85g shallow & deep FRAG tank to display tank

[Mr Cob]

Just placed my order for:

TANK:

DSA 85g RR 48" x 24" x 17" tank with a peninsula overflow.

I was going to go "island overflow" but when it came down to it I thought that might cause some limitations for me.

STAND:

DSA oak with a mahogany finish and 40" tall. Standard for them is 32" so I went a bit taller. I had originally wanted 48" but 40" was a happy compromise for cost.

CANOPY:

DSA standard; 48 x 24 x 10

....about 4 weeks. Just in time to set it up. I want it set up and in place the first week in Aug. This tank will support my tank move of my 144g and will eventually end up as a frag display tank.

Concept: To showcase the "art" of fragging. Fragging is an important lifeline for our reefs and I really do enjoy propagating corals of all types. It's funny to me when people, not already in the hobby, come over; they always comment on the frag plugs and fragments of coral that I try with every effort to hide. These thoughts are what have inspired this tank build.

[Mr Cob]

One more item....

I got a custom quote for some black acrylic "display" frag racks from a guy I found doing a google search...



Mine will be two sets similar to the following picture but only one center/upper rack and about 5" above the lower racks. The lower racks will also be 4 or 5" off the ground. I can't wait!
(not my pic)
http://www.stevesreef.com/Pictures/mini-DSC_0291.JPG

[StevenSeas]

sweet looking racks, so how do you plan on having everything laid out?

[tzhanks]

What kind of lighting are you going to put over this?

[Mr Cob]

My racks will actually be two sets of 3 tier racks. Each 3" apart from bottom to top. I want everything to look symmetrical. Clean sharp lines. Even all of the frag plugs will be the same. So that thought alone may nix the foam I had planned on using on the bottom and back for pressing plugs into.

The tank will be bare bottom of some sort and I do not intend to make it look "reef like". Big sump/refugium loaded with liverock.

Lighting will either be T5 or preferably 2 x 250w MH (20K) or less. I want it to be the same as my main display system (which is 2 x250w MH 14k) so there is no shock from one tank to the next. I have 3 PowerBrite LED modules already that will go to this tank and some K3's.

[StevenSeas]

hmm I still like the foam idea for the back, nice way to make it look displayish while still keeping frags in it

[RayAllen]

Really Cool frag rack. Looking forward to the build Rob.

[Europhyllia]

very nice. DSA should be able to stay occupied just with us MAASTards!

[Mr Cob]

hmm I still like the foam idea for the back, nice way to make it look displayish while still keeping frags in it

Same here. I have some time to thing about it and plan, so we'll see what happens.


Really Cool frag rack. Looking forward to the build Rob.

Thanks, Ray. I'm super stoked. Not too excited about moving though. I hate tank tear downs. Getting something new makes it easier though :)

[Mr Cob]

very nice. DSA should be able to stay occupied just with us MAASTards!

No joke. I saw your big boy tank was from there as well. I really hate waiting though!

[Europhyllia]

I saw your big boy tank was from there as well.
I got the cheapo version though! I'm so excited Gabe told me about the Ocean View line. Perfect money savings for me to get a customizable tank for less than a standard Marineland! Woot.

[txav8r]

Hey Rob, Allan and I have been talking about building acrylic frag racks. I'm sure we could whip those out.

[Mr Cob]

^yeah, but.....with the baby on the way and everything else that's going on I'm not sure how much time I would have to pick up materials and or even meet up with you guys when that does go down. Also, I don't know where to get black acrylic. It just seems easier for me to say "this is what I want" and then have it arrive on my doorstep.

Thanks for offering though.

Karin, mine is also from the Ocean View line. DSA acquired Ocean View last year. From my understanding the DSA "Ocean View" line has improved. So you get the Ocean View price but with the added benefit of DSA custom work, quality assurance and some improvements such as overflows etc....

Oh and let me add, that it's still not cheap! I had originally planned for this to cost half of what it is costing me. Oh well.

[Europhyllia]

Karin, mine is also from the Ocean View line. DSA acquired Ocean View last year. From my understanding the DSA "Ocean View" line has improved. So you get the Ocean View price but with the added benefit of DSA custom work, quality assurance and some improvements such as overflows etc....
Yes I think it's a great value. After my tank burst I was actually a little scared of chancing a 215g with wave motion. I'll cry if I have another tank burst! So I talked to them about the differences between the 'real' DSA and the Ocean View and he said glass and silicone would all be the same. The trim is a little cheaper on the Ocean Views and they tape the silicone seams on the DSAs but don't tape them on the Ocean Views to save time. Since they make aquariums all the time even untaped wouldn't look too messy. That's the only difference. :)

What kind of bracing did you get?

[Mr Cob]

I'm not sure what kind of bracing I'm getting. I asked them to make it standard for a tank that size with that footprint.

[Mr Cob]

Here's what i have planned thus far: Top down shot....

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1243/4728663699_7ae7993a40_b.jpg

[StevenSeas]

Looks sweet, glad your keeping the foam in the design. Have you thought about putting a scwd on there? My friend uses a 1" one on his amazing 180 (best tank ive seen sorry guys). Has the returns on both sides of his tank, uses 2 flow accelerators on one side and non on the other to keep diff flow requirements. Looks amazing and great growth with the random design. Sorry for the rant I know you were trying to keep costs down on this project and I think a scwd is a cheap but nice peice of equip specially w/ 15-20 dollar flow accel. good stuff keep it coming

[Mr Cob]

Looks sweet, glad your keeping the foam in the design. Have you thought about putting a scwd on there? My friend uses a 1" one on his amazing 180 (best tank ive seen sorry guys). Has the returns on both sides of his tank, uses 2 flow accelerators on one side and non on the other to keep diff flow requirements. Looks amazing and great growth with the random design. Sorry for the rant I know you were trying to keep costs down on this project and I think a scwd is a cheap but nice piece of equip specially w/ 15-20 dollar flow accel. good stuff keep it coming

This is why I love doing build threads....you guys catch everything.

That's a great, inexpensive idea! I think I will add it to the list. If I understand correctly I can just plumb it after my return pump and it will alternate the water flow from either end? FYI: I'll be using hoses from the in sump return pump and back up to two return drilled holes at the bottom of the tank.

[jesserettele]

Looks awesome Rob! Check with rockmp, I think he has a 1" scwd that he is parting with.

[StevenSeas]

This is why I love doing build threads....you guys catch everything.

That's a great, inexpensive idea! I think I will add it to the list. If I understand correctly I can just plumb it after my return pump and it will alternate the water flow from either end? FYI: I'll be using hoses from the in sump return pump and back up to two return drilled holes at the bottom of the tank.

Hoses should work perfectly fine with the scwd, maybe a little atlering but not much. And yes you plumb it after your return either in the stand area before the tank or in the overflow. yes it will alternate flow from either end, the faster your pump the faster the switching. since it is mechanical you will lose some flow due to inefficency but just upsize some or get some cheap flow accel for 20 bucks that up your flow by 400x w/o really pumping more water. Awesome little devices those are took me like 5 min to understand how it works, whoever designed it is a genius

[Mr Cob]

Thanks Jesse and Steven. Appreciate it.

[hobogato]

+1 on the flow accelerators, they really work well

[Europhyllia]

My new temp tank came with SQWD plumbing and I thought it was pretty cool. :D

[Mr Cob]

+1 on the flow accelerators, they really work well

Can you point me in the right direction to read info about them? I got mixed results from Google. Thanks, Ace.


My new temp tank came with SQWD plumbing and I thought it was pretty cool. :D

The 75g right? I'm assuming it had one coming from the return pump that lead to 2 returns? Does it make a wave at all? What kind of flow are you getting from it and what type of return pump are you using? I'm also assuming you have the 3/4" one? Would you consider adding one or 2 of the 1" ones on your new tank?

