DSA 185 Neo mixed reef build.

[Scutterborn]

I didn't wanna change the direction of the other thread so I thought I would finally start a pre-build thread. I picked up this tank from a member on ARC and I am, after visiting many members tanks, certain this footprint is perfect for me. My plan is to remove one over flow box and run that side closed loop. I intend to run this tank as a peninsula style with only 1 30" side facing the wall. The remaining overflow will both be drains and external return lines. The rock will a type of mountain ridge / island effect. I am
Attempting to run the tank with no internal powerheads other than the wavebox and closed loop. Basically a super clean natural look.


Dimensions on the tank are 60"X30"X25".

So far my items I've amassed are as follows:
Super reef octo 5000
Eshopps adv-300 sump
Reeflo snapper ext circulation pump (2650gph)
Tunze 6215 full size wavebox
Mag 9.5 (closed loop)
Tunze osmolator
3 250w metal halides with 20k reeflux bulbs. Likely changing to 14k Phoenix
4 54w 48" T5HO ballast/bulbs sets on geismann reflectors
Unknown moonlight set
75g frag tank plumbed into system
2 koralia Evo 1050's
1 koralia Evo 1400


Items still on my list:

200lbs dry BRS "Eco rock"
Live seed rock ( smallish baseball sized bits placed under dry rock )
5lbs Garf grunge split between dsb and DT
48"X12"X12" DSB elevated above the sump to gravity dump into return section.
Custom made top off container in homemade cabinet

I know I'm forgetting things. As of now that is all folks!
Chime in with your ideas and become a part of this build!

Oh yeah, sorry about being so long winded. Lol!

[rrasco]

Rimless?

[Big_Pun]

wouldn't it be easier to just put a large overflow on the 30inch side facing the wall than loosing surface skimming area by downsizing to one over flow. all you would do is drill some holes on other side and have someone build a over flow box. I love my dual over flow all surface scum is sucked down and I get to have two filter socks and two return pumps, so if anything goes wrong I have atleast one functioning overflow/return.

[Scutterborn]

After hearing all the tank cracking stories on MAAST, my wife absolutely refuses to let me put anymore holes in this tank. I've tried explaining to her but she shut down the idea. She already let's me go further than any woman rightly should and I know when no means no with her. Lol!! My original intention was to simply move the removed overflow and re do it on the short side with new holes. We're on the same track here, bro. It is what it is, though.

[Scutterborn]

Rimless?


Not rimless. 3/4" glass all the way around with no center brace.

[ErikH]

Not rimless. 3/4" glass all the way around with no center brace.

"Eurobraced"

Sounds like a cool tank, but no pics, no fun.

[sdunn90fowlr]

Give us some pics to look at. I have that same footprint and love the options it gave me when setting up and aquascaping. Mine, unfortunately has a rather large center brace making it a bit hard to reach the middle of the tank.

[Scutterborn]

http://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-092f-1b9c.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-093b-0be9.jpg

No euro bracing. It's a brick style. Yes, the tank still needs to be cleaned. Yes, I still need to refinish the stand. Yes, my garage is a mess... Lol.

[Kristy]

You snagged a sweet tank there Ben!

I hear what you are saying about the wife's perspective on this, but I will point out that it's a woman's perogative to change our minds, so if for some reason you ever find yourself in search of an overflow that would fit that side, let us know. We have one for you.

[Scutterborn]

Thanks Kristy! I'm still trying to collect as many ideas as I can. Also I forgot to add that I'm completely rebuilding the canopy. This tank should look 200% better in another month.

[Scutterborn]

My original intention was to move both the overflows and drill 3 new holes. The over flows moved to the side would've given me @ a 6" gap between them. That's where I wanted the wavebox to go...

[Scutterborn]

I'm thinking about just building a new stand all together. I really want it to be 8" taller. With the deeper dimensions of the tank, what do y'all think? It would put the top rim of the tank at about 6'. I know it'll make DT maintenance a bit more difficult but it would create a better view.

[rrasco]

I would personally keep it on the mfr built stand. I'd just refinish it.

[Big_Pun]

I hated my 70g when it came time to maintenance or do lil things. the tank was about 27 high and then a 8 inch canopy that the top flipped up. with the rash of tank cracks with DIY stands I would never chance it, but if your set on gettin it higher why not build a platform to put it on

[Mr Cob]

honestly, this is the most enjoyable part of the hobby... "The Build". Fun to watch it all come together. Love the dimensions of the tank.

[rrasco]

honestly, this is the most enjoyable part of the hobby... "The Build". Fun to watch it all come together. Love the dimensions of the tank.

I agree. I think that's a contributor as to why I have so many tanks. Once I'm done building one, what else am I going to do?

[Scutterborn]

I'm not convinced it's an original DSA stand to begin with. I may need to try to bribe Ace to come look at it....

[Scutterborn]

I also forgot to add that, thanks to a smoking hot deal, I picked up the SRO-5000 skimmer from Todd. Thanks again, Buddy. It was great talking with you and Erik today.

