Lonestars 156g Oceanic

[LoneStar]

Well it looks like I'm finally going to be able to build the tank I've always wanted 8) I've had great success in previous tanks but always wanted something bigger, streamline, and clean looking. I'm still a few months away from adding water but figured I would document my progress I have made and will make in the coming months.

Heres what I have collected so far:
156g Oceanic with dual overflows
My old sump from my TOTM August 2006
Tunze Osmolator
Ecotech Vortech Powerhead
PFO 400w HQI pendant and ballast
Moonlights
Icecap 430 VHO ballast
~80 pounds of live rock

What I STILL need:
Deltec AP701
Deltec PF501
Tunze 6100 (2)
Tunze 7095
Reeflo Dart
ALOT OF LIVE ROCK
Plumbing parts and a order from usplastics for random things
Custom welded stand and wood cabinets made
Lumenarc III reflectors (2)
250w electronic ballast and bulbs (2) (not sure which yet)


The main emphasis of this tank will be a barebottom SPS tank. The design is to have it as a room divider, viewable on three sides. Here is a design that I made with Google SketchUp. The doors are not drawn but you can see where they will all end up.
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/156g.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/156g3.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/156g2.jpg

I would love to hear any comments, suggestions, and personal experience as I venture into this build. :)

[LoneStar]

oh and I know someone who will have some tunze for sale soon


S W E E T :)

[JimD]

Looks good! The only thing I see from the drawing is to make sure the lid is detachable from the rest of the build for access to its innards. Thats gonna be a nice one!

[LoneStar]

Looks good! The only thing I see from the drawing is to make sure the lid is detachable from the rest of the build for access to its innards. Thats gonna be a nice one!

Yeah when I get ready to make the canopy, it will sit ontop of the tank and the side part of the stand. The vertical side of the stand will but cut at the same height as the top of the tank so that the canopy will run the whole length of the stand.

But I'm sure once I get to doing all the woodwork, things may change :wacko ;) :)

[TroyPham]

ahhmmm i miss my old tank. good luck with it.

[thedude]

Your setup looks great but I'll offer a few pointers on the Deltec;

Skimmer: Did you choose the AP701 based on its height? If at all possible I'd recommend the AP851 as it's the king of one pump Deltecs. With a price difference of less than $100, it's the better buy.

Calcium Reactor: Same question as the skimmer, is size an issue? Same theory as the price difference between a PF501 and 601 is only $100, so why not go bigger (in case of an upgrade (remember that these units last a LONG time), so the reactor requires less fills and therefore less maintenance).

John

[LoneStar]

Your setup looks great but I'll offer a few pointers on the Deltec;

Skimmer: Did you choose the AP701 based on its height? If at all possible I'd recommend the AP851 as it's the king of one pump Deltecs. With a price difference of less than $100, it's the better buy.

Calcium Reactor: Same question as the skimmer, is size an issue? Same theory as the price difference between a PF501 and 601 is only $100, so why not go bigger (in case of an upgrade (remember that these units last a LONG time), so the reactor requires less fills and therefore less maintenance).

John

Thanks for the insite John. And to be honest I will probably end up going for that, since I'm already there spending that much :wacko whats another $100 ya know? Size limits are not really an issue since the stand is going to be 40" high. I'm a tall guy and I hate bending down just to look into a tank.

The skimmer will obviously come first and the calcium reactor is one of those things to buy at the end...or even when the tank is settled in.

I do have to say Deltec is by far the leader in what they produce. 8)

[LoneStar]

ahhmmm i miss my old tank. good luck with it.

Your tank is a beauty! Its the perfect size I was looking for :) I'll take real good care of her :wub

[TexasTodd]

Nice Michael!

YGPM. ;)

TT

[ou812pezz]

Hey Michael my tank is almost the same exact design. If you have any questions during construction, feel free to holler. The canopy I built is one long separate piece. You're welcome to swing by and check it out.

[bigdscobra]

Good looking tank!! When did u get it?

We may be setting up a small calcium reactor for my tank soon, havent decided yet. :wacko

[cobraden]

Great plans. Keep the info coming.

[klondike4001]

Looks good, where are you planning on putting doors?

[LoneStar]

Hey Michael my tank is almost the same exact design. If you have any questions during construction, feel free to holler. The canopy I built is one long separate piece. You're welcome to swing by and check it out.


I may swing on over and check out your system. Construction will probably begin in March. Still getting a quote on the steel for the stand at work. The wood work will be done at my dad's woodshop but he's swamped right now!




We may be setting up a small calcium reactor for my tank soon, havent decided yet.


I got it last Friday. Forgot to tell you when we talked about the bachelor party :lol Which tank are you setting the reactor up on? The one at home or the one at Line-X?



Great plans. Keep the info coming.


Thanks! The updates will be here and there as I save up for each phase of the project. Although its moving faster that I expected :wacko



Looks good, where are you planning on putting doors?


There will be doors on all the openings in the drawing above. I didn't put them in there...I liked the 3d look without them. Basically this stand will be universal. The plan is to use this tank as a room divider, acting like a peninsula. But if I move, I can always push it up against a wall. There will be matching doors on both sides so that it can be accessed from either side no matter how the stand is placed. The big opening is to accomidate the sump. The smaller ones on the side will be for electoronics and ballasts.