Thanks.

[Europhyllia]

for the 75g it uses a mag 9.5
That does not make a wave, just alternating currents
I don't think I will do one on my 215 but keep in mind I only use a syncra 5 on that big tank but 4 Vortechs will be in wave mode so I figure I wouldn't need a SQWD in addition to the Vortech wave.
It is my impression that for wave action you got to time it just right (possible with vortechs and waveboxes but to the best of my knowledge just random with the SQWD. Not a SQWD techie though so I could be wrong on that.)

[hobogato]

Can you point me in the right direction to read info about them? I got mixed results from Google. Thanks, Ace.


nope, just personal experience. when i switched from the normal locline round nozzles to the flow accellerators, the amount of flow increased quite a bit. i was very skeptical, but pleasantly surprised. for example, the nozzle facing the front of the tank is about mid tank and points up toward the corner. with the standard nozzle, the flow pushed up about 1/4" thru the surface of the water. now, with the flow attachments it is about 3/4" or more and a larger area of water surging upward.

[Mr Cob]

Thanks for the input both of you. It helps tremendously.

[Mr Cob]

After much thought I will be bringing the foam out through the frag racks to make them solid and hold them in place. Near the front of the tank the foam will drop off into a couple inch sand bed to display a few clams....almost as if the entire "frag display" fades into a glimpse of a reef.

I think adding a couple of clams and sand in the front will add to the aesthetics of the tank and complete the look I’m going for. It should help turn the “frag display” into an actual display. Maybe I’m being too much of a visionary here, but you should see it in my head…looks real cool! LOL!

Here's my new layout from topdown:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1337/4730594360_e65c529e8e_b.jpg

[Mr Cob]

Note for myself.

Drain holes: 2 x 1"
Return holes: 2 x 3/4"

...all in one peninsula overflow.

[allan]

Ace,

Do you remember the cat that you got the accellarators from? He may have the ordering location. I wouldn't mind replacing my current nozzels with the accellerators.

[Mr Cob]

^Same here.

I found some online for about $18 + shipping. If I have two dual returns I think I might make two of them regular and two accelerators to mix it up.

[hobogato]

yep, it was bernie (lt1z28)

here is a pic of the flow of one output breaking the surface - 1300gph pump with accelerators on each of two outputs (end of the nozzle is at least 16" away)
http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c329/hobogato/DSC06820800x600.jpg

[Mr Cob]

^I like mucho. Gonna get some for my 144 too. Thx for posting Ace.

[Mr Cob]

Picked up a SCWD and 175w MH retro setup from Mark today (Thanks man)....have 4 LED PowerBrite modules for this setup along with 4 x 24w retro T5's (thx Steven). All I need now is the tank and another 175w retro setup.

And.........the custom frag racks are coming along. Got a progress pic today and I'm super stoked!!! Each individual rack will hold 108 frags for a total of 648 frags for the entire frag rack! Lovin it.

Here are some pics....
87058702870687048703

[Europhyllia]

fragaholic...
;)

[allan]

Awesome dude

On a side note, found the accelerator nozzle in one of the lfs, 38 bones plus.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Mr Cob]

Karin....I can't wait! My plan is to have backups of every single coral I have. After the backups are met, and as they grow then they will be also be fragged. The third frags and + will be traded and or taken to LFS for store credit. It's unavoidable that some will be sold too....but my intentions are not to make this a profit type tank. I really just want to showcase fragging.

Allan, thanks man, I found the nozzles online for $20. I will be buying 4 total (so the significant cost difference will probably keep me online even though I prefer to buy from our sponsors) ....two for this tank and two for my 144...but that will be the last items that I buy, also want another SCWD for the 144, but I have plenty of time for those...someone might see this and also offer a trade before then too.

[StevenSeas]

So I take it that you like the scwd? Hope those lights work well for you, I never had any problems with them. Your corals look awesome too btw thanks

[Mr Cob]

So I take it that you like the scwd? Hope those lights work well for you, I never had any problems with them. Your corals look awesome too btw thanks

Yes, well, I haven't used it yet...so, I think I like it. Seems it's the next best thing for changing up the flow in a tank if you can't have a wavebox. The lights will be perfect and I'm so glad you are happy with the corals. :)

[Mr Cob]

About to be really stoked!

Picking up my tank today!

:photo:

[justahobby]

Awesome dude! I am making a trip down there today, maybe I will see ya there!

[kkiel02]

Man you got your tank quick! Are you setting this up at the new place or at your current house?

[Mr Cob]

Awesome dude! I am making a trip down there today, maybe I will see ya there!

Cool, I'm waiting for the boys to wake up from their naps! lol, like the only time I have ever wanted them to hurry up.


Man you got your tank quick! Are you setting this up at the new place or at your current house?

Yeah, I'm pretty excited about it. They told me 4 weeks and it was right at 2.5 weeks!!! Placed the order on June 23rd!!! I still need to make a couple of more payments on the stand and canopy since it came in so early but the tank is coming home today :) and I will start working on my mods. The plan is to set everything up at the new place Aug 1st. We move Sept 1st. I will start breaking down the 144 and moving into the new tank the last week in August.

[Mr Cob]

http://www.maast.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=8775&d=1278808421


http://www.maast.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=8776&d=1278808450


http://www.maast.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=8777&d=1278808452


http://www.maast.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=8778&d=1278808456

[Europhyllia]

That's amazing! How do you like it?

[Mr Cob]

So...I absolutely love this tank. Only thing I would have done different is requested the use of black tape on the seams. But....not a big deal. I love everything else though. The custom over-sized overflow rocks and the stand height is PERFECTO!

[Mr Cob]

What a great day....I also got an update on the frag racks...they should be complete in the next couple of days and shipped....

8779

[Europhyllia]

Very excited for you! You must have done something right. I paid for everything in full 6 weeks ago and probably will be waiting another 2 weeks before it's here.
:(
Hopefully it will be my last tank for a decade though so what;s another couple of weeks.
Clearly photo updates are needed! Or are you waiting to set it up in the new house?

[Mr Cob]

Yes, I won't be setting it up until I get into the new house but as I make mods to it I will continue to take progress pics. Super impressed with how fast I got this thing. Chris is the man! : )

[Mr Cob]

Justin...thanks for helping me unload the tank! I never would have thought it would be so heavy! I used to move my 75g around like it was nothing.

[jesserettele]

Awesome setup Rob! Can't wait to see updates!

[SoLiD]

Flow Accelerator from Aquacave.com (http://www.aquacave.com/flow-accelerator-withbr12--34-or-1-mpt-fitting-brapprox-65-long-1684.html)

[Mr Cob]

Thanks Jesse, I can't wait to get it set up.

David, that's where I was planning to purchase them.

[jesserettele]

how are things coming? Are you foaming soon?

[Mr Cob]

how are things coming? Are you foaming soon?

Thanks for asking. I'm waiting to foam until the frag racks are here. I'm thinking about foaming parts of the racks so that they are one with the foam....not sure yet. Need to see the racks first and get a better idea of what I'm working with.

[Mr Cob]

UPDATE: ...we don't have to move.

So now I'm really stoked about this tank because I will get to set it up as a frag tank from the get-go!

Should have some more pics soon....

[txav8r]

WOOHOO!!!! My buddy isn't moving away from me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Mr Cob]

WOOHOO!!!! My buddy isn't moving away from me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Haha, I told my wife... "babe, I can't leave Jack". lol

[Mr Cob]

Racks should be sent out tomorrow. Can't wait!

8835

[jesserettele]

very clean looking, can't ait for updated pics.