[rrasco]

Building a platform for it isn't a bad idea. I'd even consider building a drain into the platform, that way if something ever breaks or leaks, it catches it and diverts it somewhere that won't damage your house.

[Big_Pun]

take some pics of it and hardware(hinges) DSA stands are easy to tell apart from others. I've owned 2 and seen alot from working at lfs's

[Mr Cob]

agree with Chris...have owned 3 counting the one I owned from Chris lol

[ErikH]

Remember, no bath salts in your tank.

Nice to meet you today, enjoy that skimmer, it is a beast!

[Scutterborn]

You are correct, Erik! This thing is a beast!! Here's a pic of the skimmer taking a vinegar bath.

http://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-0dd8-76e7.jpg

Thats a 75g tank for reference. I also used the opportunity to clean up some koralia evo's and my mag 9.5.

http://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-0eac-d29f.jpg

Here's some pics of the stand. It's seen better days.

http://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-0ec6-8f5d.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-0ed3-5a2d.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-0eff-3e65.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-0f14-39cc.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-0f2b-75d6.jpg

Here's the obviously DIY canopy.. not by me

http://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-0f6e-af82.jpghttp://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-0f8b-51d3.jpg

[Big_Pun]

yes that's a DSA stand, definitely. good luck with build

[Scutterborn]

Haven't posted in a bit. Works had me at wits end...

I got one of the overflow boxes pulled today. Wasn't too bad. I was surprised I actually had time to do anything on the tank!
http://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-aea8-cb4b.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-aeb6-b105.jpg

I also pulled the MH reflectors off the canopy in preparation for rebuilding the canopy.
http://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-aecc-2a10.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-aed4-4ccb.jpg

Can't do much until I get the tank off the stand. With the wife on summer break, I have all of her classroom stuff taking up some of my already too small garage. Hopefully next weekend I'll get the tank off the stand and start refinishing it.

I'm also hoping to get my order into BRS for the EcoRock that weekend. It's really buggin me watching this tank just sit....


-Ben-

[Scutterborn]

Let the painting commence!!

I stripped all the old junk outta the inside and sanded it all down. Now I'm letting the first coat dry.

http://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-6fc1-29eb.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-7035-3f70.jpg


- Ben -

[Mr Cob]

Nice work Ben.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I727 using Tapatalk 2

[reefreak]

Looking good ben

[Scutterborn]

http://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-76d1-73c7.jpg

This will actually be the "front". The opposite side is what will be against the wall.

Yes it needs a door handle. Any ideas on what sort of decoration ( if any ) I should put here? I really like Mikes rudder wheel look. This style.

http://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-77bd-5166.jpg


- Ben -

[RayAllen]

Looking good Ben, lowes and hd both have some cool door handles/pulls with aquatic themes. Ive seen sea turtles, angel fish and a couple of others in different finishes.

[Scutterborn]

I'll check them out. HD, here I come!


- Ben -

[rrasco]

I kind if like my DSA stand without any hardware. It has flat doors not panel doors like yours though and can be a little PITA to get open occasionally, but meh.

[Scutterborn]

Only panel that will have a handle is the flat panel. I'm not doing it to the other doors.


-Ben-

[Scutterborn]

Looks like the tank will need to torn apart and resealed. I'm not happy about this.


- Ben -

[rrasco]

Ouch, that's not fun. How did you come to that conclusion?

[Scutterborn]

The top 6 3/4" of the silicone is separating.

http://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-171a-af91.jpg

If I push the corner together I can see that the silicone makes contact again. I don't know how I missed this. Im not sure where I'm gonna take it yet.


- Ben -

[rrasco]

Bummer. The only place I know of is Forever Pets. Someone mentioned another member can do it, but I don't really know. I guess the silver lining is you caught it now.

[Scutterborn]

I called Forever Pets and got a rough quote. I have nothing to base it on to know whether it's a good price or not.

On the other hand the new sump is ready!! It's amazing to say the least.

http://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-1f86-7faa.jpg


- Ben -

[reefreak]

Ben ill ask my pops he could possibly reseal it since he had bad seals on our 85 hex and got em fixed

[Big_Pun]

**** that sucks better now, than later when it's sitting in the house full of water. man and I wanted that tank when it went up for sale...

[rrasco]

Nice sump!

FWIW: I was quoted $225 to replace the front panel on my 210. Maybe give you some sort of baseline, I thought it was pretty reasonable in my case.

[RayAllen]

Killer Sump Ben, Looks awesome!

[Big_Pun]

more pics of sump and explain all the chambers. very nice

[Scutterborn]

http://img.tapatalk.com/a6934896-33b0-4d7a.jpg

The first section to the left is the intake side. This will be the fuge with LR and chaeto. The middle section is for the DSB. The reactors will also be in this section. The next section is for the beastly skimmer. Then on to the return section. This is where the tunze osmolator sensor and reactor pump will be. I still need to drill a 3" hole for the bulkhead. I'm running a reeflo snapper circulation pump. Also had an acrylic drip tray for the pump to sit in for identifying seal failures on the pump.