[LoneStar]

Here is the steel frame drawn up and dimensioned out. It will be made out of 1.25" square steel tubing. Material wise, it will cost me around $160. 8) Looking to build it at the end of the month.

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/standweldmentREV2DIMENSIONS1.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/standweldmentREV2DIMENSIONS2.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/standweldmentREV2DIMENSIONS3.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/standweldmentREV2DIMENSIONS4.jpg

Once I get it welded, I'm going to take it to Line-X of San Antonio and have it sprayed. From there its just a matter of setting up a time to do all the woodwork. :)
http://linex.bigdsoffroad.com/images/logo-sa.gif
Line-X of San Antonio
2450 Babcock Rd. Suite 138
San Antonio, Texas 78229
(210) 522-1122
Line-X of San Antonio (http://linex.bigdsoffroad.com)

[ou812pezz]

Your welcome to come by anytime. Nice frame. Mines all wood though from scraps in my garage. It's amazing what a little wood filler and paint can hide. I could probably give you help with the hood design. Mine lifts up on both sides and has the option to hide various other options.

[LoneStar]

PM me your address Patrick and I can see when I get time to swing on by. Ran into some vehicle problems this weekend so I may be sidetracked fixing that rather than getting 'reef' stuff :(

[bigdscobra]

http://linex.bigdsoffroad.com/images/logo-sa.gif
Line-X of San Antonio
2450 Babcock Rd. Suite 138
San Antonio, Texas 78229
(210) 522-1122
Line-X of San Antonio (http://linex.bigdsoffroad.com)


Come on by ;)

[TroyPham]

http://linex.bigdsoffroad.com/images/logo-sa.gif
Line-X of San Antonio
2450 Babcock Rd. Suite 138
San Antonio, Texas 78229
(210) 522-1122
Line-X of San Antonio (http://linex.bigdsoffroad.com)


Come on by ;)


what do you charge to spray and 06 f150 5.5' bed under the rails?

[bigdscobra]

Troy,

Under the rail is $399.

Thanks Dan

[TroyPham]

Troy,

Under the rail is $399.

Thanks Dan


do you accept maast sponsor discounts?? j/k i'll be in town for a few days the first week of march. I'll give you a call.

[LoneStar]

Went by Patricks house tonight and checked out all his tanks. Got some good design ideas for vents and the canopy.

Let me know how Google SketchUp works out for ya! Its easy once you get the hang of it.

[Jeff]

i was over at academy off military and 410 and they had a shelf thing designed for lifting up to the ceiling. it would be great for a lighting system, i'll try to find it on their web site.

i couldn't find it onlime but if you go there it is on the back wall on the right hand side of the store by the sleeping bags. it could be what you want at a cheaper price,

[LoneStar]

Well I figured this thread needed some photos :)

Its funny how quickly a 5 foot tank can swallow up 100lbs of live rock :roll
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/start1.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/start2.jpg

Built a workbench out of the stand I got with the aqaurium. Gives me something to store some more junk on :lol Plus the Live Rock trash cans fit nicely underneath :)
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/start3.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/start4.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/start5.jpg

[LoneStar]

To all those 'Foam Heads' out there, has anyone tried curing your foam 'creations' in a trash can? I've seen a lot of tanks where you just apply the foam to the back wall, but I was thinking about making some PVC stands and applying foam to them. Then cure them with my live rock I got in the garage now. They would help me hold up my live rock when I get ready for aquascaping. Or is it not even worth curing until I get the stands in the tank?

Also, anyone got a good 'recipe' for DIY agrocrete live rock? I'm wanting to make some base rock too.

[TroyPham]

you can cure the foam in the trash can. that's fine, i just used the water from when i cleaned the sand in the tank for curing the foam and the concreat rock wall. i still miss that tank. Ram should still have all the rock work i had in the tank(i think).

[LoneStar]

Thanks for info Troy. Looks like I'm off to Home Depot for a weekend project!

So does anyone have any tips for foam installation? Bascially I'm looking at covering the legs of the PVC stands with foam, leaving the top portion uncoverd so the rock can sit on top of it.

[TroyPham]

the stuff flots like crazy. make sure you have enough rock to hold it down.

[LoneStar]

Ok so I have put the 'foam' on hold for a bit. I'm trying the home made rock approach. I got plenty of time so I figured why not. My thanks go to Patrick for filling me in on the recipe and for a few helpfull links. Basically the stuff I made was from crushed oyster shells and cement. I'm sorta experimenting on shpaes and mixes for now. I'm kinda curious on how it will look and how it holds up once it cures. I poured 3 batches this morning and they are setting up in my garage.

What I used was this:
Crushed Oyster Shells. I bought mine at Lockhill Feed off of Huebner. They were just under $7 for a 50lb bag. Its not as clean as the substrate you would buy at a LFS, but for this purpose, it works.

Portland Cement. I have seen people use type 1 and type 2 online. I grabbed a bag of type 1 white just to see how it would work out.

You need a container or a box to lay down a layer of crushed oyster shells. Make impressions or shapes like a mold.