[Mr Cob]

Frag racks are complete and were sent out...


885488538855

[txav8r]

Those look nice!
How did the sumps work out?

[Mr Cob]

Those look nice!
How did the sumps work out?

Thanks, Jack. I love the sumps. Can't wait to get them in use. Have to set aside some time to switch out the sump on the 144g.

The one for this tank will be set up in the next couple of weeks. Juggling time as you know has been difficult around my house lately.

Thanks so much for coming over and hooking me up! Raquel was super blessed too for knocking out the projects I have not been able to do. I owe you one....or many.

[txav8r]

You don't owe me a thing! I had a blast doing it!
I'm just glad I could help out.

[BIGBIRD123]

Frag racks are complete and were sent out...


885488538855

Wow, those look better than most stores...can't wait to see them full of frags...

[Mr Cob]

Thanks, Steve. I'm pretty excited about them. Can't wait to get this tank up and running.

[Mr Cob]

I have had a couple of people ask to watch me foam this one. I plan to foam this tank next weekend.

Sunday Aug. 8th. at 1pm.

Anyone that wants to come by and watch just send me a PM. My garage is hot so don't plan to be comfortable. Also...plan to leave the curse words at your house. My 3 y/o son Zion might be outside helping too.

I will be foaming the back of this tank along with part of the sides and bottom. I will also be foaming a little thicker than I normally would because my intentions are a little different. As zoas and corals grow on the foam they will be fragged and pulled from the foam as needed. In a display tank I would use much less foam and even distress it to keep it from bubbling up. I will also be mounting black flexible PVC tubes in the foam to hold both coco worms and frags. The parts on the bottom that I don't foam will be filled with sand to display clams and scollies. The frag racks will also be partially foamed to provide a more clean look.

This could end up looking like a real mess or hopefuly it will come up looking as I see it in my head....who knows....

[justahobby]

They look great! can't wait to see them in person!

[Mr Cob]

Thanks, Justin. You should see the ones Jack created recently with Allan. Pretty impressive.

[allan]

Nothing like yours Ron, first rate rack there.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Europhyllia]

well how come there's no thread to show those off?

Rob, get going already. I want to see updates :)

[ErikH]

Rule number one, never say PERFECTO in a thread as awesome as this! LOL

Looks way way sa-weet! Can't wait to see the foam on this one with the lessons learned etc from your first one (which is awesome, by the way)

[Mr Cob]

well how come there's no thread to show those off?

Rob, get going already. I want to see updates :)

I lost all motivation after watching your thread. :hypnotyized:


Rule number one, never say PERFECTO in a thread as awesome as this! LOL

Looks way way sa-weet! Can't wait to see the foam on this one with the lessons learned etc from your first one (which is awesome, by the way)

Hey...thanks Erik!


Nothing like yours Ron, first rate rack there.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Thanks, Albert. :Timeout:

[Europhyllia]

I lost all motivation after watching your thread. :hypnotyized:

sorry. I know, I know ... too many updates on my thread. But I love updates. From anybody. So post some!

[Mr Cob]

sorry. I know, I know ... too many updates on my thread. But I love updates. From anybody. So post some!

no...no...no...I mean YOUR TANK IS SO AWESOME, it made me just want to give up! LOL! I love all the updates...come on now...you know we hit the refresh button or <New Posts> button every five minutes waiting for something, anything. lol

[txav8r]

...come on now...you know we hit the refresh button or <New Posts> button every five minutes waiting for something, anything. lol

You wait a whole 5 minutes?:hypnotyized:

[Mr Cob]

....I'm moving the foaming event to when Jack gets back in town. He was one of the ones that requested to watch and since only one person has confirmed to come by I'd rather move it to when the people that asked about it can attend.

So, I'll be foaming on Sunday, Aug. 8th 1pm.

Thanks.

[ismvel]

Hey Rob, i think i'd like to attend if you don't mind having an extra body there.

[Mr Cob]

Awesome. All are welcome. I'll mark you down.

[txav8r]

Sorry to make y'all wait on me. It's not by choice. I promice...

[Mr Cob]

Frag racks are here.....not happy.

Pics later.

[Europhyllia]

oh oh...

[litenyaup]

please call me....email sent to you.

[Mr Cob]

Was so excited to get home today to check out my new racks....well the box stopped me in my tracks real fast. Why can't stuff just be teleported?

Fortunately insurance was purchased and he said he will take care of it.

....But, I really just wanted my racks!

Here's some pics:
89238924892589268927

[litenyaup]

yes i am very sorry for the way the items were handled in transit, this issue will be resolved!

[Europhyllia]

that sucks. sorry. good thing you postponed the foam party anyway!

[txav8r]

Are those tears I see on the box?!

Dude, that box looks like it got hit by a bus! Hope it all works out...

[jesserettele]

I think Jim Carry is working for your transit company.........

Man, that stinks but glad to hear that you have them being replaced.

See you in a week and a half, I'm ready for foam.

[Mr Cob]

Thanks for the comments.

The box was really unbelievable. Holes everywhere....it was practically crushed, I knew that it wasn't going to be good when I opened it.

I filed the claim to USPS, the package was insured but I'm not sure where or what that will leave me with in regards to racks, I need to foam next Sunday as planned....so I may have to improvise with the broken racks.

My box was in this truck:
http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSowrQ2EmdkHSdjx6lWp3AcPgumFJW3c aDl4GnYpvpIyiYY7w4&t=1&usg=__6-mFDWnKVP6CPhdmj7X2I9sev2Q=

[RayAllen]

Sorry to see this Rob. I can see that the builder wants to resolve the issue which is awesome. Good luck on what you decide to do.

[justahobby]

That stinks man.

[Mr Cob]

Doesn't look like I will be getting new racks. So...the show most go on.

I picked up the following from Regal:

Weldon #4 - $6.50
Plasticator (to apply the weldon 4) - $4.95
Weldon #16 - $3.50

Total $16.16

Will take some pics of the repair this weekend and as planned have everything ready for foam next Sunday.

[jesserettele]

So the builder didn't resolve the issue?

[Europhyllia]

I bet it will work out better than expected. Ace just glued my sump with that weld on stuff and it looks great.

[Mr Cob]

His options for me were:

1) send it back for a refund - (leaves me without racks and puts me where I started over a month ago)
2) send more money to keep the broken racks - (puts me out more money, plus I still need to spend money to repair them)

I didn't choose either option. I chose... my own option:

A) Send me new racks and I will send the broken racks back along with the remaining balance. Considering the time it took me to get these racks when it was only supposed to be about a week after sending the $55 down payment I refuse to assume anymore risk on this transaction.

New racks are not an option....so I will live with the broken racks and make them work on my own time and dime.

BUILDER: Please do not respond to this thread. My build thread is not the place for you to justify your actions. I wish to remain peaceful and move on. Thank you.

[ismvel]

Doesn't look like I will be getting new racks. So...the show most go on.

I picked up the following from Regal:

Weldon #4 - $6.50
Plasticator (to apply the weldon 4) - $4.95
Weldon #16 - $3.50

Total $16.16

Will take some pics of the repair this weekend and as planned have everything ready for foam next Sunday.
Hey Rob, why the 16, if you have the 4?

[Mr Cob]

because there are chips of acrylic missing, so after I use the 4 to piece it all back together I will fill in the missing acrylic chips with the 16 since it is much thicker.

The box had holes in it so I guess some of the acrylic decided to get off before the final stop...lol.

[jesserettele]

Thanks for your honest feedback Rob. I agree with your last comment too.

I bet you will get the racks looking great. Do you have any test pieces you can practice the weld on with? I have a few if you would like to have them. I also have plenty of weld on 4 and applicators, if you need more or something.