Overall dimensions are 48"lX24"wX20"h

Water level in the first two chambers is 16" then dropping to 7.5" in the skimmer section.

http://img.tapatalk.com/a69348a1-365c-c864.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/a69348a1-367b-2c80.jpg
That's some super smooth water flow there!!


- Ben -

[RayAllen]

another Ace creation, nicely done.

[Scutterborn]

Indeed.


- Ben -

[Big_Pun]

Snazzy!!

[Scutterborn]

Nice sump!

FWIW: I was quoted $225 to replace the front panel on my 210. Maybe give you some sort of baseline, I thought it was pretty reasonable in my case.

I was told it would be around $160. No new glass. Just silicone and labor.


- Ben -

[reefreak]

ever thought of doing your self? silicone tubes only like $10

[Mr Cob]

love the SUmp, nice job Ace!!! Are the reactors built in? Man, that's cherry.

[rrasco]

Ah, that's what those are! I was trying to figure out what those things were.

[Scutterborn]

The reactors are removable. They are built so well they hang on the side and look built in! They are awesome.


- Ben -

[allan]

I saw this thing in person... Got to touch it and all.

Awesome build.

[Scutterborn]

I saw this thing in person... Got to touch it and all.

Awesome build.

Yes. I allowed some extra Allan magic to commingle with the bountiful magic that is Ace's work. Should make it super awesome-o!!


- Ben -

[Scutterborn]

This is taking too long..,

So many other things popping up that keep me distracted.
I'm tryin not to just rush on this build but I feel as though I'm clouding the karma with my own aggravation and impatience.


- Ben -

[Big_Pun]

it's always something Ben!! I had to keep my fish in brutes longer than planed because of plumbing issues, after that was a slow leak at a bulk head. then an mp-40 seized up and cracked the frame. then my ballast where wrong for the bulbs I wanted to use, then a t5 ballast went out. gotta love this hobby to stick it out!!

[Scutterborn]

Oh don't worry! I'm sticking it out. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't becoming slightly demoralized though.


- Ben -

[rrasco]

Just hang in there and take it slow. I started my new build on Dec 9. I moved livestock into it at the end of June. Between a busted tank, funds availability, and actually building out all the things that I did it sure took a lot longer than I wanted and felt like I was never going to get there, but I did. You'll get there, and when you do, it'll be worth it.

Is there anything specific holding up your progress right now?

[Scutterborn]

Funds mostly. Been rounding up parts here an there. Resealing the tank is número uno on the list right now. I'm still working on the doors for the stand as well


- Ben -

[Scutterborn]

Looking like this tank will be heading to forever pets on Sunday! I'll start moving the stand in and getting things ready to go in with the tank next week or so. They said it should take about a week to complete. I'm getting all pumped up again!!


-Ben-

[BBQHILLBILLY]

fyi make sure FP has enough hands on deck to remove the tank from the truck. normally its mon thru fri bank hours

[Scutterborn]

When I spoke with him yesterday, they said they said they would have "a guy" available to help. Ummm... I said "the tank weighs 435lbs". He said "oh... We can just slide it off the back of the truck...". If you come over, Shane, maybe you could follow me over there since I think it's kinda on your way home. I've never worked with these guys an don't know what to expect. Do they have a cart or something?


- Ben -

[BBQHILLBILLY]

yes it is easy to slide off on their cart. 2 of us moved the 8fter on 2 carts. I dont mind following you there. What time do they open on sundays?

[Scutterborn]

I'll double check with them today on their exact hours. If yours is ready I could help you load it! They did bump the price on me a bit though. What are you gonna do though, right?


- Ben -

[BBQHILLBILLY]

My tank will take more time. In addition to being resealed, its being changed a bit in that I am adding molding and trim and center bracing to support glass tops. pm me with address and time and Ill meet you to help load.

[Scutterborn]

Pm'ed


- Ben -

[Scutterborn]

So I've been talking it over with Ace and I've decided to move both overflows to the 30" side. The overflows are 12" x 6" L shaped glass. This will leave a 6"gap between them.

Sounds like the perfect place to stick the Tunze wavebox! I'll have slightly less than 1" clearance on either side of the wavebox. Since this will be a peninsula style design the " back of the tank will lose only 6" of floor space. That still leaves me with 54" x 30".

What say you?


- Ben -

[hobogato]

after talking, i was thinking about this. you will be able to see into the overflows from the front of the tank and the back of the tank right? you may want to think about building an addition section that goes from the top of the stand to the bottom of the canopy to hide that area.

[Scutterborn]

I had considered doing something like that, yes. The tank was to be placed 7" from the wall to accommodate the external return lines. Without the need for these, I can reasonably move it to 3" from the wall. The doors I'm building for one side are a lattice style inlay. That should allow the fans to exhaust a lot of the heat. I really don't want to run a chiller.


- Ben -

[Scutterborn]

They would also be removable for access to the overflow boxes in the event of any wayward livestock and maintenance.


- Ben -

[reefreak]

Ben is this tank pre drilled?

[Scutterborn]

Yup. But we're gonna put some more in it. :) Only need 3 more totaling 7. One will be plugged and two for the closed loop. The remaining 4 will be standard 2 returns and 2 drains.