The mix ratio is 5:1 5 parts shells to 1 part cement. Add water until it is thick in consistancy. Do not add to much water. You do not want a runny mix! In future batches, I'm going to try and substitute some sand with the oyster shells. Maybe like a 4 part shells 1 part sand 1 part cement. Just gotta find some aragonite sand (not silica!) ;)

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/acrocrete1.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/acrocrete2.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/acrocrete3.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/acrocrete4.jpg

Cured pictures will come probably Sunday night or Monday. Once the rock is cured, it will have to soak in fresh water for upwards of 2 months. This is so the pH will slowly drop down to a stable reading. Every 4 to 5 days for the 1st month, a 100% water change will be done. After that, every 7 to 8 days a 100% water change. Once the pH seems more stable, I'm going to add it to a live rock bin and cure it. This should give me some good base rock so that I can add my live rock on top of it. :)

[DaBird47]

Great job! You probably allready know about this site but I will post the info for those who may not know... www.garf.org , a hard site to navagate, but full of great info...

[erikharrison]

I was talking about using styrofoam from hobby lobby and shaping it, then cover it in foam with lots of sand and maybe crushed LR on the top of it. IDK about the whole back wall bit, as I am thinking of going with a very tall crazy shaped rocks that will almost make a type of maze for the fish to swim in. I think for eye appeal I am doing it this way so you see lots of color changes from the fish (which are brightly colored) swimming in and out of purple rocks. The only thing I am worried about is how the lighting will work. I may have to go glass bottom to light from underneath as well. There's alot to think about and alot of options making your own rocks!!!!

[LoneStar]

Well its been 48 hours since I poured the first batch. So far so good :) I made a simple mold to form 2 pieces around my overflow. And I made 2 larger, flat rocks.

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/acrocrete6.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/acrocrete5.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/acrocrete7.jpg

The plan so far is to make enough to cover the bottom of the tank. I may not use it all once I get around to a aquascaping plan though. The second batch is mixed and poured right now. Next weekend I'll start soaking all the batches in water.

[Jeff]

when you make your mix add rock salt at the last minute, then make your shapes. when you have to cure your rock the salt will disolve and leave lots of holes.

[LoneStar]

when you make your mix add rock salt at the last minute, then make your shapes. when you have to cure your rock the salt will disolve and leave lots of holes.

Yeah I forgot to buy some for the first 2 batches. Then I opened the pantry last night and saw a big box from a party awhile back :roll I'm going to try that trick on batch 3 8)

[LoneStar]

WooHoo! Went to work today and ordered my 1 1/4" square tubing for my stand today. Westbrook had it delievered within a few hours :shades


Looks like I got a lot of cutting and sanding to do tonight :)
4 24' sticks of 1 1/4"
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/rawsteel.jpg

[Ping]

I have always planned on someday making some rock. Someday.....

When I make concrete frag plugs I put a 5 gal bucket under my r/o waste line. The line is pushed all the way to the bottom and it overflowes into the yard. My thinking was the constant influx of FW would expedite the curing process. I dont know if it was faster, as it is the only way I have cured concrete.

It could be done on a larger scale eg. garbage cans.

[LoneStar]

Last Thursday I stayed late after work and cut up all the pieces. Hopefully I will get it welded in the next week or so in my spare time at work! :)
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/cutmetal2.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/cutmetal1.jpg

[erikharrison]

You don't, by chance work for the Martinez family do you?

[LoneStar]

You don't, by chance work for the Martinez family do you?

Nope no Martinez family here ;)

[LoneStar]

Well the stand is all tacked up!!!!!! After a 12 hour day, I stayed another 3 hours, along with my boss :o , and we tacked up the frame. Tomorrow night we will finish welding it all up. This thing is beefy :shades

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/welding1.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/welding2.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/welding3.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/welding4.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/welding5.jpg

Full picture tomorrow. I'm tired and I'm going home!!

[caferacermike]

aahhhhh TIG...... I'm so jealous........

[Louis]

Very nice!

[LoneStar]

Well it was a little bit delayed due to my real job interferring with my hobby :roll ;) but the stand is getting closer....

Here are some pictures of it all Line-X'd. Dan over a Big D's Motorsports & Line-X of San Antonio did a awesome job coating this beast! 8)

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/linex1.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/linex2.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/linex3.jpg

I also got my DIY rocks soaking in a 50g rubbermaid container. I made about 160lbs of rock. Not sure if I will use it all though but should make some good base structures.
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/acrocrete8.jpg

[LoneStar]

Nice looking stand!! looks almost too good to stick a tank on it....almost lol

Thanks! :)

I kept thinking it would make one heck of a work bench in the garage :P
I was really impressed with the way the Line-X turned out. I thought about just leaving it open...only for a second though. Can't wait till I get the plywood on the top and bottom so I can set the tank ontop. Then its just a matter of skinning the outsides and making the doors. But that may take awhile to do....

In the mean time I'm getting the electrical done and will start planning out the plumbing. Slow steps. Just wish I had more money!! >_<

[brewercm]

Starting to look real nice. Sweet stand, that thing should hold a tank. :lol

[LoneStar]

Starting to look real nice. Sweet stand, that thing should hold a tank. :lol

haha The guys at work were calling it a shark diving cage!


Well I was able to get the electrical done for the lower part of the stand today. I was only short 1 outlet and didn't feel like driving over to the hardware store to buy another :roll

I added a shop light when I Line-X'd the stand. This will help me when I do any work underneath the tank. Each set of outlets is placed where certain equipment will sit. The skimmer and the return pump have switches so I can turn them on/off for maintenance. Basically each section will run into a 12 x 12 junction box. This is where all the wiring will be connected. Once I get the AquaController Jr. and DC8, the DC8 will be placed in the lower end of the box.