A tip that I learned was make sure you put the cap back on the applicator right after using/applying weld on or the needle will get clogged up. If it does get clogged up try to use a lighter or mini torch to heat the needle to try an loosen the weld on before pitching the applicator. Hope this helps a little.

[Mr Cob]

Great info. Thanks for the tips Jesse and offer. Good to know I have some options if I need some kind of help when my man Jack is out of town...lol!

The tips will help a ton. I hadn't thought of practicing. I have some spare acrylic that I will practice on first.

[Mr Cob]

Repair of frag fracks....

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4135/4848747146_d173cef361.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4142/4848745258_8a331652d0_z.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4138/4848121205_4a203b3eab_z.jpg

[Mr Cob]

Weldon 4 application (used the 4 to piece everything back together.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4102/4848741158_8917f7cbe3.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4136/4848740486_772b754a4b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4116/4848743792_a4d0eb88c0.jpg

The fact that the legs were bent first before snapping and cracking the acrylic, it made it difficult to fit back together. You can see below that the entire structure is now lopsided and I basically had to hold pieces together for 15 minutes or more until the bond was secure....a real pain to say the least.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4077/4848743118_18737c6f28.jpg

[Mr Cob]

Weldon 16 application....had to use a lot of this stuff because pieces/chips of the acrylic were missing and most of the corners did not go back together "snug" or perfectly.

This first one came out the worst...mainly because the legs were bent and I could not get a flush fit. The slivers of acrylic that were missing didn't help much either.
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4082/4848117969_2237eb5cfb_z.jpg

Another corner that was missing some acrylic, but I was able to get a flush fit so it came out nice. Only problem with using so much of the #16 is it easily bubbles up as seen below.
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4100/4848117279_ccee9c661e.jpg

Completed racks...

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4122/4848746294_5eb9ae2412.jpg

from a distance they look great....but up close it's easy to see the imperfections....kind of annoying for someone who likes things perfect especially when going out of my way to pay for something custom made. But, I'm happy and glad to be moving on to the next step.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4079/4848123963_240af34781.jpg

Here they are in place.
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4134/4848120051_a75c43198c_z.jpg

[Mr Cob]

FYI




So, I'll be foaming on Sunday, Aug. 8th 1pm.



I'll be foaming the bottom this week so that the racks will be set into place for placing the tank on it's back and foaming the background on the 8th. If interested in coming by Sunday just send me a PM and I'll send you my address.

[hobogato]

great job rob, they should work fine

[Europhyllia]

The close ups are bad but for the whole view they actually look very, very snazzy!
How elaborate were you going to foam it?
Any chance you could drape some foam over the corners that need hiding without impeding function?

[ErikH]

Still looks nice buddy. Your foam will make it look awesome.

[Mr Cob]

Thanks Ace, Karin and Erik.

Karin, that's what i was thinking. My plan was to also embed them into the foam to provide more support as well. The two worst corners are positioned so they are against the glass so the foam will help cover them just as you mentioned.

You'll notice from the last pic there is a large gap between both as well, this will be where I have sand and put clams/scollies. The foam will work it's way around the racks and up the sides a bit. I'm hoping it isn't overkill...guess we'll see.

[txg8gxp]

Looks good, I'm glad you were able to get them fixed.

[BIGBIRD123]

Insurance didn't pay for replacing them?

[Mr Cob]

Looks good, I'm glad you were able to get them fixed.

Thank you.


Insurance didn't pay for replacing them?

Not sure yet. He advised me to file the claim but I think he should have filed it because I don't have any receipts. Anyways, I don't think they will approve it anyways because the packing in my opinion was negligent. The box was used in other shipments and the racks were only shipped with balled up newspaper. Not exactly sure how that's supposed to protect anything.

Anyways....I don't care what happens at this point...I'm a movin' on and not looking back....

[FireWater]

Got to see them in person today. Even with the breakage and fixes it all looks great Rob. I am also sure that once you put your artistic touch on the foam it will not be noticeable to anyone.

[Mr Cob]

Good seeing you today John....been too long. Thanks for the compliments.

[txmike]

no pic of foam yet ??i keep looking at this and no update in over 12hrs .

[Mr Cob]

no pic of foam yet ??i keep looking at this and no update in over 12hrs .

LOL! Thanks...I did some foam yesterday on the bottom. I need to have the sides and bottom done by Friday to give it enough time for putting the tank on it's back Sunday for foaming again...BUT I could only find one darn can this weekend! Hope to have some more after work.

[Europhyllia]

LOL
I was wondering how you could hold off on not trying to do at least a teensy weensy little foaming.

[Mr Cob]

Haha...I FIGURED I would just get started on the stuff I won't be able to do on Sunday anyways. Pretty much can only do one piece of glass every 24 hours because the glass has to be horrizontal for the foam to set.

[Mrs. z28pwr]

Wow it looks great Rob! I can't wait to see it foamed:)

[Europhyllia]

Haha...I FIGURED I would just get started on the stuff I won't be able to do on Sunday anyways. Pretty much can only do one piece of glass every 24 hours because the glass has to be horrizontal for the foam to set.
;)
That's exactly what I said about my mortar/rock overflow boxes. Was glad it was the case though because waiting would have been tough. Yay for 3-dimensions! :)

[txmike]

do the flow accelerators work with loc-line stuff?

[Mr Cob]

Good question Mike. I just assumed they would. Guess I'll find out...lol. That will be one of my last purchases though.

Reminder: I'm foaming the back of this tank on Sunday the 8th at 1pm for anyone that wants to come by.

[Mr Cob]

Foaming tomorrow at 1pm.

[BIGBIRD123]

do the flow accelerators work with loc-line stuff?


Yes they do...

[FireWater]

Foaming tomorrow at 1pm.


So, how did it go? I was at class all day so I could not make it. What's it look like? Words are useless - need some pics.

[ismvel]

It was fun, and educational John. Not that I am going to be doing any foaming project. Just wanted to stop by and say what's up and visit. I hadn't seen him since a couple of soccer seasons ago. But he made it seem really simple. At least now, I have the working knowledge of how to do it and get rid of the smooth bubble look and picked up a couple of nice ideas. It was just Jesse, his son, Rob's brother and myself.

Thanks for having me over Rob, and love the half circle. Very good looking tank.

[Jarob]

yes i would like some pictures!! Im thinking of incorporating foam into my new tank

[Mr Cob]

Ismael thanks for coming by, it was good to see you. Jesse I appreciate you and your son coming by as well and taking the time to snap some shots.

Foam...be sure to wear gloves... (Lowes and Home Depot sell this)
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/DSC05282.jpg

Silicone... (Lowes and Home Depot)
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/DSC05283.jpg

A few pieces of rock and rubble to add into the foam...
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/DSC05284.jpg

Some sand/crushed coral to add onto the foam after applying.... (this really helps the coraline algae to take off)
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/DSC05286.jpg

PVC tubes... the cardboard inside each was a bad call and was difficult to remove as the foam was setting. Just add the tubes after the foam starts to dry. (I add these as an easy way for mounting corals)
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/DSC05285.jpg

Tank on its back and ready for jam session...
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/DSC05281.jpg

[Mr Cob]

Apply silicone first (used to keep foam attached to glass and overflow longterm)
my son Zion helping....
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/DSC05290.jpg


Spread silicone around...
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/DSC05291.jpg

Start foaming...
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/DSC05292.jpg

Add a rock and foam around it...this one will act as a little ledge..be sure to distress the foam by moving it around with a stick and popping all the perfect little bubbles...distressing the foam as it rises three or four different times will give you the most realistic look...
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/DSC05295.jpg

Here's what it looks like when the foam is not distressed...
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/DSC05322.jpg

Add sand and move foam around again with hands or a stick...make sure you have gloves on...
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/DSC05324.jpg

[Europhyllia]

Wow! Looks like there's no going back once you start with this! lol

[Mr Cob]

Add some tubes and foam over them...be sure to keep distressing the foam and keep poking a stick through the tubes to keep the foam from covering them up...
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/DSC05304.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/DSC05307.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/DSC05309.jpg

Add sand over the tubes once you foam them again...
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/DSC05319.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/DSC05325.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/DSC05330.jpg

[Mr Cob]

A couple vids...

