-11-2012, 03:37 PM

ah yes the battery operated door locks are a pain i avoid installing them on ppls homes. but can be handy. the system im puttingon the stand isnt operated by the battery but 12v power the battery is for backup power only the controller itself has a keypad lockonitfor sticky fingers so that ppl cant mess with the programming by accident

lockrookie

05-13-2012, 06:10 AM

fishytime

05-13-2012, 02:20 PM

so finished up the framing on the stand then i figured it would be a great idea to test the sump under the stand for fit.....the sump is too @#$%%%# tall lol oops. it can still work just not a whole lotta room for working in and the skimmer will need a bit of strategic manouvering to get in. but at least the sump will set in place. i wont be upgrading the skimmer any time soon unless its external.

i may rework the bottom of the stand to add some height tho. if there is a will there is a way just means the tank will sit higher up. i forsee a step stool in my future. ir maybe investin some elevator shoes lol

I think a pair of Gene Simmons-esque boots would be stylin!......I feel for ya tho.....my first sump was made from a 55g tank that was 18" tall and it was a PITA to work in....so much so that I ended up having a custom sump made that was lower and wider.....made things much easier for working in the sump....

lockrookie

05-13-2012, 02:43 PM

I think a pair of Gene Simmons-esque boots would be stylin!......I feel for ya tho.....my first sump was made from a 55g tank that was 18" tall and it was a PITA to work in....so much so that I ended up having a custom sump made that was lower and wider.....made things much easier for working in the sump....

I don't think ill rock the boots but its a thought... At this point for another 10 bucks in 2x6 ill remove the bottom of the stand and stretch it a couple inches and that will give me enough room to easily remove sump. Or just use a sheet of 3/4 as base on the bottom and remove the 2x6 I have now and it will drop it enough ill have to try it tonight.

Sent from a pineapple under the sea...

lockrookie

05-14-2012, 03:32 AM

stand reworked... i now have enough clearance.. yeah!!! but i think i chipped the corner of my sump oops... whats a tank build with out a few oops's.. they say it comes in threes so i need one more then im done. lets hope its before i try and lift the tank myself onto the stand. heheh.

im hopeing to find time to pick up the raw maple and plywood tomorrow... thanks to a customer whom is too kind :) may get my ph probe i got for 19 bucks from hong kong my koralia 750's and my orp module for the apex. which reminds me id better check ups to make sure they are shipping it to the right place.. oh yes and the rock wall is complete here is a pic of it together minus the frontal rockwork too lazy toset in place for the pic

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/100_6660.jpg

lockrookie

05-19-2012, 06:06 AM

soooo not going to get alot of sleep tonight, free time willing, im moving the 90 to its temporary location in our kitchen. i hope there is minimal problems andthat the wife and i can accomplish this task without tipping the tank over. or stressing the fish too much. realy stresses me out but here it needs to be done. but once its in place it wont be long before the new tank is in place. after tank move painting varnishing and preping the stand the rest of the weekend

did i mention i am stressing lol hopefully happy pics of the move tomorrow

gregzz4

05-19-2012, 05:46 PM

Hope it's going well

lockrookie

05-19-2012, 10:09 PM

well im happy to say the tank is moved... and it was not easy lol drained all the water into buckets leaving enough for the fish which all they did wise hide under a rock the whole trip. the stand had adhered itself to the carpet which made for heavy lifting and enoumous help and bravery from the wife sticking her fingers under the tank to seperate it from the carpet. so far the nly real casualty is my one timer bar got wet and fried so i have to figure out the rkl to use as a temp timer bar... and micro bubble galore atm. so my day is not over untill i get things smooth again but its moved im sore as hell and heading to the garage to work on the stand to bring in.

lockrookie

05-20-2012, 06:36 AM

on another note i have to say i am mildly surprised i havent seen my cleaner wrasse since january. and durring this process my wife says to me there is something blue in the hang on overflow and sure enough there he is..

note to self make a cover for the new tanks overflow...