- Ben -

[Scutterborn]

I did call Deep Sea Aquatics today and verified that the tank is not tempered.


- Ben -

[reefreak]

oh okay is it drilled on the back or side?

[Scutterborn]

On the bottom.


- Ben -

[reefreak]

i know that lol but is it twords the back or to the side?

[Scutterborn]

There are currently 4 holes drilled for 1" bulkheads along, what used to be, the back. That is the 60" side. We will drill 3 new holes in the bottom along the 30" side and reuse one of the existing holes.


- Ben -

[reefreak]

oh lol i was kind of confused okay i get it.

[Scutterborn]

Your question confused me as well. I'm thinking to myself " he's seen this tank and knows the holes are drilled in the bottom" lol!


- Ben -

[Scutterborn]

I can't sleep. I've got to be up for work in a few hours but, I can't stop mulling over the build process details in my head...


-Ben-

[reefreak]

thats how i feel about my lights right now lol!

[lildingy]

Thought about goin with diy leds?

[reefreak]

Who me?

[lildingy]

Yupp

[reefreak]

not sure why just metal halides are just plug and play.

[lildingy]

Very good point :) for me it was for fun and tryin to save a little money on bulbs down the road. But y mess with something that works :)

[reefreak]

lol yeah i wanted to do led but my money says no lol.

[Scutterborn]

I had originally wanted nothing to do with MH lights. I was gonna do this and that with a DIY led setup. When
I bought this setup, the guy made me a deal on the lights as well. After seeing how great tanks looked with halides, I couldn't resist. This will be a test bed for the lights. I've got a total of 5 250w halides for this system. 3 for the DT and 2 for the frag tank. IF I choose to switch to led, it'll be on the 75g frag tank first. Then, after seeing first hand the effect of LEDs, I'll consider switching over to the DT for LEDs. I know LEDs have progressed considerably in the last few years. I also think they still have a little way to go before I'm ready to completely switch over.
I have leds on one of my nanocubes. When the ballast went out, I have a 150w halide I ran as a temporary light. I can't say the LEDs look bad but compared to the halide... No question. Halide has better spectrum. The LEDs in the stock jbj hood are all 14k white 3w LEDs. 25 of them. That may be the root cause. No other colors on the hood. When these LEDs begin to have problems I will be changing them out with different color temps to increase the spectrum. Until that happens they will remain "as is".


- Ben -

[Scutterborn]

Tank is now in the hands of Forever Pets. I've got a week or so to finish the stand and get it moved into place.

Here we go... :)


- Ben -

[Scutterborn]

About to start cutting up the stand top for new holes.

:)


-Ben-

[Scutterborn]

And done. Little paint tomorrow and we'll be looking spiffy.
http://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-b912-7894.jpg


- Ben -

[hobogato]

wait, you cut that on the wrong end!




















jk :p

[reefreak]

ace i bet you almost gave ben a heart attack. lol

[Scutterborn]

I actually started the layout on the wrong side. Lol! He nearly gave me a heart attack when he mentioned the possibility of the glass shattering mid drilling.


-Ben-

[Scutterborn]

Ace is really, REALLY good at planting seeds....

This tank will now go rimless...


-Ben-

[hobogato]

:D

[Scutterborn]

Yes, you have the gift of a silver tongue, my friend!


-Ben-

[BBQHILLBILLY]

That will look sweeet!!

[Big_Pun]

Ace is really, REALLY good at planting seeds....

This tank will now go rimless...


-Ben-

that's a fact jack!! which is why I've been plotting how to make rock go up my water fall !!

[hobogato]

well, i cant build everything i want, so i have to get you guys to build some too. then i can live vicariously thru your projects :)

[Scutterborn]

More than happy to oblige!


-Ben-

[Scutterborn]

Tank is ready to be picked up. I'll get that done Sunday then drill new holes! Just checked BRS and they are "out of stock" on their EcoRock...


- Ben -

[reefreak]

Bummer when will you be getting then?

[Scutterborn]

I will be patient. They said they'd have more back in a few days.


- Ben -

[Scutterborn]

Little update
So I've had rock cycling in a 75g in the garage for 30-45 days. No water changes, no testing. I'm starting to see stomatella varia snails milling about. I've had pineapple sponges in there for weeks. (I added some LR from one of my tanks.) I decided to to grab some black mollies and start the nitrogen cycle and get this rock ready for the 185. I've got the SG up to 1.012 and everyone's still kickin. I'm hoping by this afternoon to have them fully acclimated. They've been acclimating since 5:30p last night.


- Ben -

[Scutterborn]

I also just wired up the utility light switch for the door. When I open the door, it comes on! No more fumbling around blindly feeling for the switch.


-Ben-

[Scutterborn]

All 10 mollies acclimated well and are now in the curing tank. http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/09/15/tybapezu.jpg


- Ben -

[reefreak]

already in the 75? nice man

[Scutterborn]

Yeah. I'm stoked. I love seeing progress. I'm also impressed with how well these mollies did. It's so interesting to me.


- Ben -

[Zen Reef]

Will the mollies still breed in sw?