Foaming:

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/th_MOV05293.jpg (http://s946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/?action=view&current=MOV05293.mp4)


Distressing: (...the cardboard in the tubes did not work...the tubes should be added as the foam is hardening and then foam over them lightly)

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/th_MOV05296.jpg (http://s946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/?action=view&current=MOV05296.mp4)

If any mods know how to embed these vids...please edit my post and do so...I tried and forgot how.

[Europhyllia]

it says the action you tired to perform failed (on the video)

[Mr Cob]

it says the action you tired to perform failed (on the video)

Yeah, adding cardboard inside of the tubes was not a good idea. It was extremely difficult to remove the cardboard as the foam was setting. So, I just pulled all the cardboard out and added the tubes once the foam began to harden and then I foamed over the tubes lightly and just kept pushing the foam back as it would rise and cover the holes of the tubes.

[Mr Cob]

Here's the finished background upright.

I still need to foam the sides and some more on the bottom,

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4134/4875394119_f577d210ec_z.jpg

Closeup of the ledge...
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4079/4875401885_d882d50de3_z.jpg

Closeup of tubes (they all have an open hole on both the top and bottom to prevent detritis build-up)
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4122/4876012950_4844f17720_z.jpg

[ismvel]

Something to note that he mentioned yesterday and I don't see in here:

This stuff starts to harden fairly quickly, so if you are doing a decent size tank, work in sections, and make sure you keep an eye on it as you continue, this stuff continued to rise for over an hour after initial application.

[Europhyllia]

looks great.
do you feel a little better about the racks now? They look really good now with the foam background

[Mr Cob]

Thanks Ismael.

Yes Karin, I'm much happier and once I cover up the corners on the racks I will be even happier. The foam will creep up the sides and take the outline of the racks.

[jesserettele]

Thanks for letting us stop by and watch the foam background pro in action! I feel more confident for my foaming project next week with all your tips.

Sorry for the out of focus photos (the sony cybershot cam has been in my daughters purse for a few months)

Here are the videos, hope these work;

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/th_MOV05293.jpg (http://s946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/?action=view&current=MOV05293.mp4)

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/th_MOV05296.jpg (http://s946.photobucket.com/albums/ad302/Jesserettele/foam%20back%20ground%20aquascaping/?action=view&current=MOV05296.mp4)

[Mr Cob]

Right on Jesse. Thanks, it was fun. Ismael even showed me how to use those stupid silicone guns...haha!

[txav8r]

Looks great Rob! Glad a few people got to come by and get a few pointers from you. Wish I could have made it :(

[ismvel]

Right on Jesse. Thanks, it was fun. Ismael even showed me how to use those stupid silicone guns...haha!


Sure was, and I sure did, which brought us all to ponder on the ultimate question of....How in the world you get your 144 g tank siliconed?????

That was too funny, thanks Ethan.

[Mr Cob]

Haha...well...that was when I used the tubes of aquarium sealant...ummm at $8 a pop for a little tube it became kind of costly!

[FireWater]

Looks great Rob. Can't wait to see the sides done. Going to look awesome when it's done and has some lucky frags in it.

[txg8gxp]

Look very cool. I don't think I have ever seen a frag tank that is going to look so nice...Now I want to foam something.....

[Mr Cob]

Thanks Guys...I'm pretty anxious about it all. I didn't want to say anything until everything was a done deal, but we signed a lease at a new place last week so this tank will be used for it's initial purpose of housing my half circle corals for the move. I already have the keys but we are having some tile installed in place of carpet so once that is done the tank will be set up and start cycling before the transfer. Hoping to have it in the new house by Sept. 1st. We'll see though.

I think I still have too many corals and plan to get rid of some more pieces so that they will all fit in this tank considering I have large frag racks in there now. Getting hard to decide what corals need to go because I'm getting down to just favorite pieces.

[Mr Cob]

Tried getting a decent shot straight on...kind of difficult with my phone.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4097/4877602412_77b490246a_z.jpg

[txmike]

let me know if you need more space as i have a empty 125rr and you are more then welcome to use .

[Mr Cob]

let me know if you need more space as i have a empty 125rr and you are more then welcome to use .


Too cool of you Mike! Thank you. With that said, I will not stress on getting rid of anymore coral, I'll let you know how it goes...will be a couple of weeks though.

[txmike]

no big just let me know .

[justahobby]

Great thread! Looks like you did another outstanding foam job Rob. Sorry I missed it.

[Mr Cob]

Great thread! Looks like you did another outstanding foam job Rob. Sorry I missed it.

Thanks bro! Jesse was so kind to take pics and vid...so that you all wouldn't miss anything. Was good times. Those pics you sent me of the fish you caught at the coast were cool too!

[Jarob]

Oh man that looks amazing!! How long do you let it cure for and then do you soak it or rinse it first? Does the foam make it cycle longer or can you just add stuff with your previous water and LR?

[Mr Cob]

Oh man that looks amazing!! How long do you let it cure for and then do you soak it or rinse it first? Does the foam make it cycle longer or can you just add stuff with your previous water and LR?

Thanks, Jarob. I let it cure for 5-7 days before I let water touch it....but I have seen people only wait 48hours. It's inert so it does not soak in water or release any toxins. It does nothing for or against a cycle. I do rinse it, but not purposely...when I do a water test it gets rinsed. No need though because it's inert.

[Third Coast Tropical]

Love the frag racks.

[Mr Cob]

Picked up the stand today (THX Jack for helping me unload it) and completed the foam on the right side.

I could not be happier with the height of the stand. The bottom of the tank sits exactly 40" off the ground and there is a 2" lip around the bottom frame. I was a little bummed I didn't spend the extra money to go 48" but now that it's in the house...I'm glad I did not go any higher. I can reach into the tank without a step stool. It's perfect.
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4142/4909617298_cca6e7cda6.jpg



http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4095/4909619012_0d723cccc6.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4138/4909026153_3e64eb769b.jpg

[Mr Cob]

Foaming sides and bottom...

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4081/4909625886_49e487f11f.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4139/4909031037_765a167389.jpg

looking from side
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4082/4909627122_23e511ff6f.jpg


http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4137/4909629814_ecfdaee508.jpg

Still need to foam the left side...
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4076/4909631858_6fa37d7172.jpg

Plug holes in action...
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4079/4909036033_a373c1bb02_z.jpg

[Mr Cob]

Note: The foam looks ugly on the side (looking at the foam on the glass), which I was afraid of.....but it looks really cool looking in from the side. So, got some trade off there.

You can see what I mean from this shot...
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4082/4909627122_23e511ff6f.jpg

[hobogato]

man, that is one heck of a frag tank!!

[Mr Cob]

Thanks Ace! But it's not a "frag tank", it's a "DISPLAY frag tank". lol

[Europhyllia]

very nice stand too :)

[FireWater]

Thanks Ace! But it's not a "frag tank", it's a "DISPLAY frag tank". lol

It's all in the key describing words. Came out looking great Rob. As for the foam not looking good on the sides I really don't see the issue. It shows how everything goes together and you can then really see the process. Kind of like looking from the ground up.


