Fishy!'s Long and Low 60ish Gallon

[Fishy!]

Originally Posted by Myka

I would really try to modify your stand design to accommodate a sump 18" wide. Are you using 2x4s?

This was my intention. I am a carpenter by trade, it shouldn't be much of a challenge to build.

Originally Posted by Myka

The trouble with bottom drilled tanks is that there isn't room at the back of the tank to run a 2x4 because the bulkheads will be in the way. That's why I went with a steel stand for my tank. The steel is 1" rather than 1.5" with a 2x4 which is the difference between it fitting and not fitting.

This has been my fear all along, and I have been meaning to message Matt to get the distance from edge of bulkhead to the back of the tank. I actually had one of my welders do up a quote for a steel stand, worked out to being approx $325!!!!!! in material alone. That doesn't even account for his time and rods. The steel stand dream is quickly fading, unless i can find an alternate source for cheaper/free material.

Originally Posted by Myka

Do you want your stand to be flush with the tank and thus be 40 x 22"

This will be ideal.

Originally Posted by Myka

...or do you want the stand to be a bit bigger than the actual tank?
If the stand can be 41 x 23" then you'll have room behind the bulkheads to run a 2x4 on edge.

This is a worst scenario as the area the tank will be going is going to be tight as it is with a 22" depth. I would almost rather have a back bracket made from steel in lou of the back 2x4 on edge.

Originally Posted by Myka

How tall do you want your stand?

Somewhere between 32-40" I am flexible on this. I think i will likely settle on 36" height.