gregzz4

05-20-2012, 06:39 AM

Hahaha
Glad to hear you found your wrasse and the move is going well

If you'd like some input on programming your RKL, let me know
I think I've got it down pat now

lockrookie

05-20-2012, 06:54 AM

Hahaha
Glad to hear you found your wrasse and the move is going well

If you'd like some input on programming your RKL, let me know
I think I've got it down pat now

thanks move went well but i cant move im so sore must get rum tomorrow..friggin tank is heavy and its only the 90 lol. but it took 3 hours and its running again and no major gitches.

as for the programing .. all i needed was the lights since i fubared the powerbar i had. it was super easy. i may or may not be using the rkl as a light controller on teh 180 but mostlikely ill be ordering a second powerbar fro the apex....one controller to rule them all lol

gregzz4

05-20-2012, 07:11 AM

I feel your pain :lol:

I hear ya about the Rum
I broke out some Vodka tonight to watch the new critters :smile:

So maybe you could do as I am and use your RKL on a QT ???

lockrookie

05-20-2012, 07:24 AM

near chistmas i will be building a frag tank/qt tnk. not that i really need a qt tank that often i dont buy alot of fish and will only be adding 2 more fish to this tank. give my current buddies more real estate. but dont wish to over crowd them with competing sleeping spots lol they are ****ed at me atm but will soon forgive when they get the final move over

gregzz4

05-20-2012, 07:41 AM

Hehe, they're gonna feel lost when you move 'em

"Oh my God! What a fabulous room! Are all these your guitars?

"This place is bigger than our apartment!

"erm, Can I get a drink of water?

"You want some, huh?"

"Oh wow, look at this tub? Do you wanna take baaaath?"

"What are watching?"

"Hello?"

"Are you feeling okay?..."

:mrgreen: :mrgreen: :mrgreen:

gregzz4

05-20-2012, 07:42 AM

Well, it seemed to fit when I first started to post it ...........

lockrookie

05-20-2012, 07:46 AM

its all good

gregzz4

05-20-2012, 08:01 AM

I wonder how many youngsters will question it :wink:

lockrookie

05-20-2012, 08:04 AM

all i know is that if this build doesnt work out ive build a very pricey coffin... and i will be buried in it

gregzz4

05-20-2012, 08:09 AM

Along with what other toys ??

Mine are my truck and 'strat :lol:

lockrookie

05-20-2012, 08:16 AM

at ths time no other toys.. sold the bike for a washer and dryer.... missedout on a project car last summer didn't have the cash fast enough. once i get rid of the wifes convertable cavalier. i may revisit that idea as it is we have 4 vehicles and ony really drive one unless we go out we use our caravan. but id like to get a car to play with tired of vans.

i do have a guitar but cant play worth crap just mess around with it and the rest of my time is for my girls wife included

gregzz4

05-20-2012, 09:51 AM

I hear ya. I hardly find time to play anymore

We have 3 cars and a truck on the road :redface:
I love the environment - 2 of our rides are guzzling hi-hp 350s :mrgreen: and 3 of the 4 are over 300hp
The fifth is parked for now but is also over 300hp. Good thing for mother earth's sake :wink:

'nuff babbling from me .... back to your build :p

lockrookie

05-21-2012, 07:04 AM

after a little tlc this is where the stand is at this time un varnished. still have to install shelf brackets cut the door panels decide on trim. wire the stand for under tank lighting. thus far im pleased with the outcome

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/100_6665.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/100_6668.jpg

lockrookie

05-22-2012, 06:58 PM

at least my rockwall is providing some shelter from the rain but i think im going to have to clean it a bit lol

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/101_1322.jpg

Nano

05-22-2012, 07:30 PM

lol thats wicked

fishytime

05-22-2012, 10:20 PM

might help kick start the cycle:mrgreen:

lockrookie

05-23-2012, 02:41 AM

might help kick start the cycle:mrgreen:

this is true.. may save me from trying to pee in the tank...lol it was a cool pic i had to take it it just to bad i had the chairs in front of it ,, but they are there to stop the dogs from jumping on it.

fishytime

05-23-2012, 03:14 AM

this is true.. may save me from trying to pee in the tank...lol it was a cool pic i had to take it it just to bad i had the chairs in front of it ,, but they are there to stop the dogs from jumping on it.