On a side note - where did you get the acrylic frag plugs?

[Mr Cob]

Thanks John. I have been holding off on foaming the other side because I wasn't 100% about keeping the sides foamed...but what the heck...I like your perspective.

I picked up the acrylic frag plugs from TT. They carry a couple bags from time to time. I normally order them online because it's hit or miss at the LFS.

[FireWater]

I need to score some of those. I tried to make my own and wasn't happy with the turn out.

[Mr Cob]

Tank is finished and in place. Just need to add plumbing, equipment and canopy.

Jack came by this weekend and implemented his Vinyl background idea. I must say I'm super impressed with the quality and end product. It looks great and NO BUBBLES! Much better solution than the aquarium backgrounds and solutions sold.

Window Film Application Solution:

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4146/5009218626_9b27e2a48f.jpg

Blue and Black Vinyl:

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4131/5009245678_1f70b4df01.jpg

Side applied and you can see the nasty back of the foam, I wanted to apply the background to the back glass to prevent light from shining through the foam and to cover the glass in the overflow.

The concept on the sides is to cover the nasty foam back on the glass and to add a nice blue around the foam. The blue is also covered with black for aesthetics outside the tank.


http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4108/5008598099_6fd2f762ff.jpg


http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4124/5009227271_709ac7a199.jpg

Jack earning that money $... well ok, I didn't pay him so he's just seen donating his time here. I put this guy to work every time he comes over : )

...can also see Brian the contractor putting trim back on walls/floors...
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4128/5008929313_54cbfc7da6.jpg

Smooth bubbles out...

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4086/5009230297_fa6a6d785c.jpg

Black side applied...

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4085/5009231835_0cc860758e.jpg



AND NOW for the major let down.... I FORGOT TO take pics of the inside and finished product...HELLO!:lightbulb:

So...here's a teaser shot:

Jack cut this hole... in the stand...also see the pretty new floors... and pretty freshly painted walls in the new place...can't wait to move in :)
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4128/5009227087_87277dd3ca.jpg

...but I'm proud to say that it was with my Jig Saw that has a cool lazer and cuts angles...lol, yes, I'm a computer guy with little "tool" knowledge, but I have a great friend called Jack who is always so kind to help out.

Thanks, Jack!

So...what did I do? Well my wife conned me into painting a section of wall in the laundry room that she couldn't reach from HER project...and it turned into the entire room! :)

[txav8r]

Total out of pocket expense to Rob was a 10 Chicken McNugget combo and a bottle of water... Oh, and a basket ball goal! er... and a RODI system that he dug out of the trash, and... um.... a tunze ATO.... oh there was also the bucket of freshwater substrate for my betta tank. Hmmm... Come to think of it, I believe I overcharged you!
Oops, I also forgot the HOB skimmer. Man, You got ripped off!!!
LOL

I think it came out great! I'm surprised no one else has thought of that.

[Mr Cob]

HAHA! We both made out!!

[Mr Cob]

Updated pics...


http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4145/5039308542_db9c97976b.jpg


http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4146/5039314416_fe70032983.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4092/5038699705_f805942894.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4107/5038703429_8e97fcba2f.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4133/5038708045_705a55925a.jpg

I have two Megaflow plumbing kits coming in on Friday and I'll be ready for water! Can't wait!

[Europhyllia]

looks great. and water- exciting!

[Jarob]

Rob that looks so awesome!! You have such good patience, thats gotta be killing you sitting there empty! I used your foaming technique on my new 40 breeder and was a little skeptical before I put water in it, I thought it looked too fake.. BUT now that water and rock are in there and some corals are in the foam it looks AWESOME!!! I cant imagine how awesome it will look once its established too! Also good idea going with a taller stand, I built mine 44" tall and couldnt be happier, you should check it out on my 40breeder journal.

Also do you think a SCWD would mess with my Vortechs ability to make a wave?

[Pennies2Cents]

That looks nice Rob.. :) Jack thats some good work as well.

[Mr Cob]

Thanks for the comments everyone.

Jarob, Yes, I think a SCWD would mess with the vortech...but I have never had a vortech so I don't know. We can trade if you like...lol off to go check out your 40 breeder...

[ErikH]

Hey Rob, that looks really slick! You outdid yourself on that thing man! Way to go!!

[Big_Pun]

[QUOTE=
Also do you think a SCWD would mess with my Vortechs ability to make a wave?[/QUOTE]

i had my vortech making a wave with 2 koralia evo 1400's running

[Mr Cob]

Hey Rob, that looks really slick! You outdid yourself on that thing man! Way to go!!

Thanks man! I think I accomplished the "must look nice" quote from my wife when I told her...I mean asked her about setting up a frag tank. Took a lot of coral to pay for that thing! Wait....so.... I sold my half circle and most of my corals for a frag tank...shoot....now I don't have any frags to put in it. ~ DOH!


i had my vortech making a wave with 2 koralia evo 1400's running

^there you go Jarob. Best thing about the SCWD is if it doesn't work... it takes 1 minute to remove it and replace it with some pvc.

[z28pwr]

Looks great Rob. I love the depth.

[Mr Cob]

Thanks, Jose! Shoot...coming from a 600g guy that means a lot! :)

I must be a dork...all day I have been anxiously awaiting a call saying my Megaflow kits are in. Well they are in and I couldn't be more excited. Headed to LFS to pick them up in a bit. 2 kits, both are dual.

Oh... and I picked up a dual locline for the 55g and stared at it for like 2 hours on the couch....my wife kept making faces at me as I was squeking it into all kinds of positions....trying to get the perfect angle. lol!

Locline i$ cool.

[txav8r]

HAhahaha! I can see the look on her face!

[txg8gxp]

hahahahaha....

[Mr Cob]

Installed the kits....

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4154/5043018063_2222c6c7c0.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4144/5043023453_c487e2c073.jpg



http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4148/5043654778_01804abb43.jpg

I cut them down as much as I could....but I'm thinking they need to be shorter (intakes...return lines fit perfect)...any thoughts? See below.... (being that my tank is shallow...only 17" I'm thinking these kits are made for more standard sized tanks...)

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4086/5043660520_775d74d7f5.jpg

[jesserettele]

looks like things are coming along nicely! Is there water in the near forecast? There is a drought in my tank still..........

[Mr Cob]

looks like things are coming along nicely! Is there water in the near forecast? There is a drought in my tank still..........

Jesse....my brotha....was wondering what happened to you. Dude....if I had a nice plumbing job like your 75g I would never put anything it. It would just have water and I would just stare at all of the PVC. Who needs coral and fish when you have some sweet plumbing?

Well...I got the 55 holding tank up and running this weekend so next is this tank. In the next week it will have water. Jack is helping me since my ro is not up yet. I put the order in for the canopy this past week....so will be a couple of weeks for that. I had order things over time due to $ constraints.

Anyways....will be salty soon.

[Mr Cob]

Got the kits cut....started adding water....and dab-num-it if it didn't start leaking from the bulkheads....argh....was a mess.

Fortunately the sump is directly below the bulkheads so it wasn't too bad. The lesson I learned here is be sure to cut your stand wide enough for your bulkheads so you have room to tighten them properly with a bulkhead wrench. One drain still has a tiny leak and I can't seem to get it tight enough so I need to pick up a large wrench after work today.

Fun. Pics when I have time.

[Europhyllia]

ugh. I am getting ready to redo my plumbing under the 215 -scary.
Hope you get the leak fixed right away

[Gseclipse02]

Got the kits cut....started adding water....and dab-num-it if it didn't start leaking from the bulkheads....argh....was a mess.