[Scutterborn]

Will the mollies still breed in sw?

Yes, they will. I figure it's a good way to start establishing nitrifying bacteria on the rock and will help to shorten the cycle time when it gets transferred to the 185. I was hoping to have this tank cycled by the time I get back from MACNA. at this point, I'm just hoping that it's setup by then. :(

-Ben-

[Zen Reef]

Hmmm..free coral/fish food! Those things breed like crazy.

[Scutterborn]

Yeah. That's kinda what I was thinking as well. Once I get an established population I'll pull some out and give them to my mom for the same purpose, only as a freshie!


-Ben-

[Scutterborn]

What a beautiful day to move a tank....


- Ben -

[Scutterborn]

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/09/16/gy7y5yru.jpg.

Mmmm....


- Ben -

[BBQHILLBILLY]

very nice. Sweet looking tank.

[Big_Pun]

that's gotta be the biggest rimless I've seen in a while .... looks good

[350gt]

Nice!.....

Im a bit jelly, I like rimless tanks.... My next tank will be rimless and wide!.

[reefreak]

Agreed tony i love how wide this tank is ben!

[allan]

Crud. I forgot about your move!!!

[Scutterborn]

It's still on the bed of the truck. I've gotta get it off before tomorrow morning. Gonna set it back in garage to get drilled.


- Ben -

[allan]

I will ring you on the way back home. I'm picking up a new tv.

[Scutterborn]

that's gotta be the biggest rimless I've seen in a while .... looks good

I decided to go rimless after talking with Ace. And I'm very glad I did. I think its really sharp looking as well.


-Ben-

[Scutterborn]

I will ring you on the way back home. I'm picking up a new tv.

For me!!! Aww you shouldn't have...

:)


-Ben-

[allan]

For mamma!

Wanted the 80" but it won't fit on the wall she wants it on. 70" will just have to do.

[Scutterborn]

Sharps new 90" LED is "you" wide! I love the size of that thing! It is literally 6'10" wide. How crazy is that!?


-Ben-

[Scutterborn]

I ordered 195lbs of rock from BRS. Should be here Tuesday. Woohoo!! I did loose 1 Molly in the curing tank but still have 11. Started with 10. Two lil baby's swimming around. Very prolific breeders!


- Ben -

[Scutterborn]

I'm finally home and got a chance to look over my tank from when I got it back on sunday. I'm considerably less than pleased...


- Ben -

[allan]

Why, Ben, what happened?

[Scutterborn]

Why, Ben, what happened?

Lmbo!!!

Gee, Allan, I dunno!

:)


- Ben -

[Scutterborn]

Chips...
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/09/22/ese6udej.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/09/22/anuze9az.jpg
And scratches...
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/09/22/3ujy7yha.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/09/22/qu3uje4u.jpg
The "new" seams
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/09/22/ta6u6u7y.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/09/22/ypegudeg.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/09/22/4yqetuta.jpg
And look how thick this silicone is!
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/09/22/pe6ubymu.jpg
This pics generalized all 4 corners... Look at that gap!
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/09/22/rudezysu.jpg

I am hereby demoralized...


- Ben -

[lildingy]

Oh man, I so sorry, I know that gotta take soma tha fire outta ya

[BBQHILLBILLY]

what tha? what happened

[rrasco]

Ouch. Was that FP?

[BBQHILLBILLY]

wow Ive had FP redo 4 tanks for me 180RR, 210RR, 125RR, and 240RR all are good.

[Scutterborn]

Ouch. Was that FP?

Yeah. I guess it's just my luck.


-Ben-

[allan]

Dude, i would call them.

[hobogato]

i would not accept that. that is totally unbelievable.

[Scutterborn]

If they did this the first time what's the "re-do" gonna be?

Don't get me wrong. I'm not trying to disparage anyone or forever pets. I took the tank there because I heard great things about them. Shane's tank looked great. I didn't have a worry. The bottom line is I shouldn't have been in a hurry and checked it out before I took possession of it.

Saying that, I still don't feel any better about the situation.


-Ben-

[hobogato]

the problem is, i dont know if i would trust those seams.

[Flyride95]

Same. I wouldn't trust that much water being held in there.

[350gt]

wow man.....

that looks like if I did it or something.........


Sorry to joke at a moment like this but seriously that is poor work......

[Scutterborn]

the problem is, i dont know if i would trust those seams.

....not something I wanted to hear


-Ben-

[Scutterborn]

Ace, do you wanna swing by mañana just to let me know what you think first hand. If its gotta go back, we can scratch Sunday off the "to-do" list


-Ben-

[hobogato]

yeah, i can come by. i can tell you right now tho, based on your pictures, i would not trust that tank in my house.

[Scutterborn]

i can tell you right now tho, based on your pictures, i would not trust that tank in my house.

Awesome! (sarcasm)


-Ben-

[hobogato]

im sorry ben. i dont mean to be callous, i really feel bad for you. i would be furious if i were you.

[reefreak]

man this blows.

[Big_Pun]

nothing wrong with making them fix and do it right that's what you paid for! old saying poo happens!