I know how ya feel.....was at the zoo recently and would have had some really excellent shots if it weren't for the bang bars!....whats up with those dang bars anyway?:mrgreen:

lockrookie

05-23-2012, 03:26 AM

I know how ya feel.....was at the zoo recently and would have had some really excellent shots if it weren't for the bang bars!....whats up with those dang bars anyway?:mrgreen:

i saw the pics they where amazing im not that great of a photographer. and the last time i was at the calgary zoo i was 10 and i got ****ed on by a tiger. its amazing how well those buggers can aim at small targets. so my experiance at that zoo is not a good one but i will one day take the girls there.

lockrookie

05-26-2012, 06:04 AM

small update of progress just cause i feel like posting. the rain has hindered some progress. but i have successfully run the wires ro line and ethernet cable through the floor. to the furnace room. i plan to sand and finish coat the stand to bring into the house next week rain willing so i can level it and run wires through out. not sure how ill be getting the stand in the house as of yet, let alone liftt he tank ontop of it. but it will be happening soon. this weekend ill be starting to fill buckets with ro water for pre filling. sothats it for now

gregzz4

05-26-2012, 06:08 AM

Glad to hear you're still making some progress. I had days where I .. just .. did .. nothing :mrgreen:

So sorry I'm not closer to help you lift stuff :smile:

Best of luck with all that

lockrookie

05-26-2012, 06:22 AM

ive had alot of days whre i do nothing the girls take priority.. but its allgood if i had moretime and money id have had this running months ago lol but its all good.

i apreciate the thought .. i had ppl offer to help move the tank in the house then pay no attention when it came time. mostly due to fear.. and two where willing but had major surgeries and i wouldnt allow them. i dont need a friend hurting themselves just cause im obsessed. so it ended up my 70 year old father and my wife helped move the tank in. we all hurt for days after. the stand may not be as heavy but still heavy enough to carry in once its in its easy peasy. the biggest fear is getting the tank on the stand that will be a miracle lol i have a plan but it could end badly.

gregzz4

05-26-2012, 06:42 AM

Jeez, sounds like a whole lot of pain out your way. I can't get my old man to help anymore due to his stroke, but I have lots of buds if need be

Maybe a couple boxes of beer and pizza offered on Canreef will get you some young guys to help :mrgreen:
This way you, your dad, and your wife can watch all the back muscles spasming as your tank finds it's way to it's new place :tongue:

lockrookie

05-26-2012, 06:47 AM

eh my plan is just to do it myself with my wife by leaning tank onto stand lifting the other end and rolling it on withplastic pipes. lol wife will help by videoing the ordeal for insurance purposes or funniest home videos

gregzz4

05-26-2012, 06:52 AM

I want a copy of that tape !!! :lol:

Seriously though, I've done the same with a 280lb Kenworth radiator into the back of my truck. I'm sure you'll be just fine

Knees and elbows, not back and wrists :razz:

lockrookie

05-26-2012, 06:55 AM

it will be posted if thats how i end up putting it on. tank does weigh over 380lbs.

true but a rad is metal and not easily broken lol

gregzz4

05-26-2012, 06:57 AM

Ya, but to recore a punctured Kenworth rad does cost over $2k :razz:
And that's with it removed from the truck ( another k at a dealer )

gregzz4

05-26-2012, 06:59 AM

Why do we always have these conversations inside your build ?

Hope you don't mind :smile:

lockrookie

05-26-2012, 07:02 AM

lol it doesnt bother me im not one of those ppl who scream hijack.. its all good my build is slow it needs highlighted convos to fill the voids

gregzz4

05-26-2012, 07:06 AM

Well in that case ....

:blah: :blah: :blah:

:thumb:

gregzz4

05-26-2012, 07:06 AM

Think of it this way ...
Look how many pages your build has now :smile:

lockrookie

05-26-2012, 07:11 AM

lol that doesnt even concern me much either i think of my builds as a way to remember the mistakes i make for the next build. which wontnbe any bigger than this one for a long time. unless we get rid of the daycare. the onnly other build i have to do is a nano for my niece for college. it will only be a 10g tank nothing special. but ive never done a pico yet

lockrookie

05-26-2012, 07:16 AM

but fro tonight its off to bed to lowes early tomorrow morning for trim supplies and misc plumbing. falling asleep watching army of darkness and his boom stick lol

gregzz4

05-26-2012, 07:17 AM

So are you saying if you get rid of the daycare, the brand new peninsula tank will go bye bye, and you'll fill the basement with TANK ???