Fortunately the sump is directly below the bulkheads so it wasn't too bad. The lesson I learned here is be sure to cut your stand wide enough for your bulkheads so you have room to tighten them properly with a bulkhead wrench. One drain still has a tiny leak and I can't seem to get it tight enough so I need to pick up a large wrench after work today.

Fun. Pics when I have time.


if you bend the bulk head wrech like a 90 degree it makes it easier for those tight spots

[roscozman]

I always add just a cup of water in the overflow to make sure it does not leak.

[Mr Cob]

I always add just a cup of water in the overflow to make sure it does not leak.

I so wish I would have done that!!! Definitely top of my list next time around along with cutting the wood large enough to wrap a wrench around the bulkheads. Three are good to go...just one with a tiny drip that follows the return line into the fuge...lol.

JT...I have hit these bulkheads at every angle imaginable and I have raw knuckles to prove it!

Karin...when I heard water gushing through the bottom I knew it wasn't coming out the drain lines and into the sump...I thought to myself."..ummm that doesn't sound like it's going into the sump." lol!

I HATE PLUMBING of any sort! Just ask Giau!

I like Jesse's plumbing though....but I would never tackle it.

[aquasport24]

You can use a flat tip screwdriver and something solid like a hammer. Place the flat tip on the bulkhead and tap it until it tighten up.

[aquasport24]

And make sure you have it parrallel to the tank just incase it slip on you.

[Mr Cob]

And make sure you have it parrallel to the tank just incase it slip on you.

Ahh man...you just ruined my chance of trying this! Lol! I read your suggestion and thought "...nice Giau...I can do that...good thinking man, great idea!"

...and then.....I read your next post.

[jesserettele]

Thanks Rob, I used sch 80 bulkheads where I was going to foam over and around the bulk heads to decrease any possible leaks. I also add 100% silicone grease (electrical grease) to my bulk head flange gaskets front and back before installing them. This helps get a better seal and allow you to more easily tighten the bulk head flange nut. I think it also reduces the chances of the gasket wrinkling behind the bulk head flange which can create a leak.

On another note, I am foaming this weekend and am more scared of foaming than cutting and drilling glass. :hypnotyized:

Can't wait to see your setup, thanks for the updates!

[Mr Cob]

Foam away bro! (jesse)

My tiny leak stop leaking. I implemented Giau's idea....but it still left a tiny drip leak that has stopped. Not sure that's anything to be confident about but I don't see water so I'm happy and went with the green light.

I must say that I really like the SCWD....I can only imagine how happy I would be with a wavemaker of some sort....but this will do for now...

Pics...

SCWD:
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4084/5079414959_53870d2353.jpg

Flow coming from the left...
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4006/5079431585_5ff9492120_z.jpg

...and flow coming from the right 5 seconds later:
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4005/5080016614_00ed53d68e_z.jpg

bulkhead on the left is the problem child...
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4026/5079409557_c783a46ba0_z.jpg

[txg8gxp]

Nice pics.

[FireWater]

When we adding frags to it?

I need to do some trimming.

[jrsatx20]

once the salt creep fills the void it wont leak dont worry bout it

[Mr Cob]

Thanks, Stephen....John, gonna let it cycle until November since I did not use a whole lot of established water. Majority of it was new (thx Jack).

Here's my stubby durso pipes after the mods:

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4127/5079537561_438e59f590.jpg

and the stand... I still need to do some cable management but I'm waiting until I get the canopy and install the lights.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4086/5079536265_bed7e06210_z.jpg

[Mr Cob]

once the salt creep fills the void it wont leak dont worry bout it


Well I guess that's what happened since it's no longer leaking :) whatever works right!?!!!

[ErikH]

NOICE!

[Mr Cob]

Thanks, Erik.

No more leaks so I'm happy. I also love the SCWD with the exception of the predator noise it makes. lol

[Europhyllia]

the dursos turned out cute!
Glad the leak is gone

[Mr Cob]

thanks Karin...the funny thing is that I ended up raising them up to practically where I had them before the cut...lol

The splashing water in the overflow was annoying me. At least I have room to move adjust it now. The water drop is only about 1/2 an inch now. I know that's not much but I get plenty of aerated water in the sump because the last owner drilled cuts in the teeth but not all of the teeth so in four places the water gushes/races out.

[Mr Cob]

Been up and running for some time now and just got the canopy today along with the installation of the lights.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4056/5165772316_9b1fe7cce3.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1373/5165883762_05897d3120.jpg


blind yah...
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4041/5165279075_2a9aefd082.jpg

I promise it's not this blue....the light reflecting off the blue sides made it difficult to catch a pic with the cell.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4072/5165882498_5c336c60c5.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1212/5165884948_f2723be741.jpg

This one is a little more like the actual lighting...250w MH 20k.
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1229/5165886400_2ef6968af6.jpg

[txg8gxp]

Nice, I can't wait to see it full of frags.

[Mr Cob]

Nice, I can't wait to see it full of frags.

THANKS! me too :P

[Reefer4ever]

Looks great! Can't wait to see it filled up with some great frags!

[Jarob]

god thats cool!

[Europhyllia]

I promise it's not this blue....the light reflecting off the blue sides made it difficult to catch a pic with the cell.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4072/5165882498_5c336c60c5.jpg


This one is a little more like the actual lighting...250w MH 20k.
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1229/5165886400_2ef6968af6.jpg

Oh yeah -that's much less blue! Not! LOL

Looks great. Enjoy :)

[Mr Cob]

LOL KARIN!!!!!!!!! I was waiting for you to catch that....after I posted it I said to myself: "wow, they look the same and Karin is going to catch it!"

HAHA!

thanks, Jarob and Dylan.

[copperband]

Your tank looks amazing! Im sure it will look even better when you fill it up with some nice frags!

[Mr Cob]

^it's full now... it's one of the tanks we are using for the business. looks so cool with all the hundreds of frags on the racks.

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5128/5267202491_f4141a60eb_z.jpg





MODs...can someone move this thread to the Mid sized section? Thanks.

[jrsatx20]

moved.

[Mr Cob]

thanks Ruben.

[RayAllen]

Looks great Rob! Nothing like a good frag display.

[Scream311]

Wow looks FULLER here then in your Last Video. Looking Great Rob

[jesserettele]

^it's full now... it's one of the tanks we are using for the business. looks so cool with all the hundreds of frags on the racks.

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5128/5267202491_f4141a60eb_z.jpg



MODs...can someone move this thread to the Mid sized section? Thanks.


Wow Rob this looks awesome! Great work, the whole thing!

[Mr Cob]

thanks guys. I'm pretty excited about the tank and glad it's finished....well 95% finished. I had to send the canopy doors back to DSA because they were lopsided.

Once we have enough stock tanks for the business this tank will go back to being my personal frag tank. It will hold duplicates from my display tank...which I do not have at the moment...probably be awhile before I start that build.

[Mr Cob]

The 85g is going back to being my personal tank with my personal collection. I ripped out all the frag racks (wasn't fun), syphoned out all the gunk under the racks...filled a nice 5 gallon bucket with brown nasty water and here it is...

Still have some MCC corals in the bare bottom center area and that lrg bnest but just about all gone. Also have had a sump cycling under this tank for a couple of weeks now to prepare for pulling the 220g off line which the 85g is connected to.

Full shots...

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5321/7427339682_f2278fe2f1_c.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7114/7427298634_448597e4bd_c.jpg

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8166/7427331698_ed3772c350_c.jpg


http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8012/7427365248_b1521fdf67_c.jpg

[Mr Cob]

Coral shots...