[Scutterborn]

Ace, no worries. I've got thick skin and never thought you were being callous.

Chris, this tank came away with at least 2 chips and 2 scratches. How many will it leave with next time...


-Ben-

[Gseclipse02]

a few more wont hurt its not like ur going to trust it the way it sits....

[Big_Pun]

a few more wont hurt its not like ur going to trust it the way it sits....

rather have scratches than a flood

[Scutterborn]

I shouldn't have to choose.


-Ben-

[Big_Pun]

I shouldn't have to choose.


-Ben-

no you shouldn't but brotha your all ready pot committed and all in.

[Gseclipse02]

I shouldn't have to choose.


-Ben-



i give you the shouldnt ben..... but you may have too ... make them replace the F'd up glass .... if they dont do what you want call the city on the them jkjk lol

[Scutterborn]

So I called FP. I was asked to call back Monday after he talked to the guy who resealed the tank.

He told me it was likely because my 3/4" glass wasn't perfectly straight....


-Ben-

[Big_Pun]

So I called FP. I was asked to call back Monday after he talked to the guy who resealed the tank.

He told me it was likely because my 3/4" glass wasn't perfectly straight....


-Ben-

in no way am I defending him... but it did blow a front glass seal in first place, I didn't think glass would stay bowed out

[Scutterborn]

in no way am I defending him... but it did blow a front glass seal in first place, I didn't think glass would stay bowed out

It never leaked... I had it full to the overflows on the stand while stored. The silicone had evaporated is what I was told.


- Ben -

[Scutterborn]

With Ace's confirmation, the tank is deemed unworthy by any means to hold water.

The stand has been moved back out of the house.

:(


-Ben-

[Flyride95]

Ah man that is what I thought. That really sucks! I would definetely be taking it back and would tell them your not picking it back up unless it is fixed. But yea when I saw that the back was being held on like that it is a matter of time before it starts leaking again.

[reefreak]

Man that sucks! But atleast you have water in the 75g

[Scutterborn]

I'm now headed to pick up plumbing for the waterfall tank...


- Ben -

[Scutterborn]

I'm gonna build something today, danggit!!


- Ben -

[allan]

Hey Ben,

You going to put up some pictures? I seem to remember some pretentious J-head saying something like "no pics, no fun"... cough, hint, cough :-)

[Mr Cob]

bummer dude

[sdunn90fowlr]

I had an issue with the tank I bought. I was told that FP put the overflows in the tank before I bought it. Within a few weeks the silicone used started flaking off the overflow covers and every fish in the tank died. I got no real answers about this issue. I just ended up redoing the overflows myself so I would know what silicone was being used.

I feel your pain! It sucks to get all pumped up about the build and to have these issues. Fortunately for you, the problem is apparent before being fully set up.

The good news! Soon you will have the issue behind you, the tank set up and all the rest will fade away, and you will be enjoying the tank.

[Scutterborn]

I picked up the plumbing and did a tap water test. No leaks on the first try...

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/09/24/re7u7etu.jpg
I still need to put the ball valve inline with the return hose.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/09/24/junanetu.jpg
I left the 20t out of the stand for the test. Ace and I discussed a sump design today. For now, this will do.


- Ben -

[Scutterborn]

I forgot to add that I've got an AI Sol super blue in the works for this tank. Paid for but I'm waiting for his vega to show up...


- Ben -

[Scutterborn]

Makin soup...

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/09/24/6y2a3ypy.jpg


-Ben-

[allan]

I really like this tank. Looking good.

[Scutterborn]

Starting to clear up!

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/09/24/a9e4uqe2.jpg


- Ben -

[Big_Pun]

glad this tank is providing you with some satisfaction while you regroup with the 185

[Scutterborn]

glad this tank is providing you with some satisfaction while you regroup with the 185

This tank is likely saving my moral about this entire endeavor. Thanks for the deal you gave me on it too! Once the185 is up and I fully build this tank, I'll start it's own build thread.


- Ben -

[reefreak]

I really wish i could have bought this tank agh! Im so jealous looks great man!

[350gt]

Looks good Ben.....

so your going AI huh?

Look forward to the progress...

[Scutterborn]

Sorry Jeremy! I couldn't stop myself!

Tony, after seeing your tank.... Dude... No brainer!! Your tank looks tight.


- Ben -

[350gt]

Thanks man.... It's coming around.

The t5s IMO helped out so much though (color wise)..

[Scutterborn]

I spoke with the owner today. They are going to reseal it and I'll certainly be checking it before it gets on my truck this time. We'll see how well it goes this time.

The excuse I got was that because there were little chips in the rim of the glass, which I believe to have happened when the trim was removed, I asked them to flip the glass. They say that because the glass may not have been sanded properly from the manufacturer it caused the bubbles... Whatever!

I've done enough research online to know that if you set a piece with silicone then pull it to tweak the placement it will bubble. This is what I believe happened. Bottom line.


-Ben-

[hobogato]

:thumbs_up: hopefully they will get it right this time!