The next step is getting some plywood to deck the top and the bottom of the stand.

Here are some photos. The big 12 x 12 box has a cover, just haven't attached it yet.
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/electricallower1.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/electricallower2.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/electricallower3.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/electricallower4.jpg

[mhaynes01]

Thats awesome!

[hobogato]

wow mike - that is looking awesome!!!

[Headless_donkey]

I have to agree. That is awesome!

[Bill S]

That is just insane...

[mathias]

to much space need a bigger sump :) remember bigger is always better..... LOL

[Willow]

that is amazing!

[erikharrison]

That's nice....... :) Looking really, really good.

[LoneStar]

Well the plywood is on the top and bottom now. The foam is cut. And the tank is on the stand!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Woot! :)






http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/tankonstand2.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/tankonstand1.jpg

Oh and excuse my roomates junk in the garage. I'll pay someone to 'steal' it in the middle of the night with the garage door 'accidently' left open :innocent

[SACoastie]

You have really outdone yourself. Can't wait to see more! Excellent job! :D

[LoneStar]

Thanks for all the compliments! Its coming along slowly as I get funds set aside. I've been taking ideas here and there from other builds I have seen in person and online. The best part is I haven't put ANY of this on a credit card. Thats my goal....albeit a distant one :)

[erikharrison]

that's how I do CASH IN HAND!

[LoneStar]

Made a little more progress this weekend. Finished the basic frame on the ned of the tank. This will hold ballast's on the top and inside. It will also hold the inverters for the Tunze's and the EchoTech Vortech pumps. Both sides will have a door once I start skinning the stand.

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/electricaldone1.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/electricaldone2.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/electricaldone4.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/electricaldone5.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/electricaldone6.jpg

I call it Medusa :lol
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/electricaldone3.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/electricaldone9.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/electricaldone7.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/electricaldone8.jpg

The plan is to have (2) Tunze 6100's in the front corners of the tank. On the back wall there will be (1) Tunze 6060. On the right side wall there will be a EchoTech Vortech powerhead. Hopefully when I get ready to fill this thing with water, the much anticipated single controller for the Vortech will be out :roll Add the Dart for return and all I gotta say is FLOW 8) Barebottom Baby!!!
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/electricaldone010.jpg

[brieman]

Looking good!!!

[LoneStar]

I gotta give a big thanks to Ace. Went by his house tonight and we...errr him...redesigned the LumenAce tonight :) Basically got the patterns cut out to make my own Lumenarcs. This was a big step forward and a big savings in my total budget. Going to post photos once I get the material ordered and start the fun part of cutting them out! :shades

Here is the website on where I will be ordering the Spectral Aluminum from:

http://www.aquatictech.com/aquarium_lighting.html

Standard Sizes
12"x24" $14.00
12"x36" $21.00
24"x24" $28.00
24"x36" $42.00

[LoneStar]

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/reflectortemplates.jpg

Well I used Ace's idea of making the templates out of a sturdier material, to make cutting a lot easier. I also layed out the cut pattern. To make 2 full size Lumenarc's, I will need:

(2) sheets of 12x36
(1) sheet of 24x 36

for a grand total of $84.00 After that its just a matter a buying the mogul sockets for a couple bucks apiece. So that would be roughly ~$125.00 in savings vs buying 2 new Lumenarcs. Not bad.

[ou812pezz]

very nice. I am wanting to build the lumenarcs myself as well. I Have to finish the Indiana Jones tank first though.

[erikharrison]

Good planning, good dedication, great thread. Awesome job Michael, crack open a LSL for me!

[LoneStar]

sweet I love the medusa!!

haha thanks. I guess it kinda grew into one big cluster, but once the sides are put on, you won't see any of it. It will be nice to have the device your using located next an outlet :) Most of them are all 'zones' that will connect to the controller.

you could be crazy and build a dual bulb single lumenMichael :shades

Yeah I thought about doing that. If I wasn't running a DE pendant in the middle of the tank, I would be nice to design a longer lumenarc that would hold 2 bulbs. But I guess with the open space in the middle, you might lose some downward light direction.

Good planning, good dedication, great thread. Awesome job Michael, crack open a LSL for me!

Thanks. Slow steps! Alot of the ideas have come from reading other systems online. A few years ago, I'd be wanting to put water in this sucker by now. Nowadays, I've figured out patience and whats on my dream wish list; now I just gotta save up and buy the equipment :) Along with the corals down the road...

[LoneStar]

very nice. I am wanting to build the lumenarcs myself as well. I Have to finish the Indiana Jones tank first though.

I'll be posting progress of them. If you need a copy of the pattern, hit me up.

You need to make a foam idol head and then have a eel swim in and out of it. :D

[LoneStar]

Ok its been a lazy weekend. All I wanted to do was figure out how much material I will need to 'skin' the stand. Here are the drawings :)

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/skinlayout2.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/skinlayout1.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/skinlayout3.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/skinspecs.jpg

The doors are not drawn. Neither is the light rack. The light rack will be attached to the inside of the canopy. It will be made out of aluminum angle and hold each reflector and the VHO bulbs. Its also going to act as a internal skeleton to provide bracing for the canopy.

[LoneStar]

Well its been awhile since I've had a update.