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5332/7427310660_0cd349c2d6_c.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5464/7427173004_c9372596b4_c.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7113/7427272518_57e3075ed0_c.jpg

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8141/7427402142_8a75b853bb_c.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5455/7427274630_9aff59cce5_c.jpg

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8027/7427392260_7c61213b96_c.jpg

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8002/7427410748_1f82b18626_c.jpg


http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8161/7427374218_79fbabd402_c.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7268/7427370348_0c05313c51_c.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5345/7427376828_7a020c761c_c.jpg

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8157/7427367922_9105d29d75_c.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7258/7427415190_2bbd5f4292_c.jpg



http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7106/7427420762_c684a22cb1_c.jpg

[reefreak]

Wow this tank is beautiful rob!

[Mr Cob]

thanks Jeremy, I can't wait to get the rest of the MCC corals out so I can clean up the look. I will probably pull more of the foam background off as well in order to get more depth when looking at the tank. There's really not much rock in there and tons of swimming room for the fish but you can't tell because of the foam background.

[Mr Cob]

for rock I only have two pillars of about 3 rocks each, one on each side of the tank held up by acrylic rods...

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8024/7427256172_ab0002dfdc_c.jpg

[reefreak]

Nice ill try to Paypal you this weekend for that fire and ice

[Mr Cob]

a few chalices...

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7256/7428916634_dd8d8acf40_c.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5159/7428918548_c7c9ed37e7_c.jpg

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8009/7428929554_5d020be0ac_c.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7248/7428931394_8fc9ed16a3_c.jpg

[Mr Cob]

got those shots from my cell by turning the exposure down to -2.0

[Mr Cob]

Sump cycling... Jack built this sump for me a couple of years ago for my old 55g, it should work nice on this tank. Still need to organize things before I drop the tank to it.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8018/7443404054_53eb2b3964_c.jpg

[hobogato]

very nice rob, i bet it feels good to have a tank that is yours again :)

[Mr Cob]

thanks Ace, and yes it's very refreshing... props to all shop owners, especially owners who farm! Man that's a lot of work.

[RayAllen]

tank looked awesome Rob, stocked full of coral. sweet ft print to

[Mr Cob]

Thx Ray, it was nice talking reef with you...been awhile.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I727 using Tapatalk 2

[ErikH]

About to be really stoked!

Picking up my tank today!

:photo:

GOOD.
I want to see those pics!

[Mr Cob]

lol, dude that post was from years ago.

[Mr Cob]

some actinic shots from this evening...

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7264/7525010738_04006e9b6f_c.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7252/7525039628_bfc0dcf296_c.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7251/7525037348_66c2345d96_c.jpg

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8425/7525036156_bae77955fd_c.jpg

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8015/7525031226_7a6f12ba24_c.jpg

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8281/7525024276_98bbdaecfb_c.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7248/7525016978_9fbf321ef6_c.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7114/7525004450_2e1b96440a_c.jpg

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8026/7525002956_a24df2ce81_c.jpg

[reefreak]

Beautiful corals rob what are you doing for lighting

[Mr Cob]

thanks bro... 2 x 250w MH 20k and 4 PowerBrite LED modules

http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4056/5165772316_9b1fe7cce3_z.jpg

[reefreak]

oh nice i like the way they are built into the canopy

[Mr Cob]

Jeremy...thanks for the Tubbs bro.

Tubbs Blue Zoas:
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8156/7532341568_5409b165bd_c.jpg

Tyree Japonica Cyphastrea:
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8144/7532337234_266c38f7b2_c.jpg

Ultra Green Aussie Torch and Ultra Gold Aussie Torch:
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8005/7532325290_768caed93e_c.jpg

non-Indo Acans: (red and ultra mint)
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8027/7532334180_bc2ddbbec0_c.jpg


I have had this rainbow echinata for several years now but for the last year I cannot seem to get it to rainbow up again:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7133/7532328360_c60f03d5fe_c.jpg

[hobogato]

great pics, please tell me those are not with your phone

[reefreak]

Lol no problem rob ace I am amazed with his cell phone pics

[Mr Cob]

great pics, please tell me those are not with your phone

lol, yup, you can see a little bit of grain in all of the pics from the cell but for the most part they come out pretty good.

[Mr Cob]

Ace, I love that Tyree Japonica Cyphastrea.

[reefreak]

Tubbs are looking good rob

[KING]

what kind of phone u got..lol nice stuff..

[Mr Cob]

It's a Galaxy S2. 8MP Camera. Just have to adjust some of the settings to get the really nice pics with it.

[Mr Cob]

Rasta Zoas:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7252/7536148526_9c65dd23c3_c.jpg

Red Aussie Acan:
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8025/7536140250_6c4e835f36_c.jpg

Prism Favia:
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8284/7536125446_f30e09791a_c.jpg

MCC Deep Water Japs:
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8157/7536122744_f6bc7becea_c.jpg

Lunar Eclipse and Alpha Blondie Paly:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7253/7535979420_d7a4e7d9be_c.jpg

[reefreak]

Love those rastas and Deepwater japs

[Mr Cob]

thx dude, will give you a frag next time we meet up for hooking me up with those tubbs

[Mr Cob]

A few shots from tonight...

Aussie Favia (love the speckles in it)
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7138/7559499524_9be3a79191_c.jpg

Teal Leptastrea (lineage; Ace)
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7258/7559494058_fe9d646acd_c.jpg

Frogspawn (lineage; Regric)
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7119/7559497702_d066b71835_c.jpg

Ultra Green Aussie Torch and Ultra Gold Aussie Torch (i love them)
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7132/7559501344_8115f96411_c.jpg

My all time favorite coral, hands down...love this thing. I'm having to nurse it back from the recent tank move of swapping it from the bottom of a 30" deep 220 under old lights to placing it in the 17" shallow 85g with blazing MH. Normally it's expanded 3 or 4 times this size, I will have to move it more to the left once it starts fully expanding...it will then be too close to the torch corals to the right.
Ultra Neon Aussie Hammer: (did I mention NEON?)
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7139/7559489722_04bca436e5_c.jpg

[hobogato]

nice shots rob

[Mr Cob]

thx Ace... still trying to tear down the 220...been crazy.

Made a little progress today and was able to get the 85g independent of the 220g and dropped it to the sump below.

Still need to get a skimmer...have some store credit at a LFS, that should help. Need to hook up ATO and pull over my probes from the 220.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7128/7566135872_44c175faee_z.jpg
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7130/7566136858_a45325009d_z.jpg

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8434/7566134760_914f5b4a17_z.jpg

[RayAllen]

Lookin sweet rob, im thinking of going a differnt route with my sump to do something similar.

[Mr Cob]

Thanks Ray...That sump has been cycling for about a month now, just sitting and waiting for me to drop the tank to it. Everything seems to be fine and no real changes with the coral as of yet, except for temp but I just countered that with a fan. Taking the 220 off (which I considered to be a chiller) has brought me from 77 to 79 as constant temp without lights. With lights I range about a 2 degree increase.

I also just realized I have like ZERO room for an in sump skimmer. lol I have a good quality HOB skimmer that I got from Justin as a back up skimmer... running in vinegar right now that I'm thinking of running on the sump.

Any suggestions as to whether or not I could do this on an acrylic sump? Will the weight of the skimmer be too much for the sump to handle? Sump is fairly new...Jack made it about a year and half ago and I ran it for 6 months on my old 55g.

[RayAllen]

Rob is there not a way you can plumb a small tank to the sump? Just for the purpose of housing the skimmer. Have Jack or Ace make you a small acrylic cube to sit buy the sump maybe. You could easily drain the sump down a little bit and drill a hole in both the sump and the skimmer box and connect them with a couple of small bulk heads. Walla you would have a extra compartment that runs at the same water level and houses your skimmer.

Just a idea that I think could work if done right.