[Scutterborn]

I got the mollies an some macro moved over to the new tank.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/09/25/yvy7any9.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/09/25/saryjeru.jpg

I haven't had the time to really do the rock properly. I've got to keep telling myself this is only temporary...


- Ben -

[reefreak]

You should do a caulerpa garden and i need to get me some mollies for my gha

[Scutterborn]

I need to get me some mollies for my gha

If you wanna come by, I'll give you a pair of mollies.


- Ben -

[jwalk034]

It's looking good. Great looking tank.
Just a thought, before you decide to buy the AI I recomend you check out the EcoTech Radions. They don't require a controller, they are brighter, can be controled from your computer and can also work together with the Vortech powerheads. Ask louis at elegant to put his on demo mode for you. They are awesome. I am planning on putting those on my 40 breeder I'm about to build.
Good luck with this build! I will keep checking in on it!

[Scutterborn]

The AI is paid for. I paid $200 for it. Too good of a deal to pass up. As soon as his vega shows up in the mail I can pick it up. I don't always need the best of the best! Lol. The AI should do what I need it to do. The water depth is only 10" in the tank.

On a side note to the OP, I was told by the wife that 195lbs of rock were delivered yesterday. It's only right that I'd be working out of town when it showed up! She was none to happy to move the boxes in! Lol.
:)


- Ben -

[jwalk034]

Nice! I wouldn't have passed up that deal either! The AI will work great on this tank, I was just making a sugestion lol. Can't wait to see this tank complete!

[350gt]

If I could make a suggestion would be to add a magenta/blue stunner strip.. Or 2... Maybe even the magenta/white stunner....


It would help with the color so much....

[Scutterborn]

It's a super blue model with white, blue and royal blue, Tony. You still think I should add the stunner? I've never had one of these fancy doodads. Lol.

:)


- Ben -

[350gt]

I added the t5s to my AIs cause the color looked too bland....

with your shallow tank, I think one strip would make the colors pop... Looks awesome when you set them to come on during the AIs dawn/dusk settings..


i wish I had one to let you try out...

[Scutterborn]

Hmm. I didn't really want to do more than what I'd planned. The wife is already talking about wanting to put turtles in here after the 185 is up...

I don't know about that girl sometimes...


- Ben -

[350gt]

Turtles stink.... Lol

[Scutterborn]

Turtles stink.... Lol

And they smell, too.


- Ben -

[rrasco]

Turtles? In the waterfall tank? Ewww...

[Scutterborn]

Yeah. I'd buy a sheet and a half of acrylic and build a 48"x48"x14" tank for them before I let her put turtles in there.


- Ben -

[Scutterborn]

I'm sure Ace will chime in with his amazing acrylic calculator brain in a bit. Lol. ;)


- Ben -

[hobogato]

lol

[Scutterborn]

I just spoke with the owner of DSA. His name is Dan. I really like Dan. Details to come...

:)


- Ben -

[reefreak]

uh oh lol.......

[Scutterborn]

Dan is gonna help get this project back on track!

:)


- Ben -

[Scutterborn]

I need to make some room in the tanks!! On my way back with 2 small coolers packed!


- Ben -

[reefreak]

Jeremy has alot of room lol!

[Scutterborn]

I did get you a present Jeremy! It's NOT living though. Lol.


- Ben -

[reefreak]

Wooh a pen!lol

[Scutterborn]

Lol! It's not a pen.


- Ben -

[reefreak]

I wonder what it is.....

[350gt]

I say shirt!

[Scutterborn]

I say shirt!

Negative...


- Ben -

[reefreak]

Ai sol!

[Scutterborn]

Ai sol!

You done lost your dang mind!!

:)

-Ben-

[Scutterborn]

Corals are acclimating. Almost picture time!!


-Ben-

[Scutterborn]

Some are still a little upset from the move and haven't fully opened their polyps. I will post pics of them later.

Here we go!
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/10/01/ugenu4a6.jpg
Aussie golden torch. Just started coming out.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/10/01/vy4e7abe.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/10/01/u9ytusa9.jpg
Pink and green Gonipora respectively
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/10/01/aqe8ajys.jpg
Neon green acropora
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/10/01/abepaha3.jpg
Blue acropora. I think it's a blue tort but it browned a bit on the way home.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/10/01/2utu9u6e.jpg
Neon green Stylo. Not very neon.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/10/01/a6e5yhaj.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/10/01/buvu7udu.jpg
Palys and zoas. No ID.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/10/01/udemytav.jpg
Lithophyllon undulatum. Very nice!!
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/10/01/mava4a2u.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/10/01/yhaputu2.jpg
ORA maxima clams
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/10/01/yqese4yj.jpg
ORA Crocea clam.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/10/01/eha6ybeb.jpg
FTS of the waterfall tank.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/10/01/3epe8a6e.jpg
I like this look a lot!

-Ben-

[350gt]

Looking sexy there Ben.......

[reefreak]

I have to go by also so i can grab a pair of mollys from ya

[Scutterborn]

Über sexy, Tony, über sexy!

;)


I have to go by also so i can grab a pair of mollys from ya

C'mon!