I took the stand over to my dad's house so we can start the wood work on the exterior of the stand. It appears the wood work may be done a lot sooner than both he and I thought. As soon as we drug it into the house (and found out it won't make to the turn to store it into the extra bedroom) my mom said that thing has to go or she is going to stick it up our....... :lol So needless to say the wood is bought, its just a matter of teaming up on the upcoming weekends to start working on it. :)

The aluminum was bought for the DIY reflectors, except I am still waiting on recieving it. Aquatic Tech has been slow in getting my order completed. Personally I wouldn't recommend using them again for these reasons: They only take orders over the phone or through email. So when I called in my order, they lost it. So I had to call it in again (after not hearing anything from them). Then they wrote my credit card information down wrong. When they noticed the card didn't go through (wrong security code from the back of the card) they didn't bother to call me to see what the deal was. In the mean time I keep emailing them to no response. It seems like a mom and pop kinda shop so buyer be warned. The older man I talked to knew what he was doing, it was just his hired assistants that didn't keep up with the paper work and customer service. The material should get here by the end of the week and I'll post pictures as I build the reflectors.

Getting another 50lbs of live rock from the Wolf Reef group order. Ed's got the best prices in this area for live rock! I may not have to use too much of my DIY; rock so some of it may be up for grabs next month.

I'm also kicking around the idea of using this bad boy as a controller:
http://www.seaqualux.de/images/ProfiLuxPlus-II.jpg
The Profilux II controller. Its got a hefty price tag...more than what I was planning on buying with the AC Jr. BUT in the long run it may work out better for these facts. The Jr. was going run me roughly $300. I'd still have to buy a pH probe too, $40-$50. I'm going to be using (2) Tunze 6100's so I was going to get the multi-controller from Tunze, which would be another $240. Then, I was looking at a cheap, old laptop on Ebay (there are lots) in the $100 to $150 range. The computer would be only used for the Jr. and to be hooked up to the net. After all that is said and done I'm at the price of what a Prolifux II controller would cost :) Plus it would do everythingthat the equipment listed before hand would do, in one package!

http://www.aquariumspecialty.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=49_234_235&products_id=1259

Here is what comes in the basic package:
Controller
1ea 4 outlet power bar
1ea 6 outlet digital powerbar
Water level Sensor
PC RS 232 connection
Software (CD)
Professional Grade Temp Probe
professional Grade pH Probe
pH 7 & pH 9 cal fluid
1ea Tunze connection cable
Profilux Manual

Although some of the items are priced silly for it (the fans for example), others are pretty reasonable. Since I'm picking up equipment as I go, these items were going to be bought over a long time frame. I may just wait and get the Profilux instead :) Someone talk me out of it! :lol But I'd like to hear anyones experience with these or if you have seen someone post experiences with these on other forums.....

Plus I just think this remote display is too cool (I'm an equipment junkie)
http://www.aquariumspecialty.com/catalog/images/ProfiLuxViewII.jpg

[ClownReef®]

..Thats sexy...

[TroyPham]

i like the profilux. i wanted to get one when they were at macna.

they have light controls too with the system you are getting.(want to get)

[LoneStar]

i like the profilux. i wanted to get one when they were at macna.

they have light controls too with the system you are getting.(want to get)

So what kind of light controls dose this unit do? (other than on/off)

I'm still reading up on these.....while at work no less. :o ^_^

Talked to a few users on ReefCentral from Canada and they love these controllers. Looks like all the reps for the US would be in Canada!

[TroyPham]

they had this lightling/weather effect with led's. when i talked with them they were working on some kinda dimmer control for mh's

[LoneStar]

Yeah I saw the LED's listed for sale. Kinda pricey....but may be a option down the road. Would be interesting to have real life lighting (weather effects) for the tank. I wonder what kind of ballasts you would need for the dimable option on the mh's? Electronic ballasts I'm thinking? I still haven't made up my mind on what ballasts and bulbs to pick out for my lights ;)

[BIGBIRD123]

>>>

[LoneStar]

Got some more live rock today from Ed at Wolf Reef. After pulling the LR out that I already had, I layed it with the new rock. Turns out I won't need any of the DIY rock. Oh well :roll So my DIY is up for grabs if anyone wants it. Classroom Ace??

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/june211.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/june212.jpg

Looks like a starfish was in mine...but the little guy didn't make the trip ;)
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/june213.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/june214.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/june215.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/june216.jpg

[hobogato]

yes please, i will take it for the classroom.

[LoneStar]

yes please, i will take it for the classroom.

I took it out of the fresh water soak today. I ran a pH test kit on the water before I drained it and it ran a little high (8.6ish) on the Salifert test kit. Its sitting dry in my garage now Ace, but that shouldn't hurt it at all. I can bring it over to the meeting on Sunday. So it may need to soak in some fresh water for a bit longer...not sure though since I haven't made this before. Either way its ~150lbs that can be broken up into smaller pieces with a hammer :) And it just needs to be cured in saltwater.

[hobogato]

thanks :D it will have all summer to cure in saltwater in the classroom.

[erikharrison]

I think I speak for everyone when I say that you have such admirable dedication. It's nice to see. This is like a giant DIY!

[LoneStar]

I think I speak for everyone when I say that you have such admirable dedication. It's nice to see. This is like a giant DIY!