Night

lockrookie

05-26-2012, 07:19 AM

yeah wife had ok'd a huge tank before the 180 but we couldnt find a spot for it with daycare..

lockrookie

05-28-2012, 06:56 AM

i do have to say after the struggles of running the ethernet wire trouble shooting the wire due to lack of conectivity. once i figured out how to properly wire and crimp the ends. this controller thing is kinda cool. just have to figure out the remote access thing and im set. oh yes and actually hook it to a running tank lol.

tested my ro line to the living room and its flowing nicely. the power line for the tank is there but wont be hooked up till stand is in place. al in all it was a frustrating day with a good outcome

lockrookie

06-01-2012, 05:11 AM

so today was a really bad tank day for me. it seems no matter what build i do i do something stupid. and today was that day. wife and i decided to go to a movie together for the first time in a year. so i was cleaning up a bit for my parents to watch teh girls. rushing away vacuming. in the mean tme my apex i bought used from a fellow reefer was laying on the floor due to me testing and playing with it programinggetting familiar with how it works. i got distracted by the girls and well the display module is now wireless and a cool looking paper weight. ah well at the moment i can still access teh unit via computer but im afraid if i unplug it that the net programing won't stick. and then i wont be able to use it right away..

moral of the story dont leave your expensive electronics on the floor. but onthe upside the wife and i had a great time watching the avengers movie

Snaz

06-01-2012, 05:18 AM

moral of the story dont leave your expensive electronics on the floor. but onthe upside the wife and i had a great time watching the avengers movie

Sorry to hear. What exactly happened, what is broken?

lockrookie

06-01-2012, 05:33 AM

the power head of the vacum wrapped up the cord like a tape measure realing in the tape head unit flew one way the usb end is still yet to be found it flew another way and the wire that connects thetwo shredded. hope of rewireing .. nil i checked.. replacement will have tobe ordered. lol sh...happens.. its liek geting a new car and you drive it home just to have a drunk side swipe it.. nature taes its course.. and in this case it was my fault. i just hope the net programing sticks and i can use it once tank stand is moved in the house next week. if not ill be doing the reg power bar thing until i can replace

lockrookie

06-03-2012, 05:38 AM

so moving forward.. pity party is over for now... back to working on the stand. the base is 85% complete now. just a tiny bit of trim to do yet i hope to have that completed tomorrow. sanded and ready to laquer. still awaiting some parts from china for the locking system (kids safe).. will have pictures tomorrow .. little wiped today.

lockrookie

06-04-2012, 06:03 AM

the stand thus far ready to sand and finish

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/100_6670.jpg
http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af103/lockrookie/180g%20tank/100_6671.jpg

SeaHorse_Fanatic

06-04-2012, 08:25 AM

Looks beautiful.

lockrookie

06-04-2012, 03:51 PM

Looks beautiful.

thanks for the compliment the wife thinks the door part looks out of porportion but itis what it is and hopeflly it will apeal to her more when al the trim is complete. im just happy i can get this thing inthe house this week and get the tank on it to settleand start filling it this weekend.. lets hope lol.

Snaz

06-04-2012, 04:08 PM

thanks for the compliment the wife thinks the door part looks out of porportion but itis what it is and hopeflly it will apeal to her more when al the trim is complete. im just happy i can get this thing inthe house this week and get the tank on it to settleand start filling it this weekend.. lets hope lol.

Once it is stained it will make the doors blend in better. The doors actually look like trim rather than functional doors, it is a beautiful stand.

lockrookie

06-04-2012, 04:17 PM

Once it is stained it will make the doors blend in better. The doors actually look like trim rather than functional doors, it is a beautiful stand.

thank you again. im glad you guys like it as i said the wife is still onthe fence lol

there will no stain just laquer i like the natural wood look. save for the yellowing over time of the finish. all of our living room furnature is finished in this fashion. this way the tank is just another accessory to the set:)