Thanks. Its been slow and steady :D Not to mention nerve racking everytime I see an awesome setup. I'm going insane trying to get the last few pieces together :lol

Well a big thanks to Steve (BigBird123) for allowing me to buy his EuroReef RS135 :) :) I saw this bad boy up for sale and couldn't resist. Its going to allow me to setup the tank sooner than I planned. I am still going to get a Deltec, but its going to be further down the road. Christmas present to myself perhaps :innocent But for now the EuroReef will do wonders; in both skimming my live rock bin and when I get the tank filled with water. Since I will not have a high bio-load till the late fall, it will work like a champ!

I also came up with a list of plumbing parts I'll need for the tank. Believe it or not I'll be able to do it with 2 purchases, and NO trips to the hardware stores! I went over it a few times and I'll be getting the ball valves, bulkheads, and various fittings through savko.com. The various PVC pipe sizes will be bought through flexpvc.com. I was thinking of using the sch80 gray fittings (only for the color) but they ran the total price up pretty quick. I really don't want any white PVC plumbing :o :P So the plan is to get black PVC spaflex and then paint the white PVC fittings black. Stay tuned.....

Best prices for true union ball valves
www.savko.com

Best prices for spaflex (black, white, gray)
www.flexpvc.com

Its been toooooo long....but I finally have a skimmer again!!
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/euroreef3.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/euroreef1.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/euroreef2.jpg

[LoneStar]

Ok the aluminum came in on Friday of last week. Too bad I don't work Fridays! :roll So I had to wait until Monday to get the reflectors started. After a lot of cutting, sanding, and buffing; I was able to put one together last night! Heres the Lumenarc III copies/LumenAces/LumenMike's :)

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/lumenmine5.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/lumenmine1.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/lumenmine2.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/lumenmine3.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/lumenmine4.jpg

I just gotta make the other reflector, then design the mogul socket mount.

[LoneStar]

The second one is made :) Next up is the sliding mogul rails....

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/lumenmine6.jpg

[LoneStar]

Ok here is the sliding mogul attachment. This will move the light bulb in and out, centering it in the reflector.

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/lumenmine7.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/lumenmine8.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/lumenmine9.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/lumenmine010.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/lumenmine011.jpg

For those DIY'ers, here are links to drawings for the standard/large and mini versions of the Lumenarc III's
http://www.thebrian.net/reflector/

[LoneStar]

Ok after looking it over a bunch of times I finally made up my mind about bulbs and ballasts :)

(2) 250w 12.5k Giesmann MEGACHROME SE bulbs to be placed in the DIY Lumenarc III's
http://www.aquariumspecialty.com/catalog/images/Megacrome_Pic.jpg
http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=13K-250SE-G&Category_Code=mh-250w

(1) 400w 10k DE Hamilton in a PFO pendant
http://hellolights.com/ProductImages/metalhalidelamps/hamilton/hamilton400w.jpg
http://hellolights.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=512

(2) 140w 60" URI Super Actinic bulbs
http://www.premiumaquatics.com/images/uri.jpg
http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=60BVHO&Categ ory_Code=URIblue

The 250w lamps will be powered by a IceCap electronic ballast.
http://www.premiumaquatics.com/images/ice250nb.jpg
http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=ICE-250NHB&Category_Code=Ice-halide

The 400w lamp will be powered by a PFO magnetic ballast (which I already have).

The VHO lighting will be powered by a IceCap 430 electronic ballast (which I already have).

[LoneStar]

Well here is my plumbing list :P

Can't wait to get through all this nit-pick stuff and get water flowing!

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/plumbinglist-1.jpg

[LoneStar]

Well I went ahead and got the King Starboard material ordered to line the bottom of the aquarium!! It should be here by Friday, cut to size from Regal Plastics :shades Pictures to come when I silicone it to the tank :)

[LoneStar]

Ok the King Starboard is here and almost done being installed! I ran out of silicone 8" too short in doing the seams. Another trip to Lowes later on tonight but heres whats happend so far....
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/starboard1.jpg

The pieces were cut at Regal Plastics. It is in three pieces, because I have to work around the center brace of the tank. After picking up the material I went by my work to cut out the sections where the overflows will be.
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/starboard3.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/starboard4.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/starboard5.jpg

After siliconing the pieces to the tank bottom, I will fill in the gap between the Starboard and the glass wall. I did not want to run the material up against the glass because it would cause stress on the silicone that holds the glass together.
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/starboard6.jpg

Since this material is fairly smooth (and slick...sorta), I cut grooves on the bottom side with a cut-off wheel. This will roughen up the bottom surface and help the silicone stick better.
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/starboard8.jpg

Apply a bead of silicone around the edge of the piece you will glue down. This will prevent any water and detritus from building up underneath. Then fill in the center section with as much silicone as you can. :)
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/starboard9.jpg

Then its a matter of putting weight on top to get a good bond.
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/starboard010.jpg

[KyleV]

Maybe a silly question but what is the reason for the Starboard.

[LoneStar]

It is going to be my substrate. I am going to try the barebottom method of a reef tank. No sand ;) The Starboard is a HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) UV resistant material. Instead of placing the rock directly on top of the glass bottom, this will protect the glass when a rock may fall. Plus since its white, it will help reflect light back upwards to the coral.

Going barebottom will allow more flow for SPS corals. The increased flow will prevent the detritus from building up on the floor of the tank :) Plus no more sand in the water column :)


looking good man you are setting up the right way!

Thanks! I'm getting soooo close to putting water in it now. I ordered the plumbing parts today. All thats left is finishing up the wood work.

[jc]

Does the starboard grow coralline on it? If it does that would be a cool looking floor.

[LoneStar]

Does the starboard grow coralline on it? If it does that would be a cool looking floor.

From what I have seen online, it will grow on it :)

[KyleV]

ah that is a great idea!!! If you don't mind be asking what did it cost you with shipping and everything?

[erikharrison]

wow three months! That's crazy!!! Mike, you picqued my interest. I can't wait till you get it up and running!!!

[LoneStar]

I bought it at Regal Plastics in San Antonio. It cost me $116 + tax + a small shipping charge (the footprint of the tank is 5' x 2'). Its pricey...but there are a few reasons I went this route.

* If I opted to do sand for a tank this size, it would have cost me about the same.

* I was finding a similar product online called Seaboard. Apparently it has the same qualities as Starboard, just a different manufacturer. After finding a place to buy the material online, I would have had to order a $100 minimum (that being the cheapest site). Then I would have had to pay a pretty large shipping fee for a over sized package ;)

* Regal ordered it for me, and cut it into the 3 sizes I needed. That saved me a step. Plus they were nice square cuts. The only thing I had to do was notch out the overflow slots.

* I ordered it at noon on Wednesday and picked it up ready to go on Friday at lunch time! Quick turnaround!

[KyleV]

Thanks for the info! I'm collecting parts for a larger tank again and will probably be going bare. That doesn't seem to high compared to sand prices.

[erikharrison]

just the benefit of having the white for reflection is great. This thread gets cooler by the minute :P

[LoneStar]

Here is the final product.
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/roditank5.jpg

And here is my RO/DI top off storage tank. It was a 'off white' color before. I found some textured spray paint at Lowes that I liked and painted it. That way it won't stand out as much in the living room!
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/roditank1.jpg

My Tunze Osmolator will be connected to it for the auto top off. I may connect a Kalk reactor inline later on down the road....
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/roditank2.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/roditank4.jpg

[LoneStar]

Heres the token Savko plumbing photo: http://forums.ircspy.com/images/smilies/thumb.gif

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/valves.jpg

This is 1 of the 3 shipments I'll need for the plumbing parts. The black SpaFlex was ordered and I'm still waiting on it to get here. The last thing to get will be a check valve from MarineDepot.

I'm going for a sleek look with the plumbing. Black PVC with gray valves. The white fitting will be painted black with some Krylon Fusion paint. This stuff works awesome on plastics! http://forums.ircspy.com/images/smilies/ylsuper.gif
http://www.hardwarestore.com/media/product/103214_front200.jpg

[cbianco]

Your build is looking great LoneStar! I am excited to see the final product.

You mentioned that the top off container is going to be in the livingroom. How is that going to work? Will it be hidden or in plain sight? Just curious.

Christopher :)

[LoneStar]

Your build is looking great LoneStar! I am excited to see the final product.


http://forums.ircspy.com/images/smilies/iagree.gif
http://forums.ircspy.com/images/smilies/28208052075.gif




You mentioned that the top off container is going to be in the livingroom. How is that going to work? Will it be hidden or in plain sight? Just curious.


For now its going to be in plain sight. Thats why I ended up painting it... I got the container for free but its not the size/shape I was planning for. Once the tank is up and running (and I have more spare funds), I want to get a water container like this one from tractor supply:
http://www.mytscstore.com/images/productImages/prod_200_by_200/2137324.jpg
http://www.mytscstore.com/detail.asp?pcID=4&paID=1034&sonID=157&page=1&produ ctID=26942

Then the idea was to build a end table over it, conceling the storage tank.

[cbianco]

...I got the container for free but its not the size/shape I was planning for.

Free is always good! I hate to play devils advocate but... Are you worried about leaks with having such a large top off in your livingroom? Granted, most of us have had to deal with a leaky tank but that top off container is a large additional amount of water.


...Then the idea was to build a end table over it, conceling the storage tank.

Thats a pretty neat idea, to build a coffee table (with the smaller resevoir).

Alright, let's see some progress here! :) Are you sleeping when you could be working? :P

Christopher

[LoneStar]

Free is always good! I hate to play devils advocate but... Are you worried about leaks with having such a large top off in your livingroom? Granted, most of us have had to deal with a leaky tank but that top off container is a large additional amount of water.


LOL Nah I'm not worried. On my old tank I had a Brute trash can hooked up to the tank via a Tunze Osmolator. That thing is super accurate and I never had a problem leaking. The only leaking I had was when I forgot to turn off the RO/DI unit when refilling it. :roll This time around I have garage access so all my water storage will be kept in the garage. Then I'll just refill the top off tank inside when it depletes.



Thats a pretty neat idea, to build a coffee table (with the smaller resevoir).


Gotta say I stole the idea from Donny (don-n-sa). I saw a similar setup at his house and I really liked the concept.



Alright, let's see some progress here! Are you sleeping when you could be working?


Its coming along slowly...due to funds. The only remaining things to do are:
* Complete the stand. It looks like we are going to take the stand back to my house on Sunday and then start attaching some of the wood pieces we got started on. The plan is to get all the wood work done...sans doors and canopy. Gotta see how everything will fit first. But I will probably set it up in the living room and start adding water, just to get the cycle process started.

* I still need to get a new RO/DI unit and a refractometer. Those are the only remaining items left on my check list to purchase to complete phase 1. Too bad phase 1 is taking almost a year!!!

* After the water is filled and the stand and canopy is completed, then all the fun purchases can be made. Controller, light bulbs and ballasts, Tunze(s), Deltec.... :innocent

But in the mean time I'm running around like a mad man trying to get things squared away!
http://forums.ircspy.com/images/smilies/5822332967.gif

[LoneStar]

Heres a little progress update on the woodwork. The stand is over at my dad's house. Looks like it may (fingers crossed) be ready to take back to my house this weekend so we can start staining it. Doors and canopy will be started once the tank is setup and filled with water. http://forums.ircspy.com/images/smilies/thumb.gif

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/woodprelim1.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/woodprelim2.jpg
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/woodprelim3.jpg

If anyone is interested, he does custom woodwork projects. He is also a member of the River City Art Group.

Metts-Works (http://home.flash.net/~metswork)

[ismvel]

Lonestar, in your opinion, how will that tank look as a room divider? I have a tank that has the dual overflows and I really wanted to do the same as you, having it visible on three sides but am a bit hesitant because the inside of over flows will be showing in one side of the rooms. And I am not sure if I want to see the plumbing while trying to enjoy the tank. Do you have plans for the overflows, or am I not understanding what you got planned?....I can't wait to see this thing set up...so I can get a better picture of how it will look.

[erikharrison]

coooooooooooooooooooolllllllllll. It's gonna be a drooler when it's done! Who have you learned your zen like patience from? The student is becoming the master??? :) Are you going to do the big lip around the top of the stand? I think those look realllllly niceeeee.

[erikharrison]

oh yeah, you still gotta rig a switch to turn on your shoplight under the stand to the hinges of the doors, or the disco ball idea. :P

[LoneStar]

Well some day down the road it will look like this tank:

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/rctotm.jpg

John Tangeman's (drtango) Reef Aquarium TOTM March 2007 ReefCentral
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2007-03/totm/index.php




And this tank:

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/rctotm2.jpg

Jose Dieck's (jdieck) Reef Aquarium TOTM October 2005 ReefCentral
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2005-10/totm/index.php

...put together.

The idea of using the wood panels to cover the overflows is a good idea. I'm not going to be doing that route. I'm going to leave them exposed. Only for the fact I don't mind them and I like seeing how the overflow is working...incase I get a clog or a MIA fish. The covers on that tank shown above to come off. Plus he hid his drains, return line, and electrical lines in his overflows.

[ismvel]

Thanks Lonestar, that helps some. I have the corner overflows so mine would be paneled on the corners if I went this route. Those are nice tanks, and like I said can't wait to see yours...and N-I-C-E build by the way...

[erikharrison]

yeah dude, sweet thread for sure.

[cbianco]

Well some day down the road it will look like this tank...

Both of these tanks are shining examples of hard work and dedication.

LoneStar, is your tank going to be a room divider or against the wall? You may have said earlier (in the thread) but my attention span can be minimal at times.

Personally, I've always had a thing for tanks that divide large rooms up. Unfortunately, I need a large room to split up now, :P

Christopher

[LoneStar]

I think having it viewable on 3 sides will expand the depth of the tank. My 55g was sit against the wall (like many tanks) and you couldn't really see what was going on behind the rock work. It was pretty much like a different world.



Who have you learned your zen like patience from?


Frost Bank If I don't have the money, I gotta wait ;) Not charging anything for this tank so it does take time and patience.



Are you going to do the big lip around the top of the stand?


Yeah there will be a lip covering the trim on the bottom and top edges of the tank. I wish I had better photos of the woodwork progress. Those were sent from my dad. Apparently he's taken over this woodworking phase and running with it. I've been offering to come over and help and he just trails off about some other neat thing he's going to do....

A lot of the inspiration came from local members tanks. Todd, Ace, Brian, Donny, and Patrick's to name a few. If ya'll ever get the invite over to these member's houses, take good notes on how they have set up their systems!

[LoneStar]

Well some day down the road it will look like this tank...

LoneStar, is your tank going to be a room divider or against the wall? You may have said earlier (in the thread) but my attention span can be minimal at times.

Christopher

Room Divider :) But it is designed (cabinet door wise) to be accessed equally from both sides. So if I do have to place it against the wall, it will still work out.

[ismvel]

LoneStar.....I noticed you had electical outlets out the wazoo, and in the pictures of the finished tanks I didn't see any cables running either. So where will the main source of electricity be coming from? Will you have to run an extension cord to an out let somewhere?

[LoneStar]

LoneStar.....I noticed you had electical outlets out the wazoo, and in the pictures of the finished tanks I didn't see any cables running either. So where will the main source of electricity be coming from? Will you have to run an extension cord to an out let somewhere?

Not all are needed but some are strategically placed :)

I will have to cut a slot on one of the sides for the extension cords to run inside the stand. It will only have two cords running into it (from two different circuits in the house).

[LoneStar]

http://forums.ircspy.com/images/smilies/ssst.gif

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a142/LoneStarSA/156g%20build/dartskimmerdimensions1.jpg