-Ben-

[Scutterborn]

The wife called and told me the crocea clams mantle is becoming transparent in spots. Any ideas? I'm headed home now to check on it.


- Ben -

[Scutterborn]

Yesterday
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/10/03/y4ejege8.jpg
Right now
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/10/03/amyveben.jpg
The mantle is losing it color an there's two spots where it's nearly transparent.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/10/03/azydamet.jpg

I have it under a 150w MH. They had it under LEDs. Think it's acclimating?


- Ben -

[jwalk034]

Mine are under t-5 and are doing a lot better than the other one that I have under LEDs

[Scutterborn]

The deal has been sealed. I should be picking up the tank next Saturday. I'll be driving to Dallas to pick it up and alleviate any logistical stress. Progress. I'm thinking of building a custom stand.


-Ben-

[Scutterborn]

The new tank is slightly different. Same dimensions but built with 1/2" glass vs 3/4" glass. It will have a 2" center brace. I'm not particularly happy about the brace but its considerably narrower than the previous 24" wide brace.

Do you think I'll see much difference in the clarity of the glass between 1/2" and 3/4"? What are y'all's thoughts on the new style with the brace?


- Ben -

[sdunn90fowlr]

Mine has that 24" center brace. I wish it was only 2"! Mine has the 1/2 glass as seems to be fine. Sorry you had so much trouble with the 1st tank. What a bummer! Good thing you didn't get discouraged.

[Scutterborn]

The 2" center-brace isn't clear. It's opaque. With 3 halides it will cast a reasonable shadow. I just got back from driving my new crane back
From Kentucky and have been playing phone tag with DSA about staying with the 3/4" glass.


- Ben -

[reefreak]

Any update?

[Scutterborn]

Sore subject, my man...

Nothing to report.


-Ben-

[Scutterborn]

Headed back to Forever Pets to inspect the reseal. I'm not gonna rush this time.

Need some advice. If the seals look good, should I set it up? It's 3/4" glass so it's got big seams. If not, I'm thinking of scrapping the entire setup. That's gonna kill me. I've got a ton of money tied up in this deal. I'm not sure the wife can put up with changing the direction of this "build".


- Ben -

[Zack]

I thought you got a brand new tank from the owner of DSA?

And if your having thoughts of scrapping it, it's better to do it now rather when it;s full of live stock.

[Scutterborn]

That never worked out.

The tank is on the truck. It looks way better than before. Seals may be a little thicker than I'd have liked. I need to research what the proper thickness is. I'll then do a water test in the garage...


- Ben -

[BBQHILLBILLY]

yes thick seals are good:bigsmile:water test for a month check for bowing

[Scutterborn]

Here's a few pics of the seals

1830118302183031830418305


-Ben

[BBQHILLBILLY]

They like to use silicone for sure. I like take anything that needs to be sealed to them. Silicone costs a lot.

[Scutterborn]

It seems that too much would be a weakness due to a tensile shearing effect.


- Ben -

[allan]

Water test for sure, but I would assume that a reseal job is akin to a brand new tank... right?

On the flip side, I should have your sump back to you in the next couple of days. If all goes well tonight my new tank will be set up and running.

[Scutterborn]

Water test for sure, but I would assume that a reseal job is akin to a brand new tank... right?

On the flip side, I should have your sump back to you in the next couple of days. If all goes well tonight my new tank will be set up and running.

Call me if you need a hand, bud. Take your time on the sump. Don't rush on my account. I'll be water testing this guy for a bit as it is.


- Ben -

[BBQHILLBILLY]

That was fast Allan. Lol

[allan]

My back disagrees, Shane. Lol

I'm not rushing, Ben, the new tank is almost full and everything seems to be checking out.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Scutterborn]

Sounds awesome, Allan. I still laugh to this day about "us" carrying your tank in! Lmbo!! ;)


- Ben -

[allan]

LMBO, Gloria keeps giving me a rash of doodoo about that. She said she's got a picture of where I'm fixing my hair with the load bearing hand while you were peach-faced and carrying the weight. :D

[Scutterborn]

Rofl!


- Ben -

[Scutterborn]

Kickin back on a chair in the garage with a cigar and a drink watching the show...

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/01/03/vyrajygy.jpg


-Ben-

[Zack]

Sounds like a lovely evening!

[BBQHILLBILLY]

Congrats looks good!!:bigsmile:

[Scutterborn]

Thanks, Shane. It'll look better when it's in the living room though.

:)

[Scutterborn]

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/01/03/beja2yme.jpg

Well, it's still holding water...

-Ben-

[FireWater]

That's always a good start.

[Scutterborn]

Agreed!


-Ben-

[Big_Pun]

shake it!!

[hobogato]

shake it!!

Not A bad idea. Aren't you planning to use a wave box? If you have it already, you may want to run it now to really test the tank

[Big_Pun]

love how Ace understands me!! scary

[nwehrman]

Yes a wave in the garage sounds much better than inside...just saying!

[Flyride95]

I have a wave maker going a little over an inch maybe 1.5 and yea that will test your seams lol.

[allan]

Thanks, Shane. It'll look better when it's in the living room though.

:)

Well, lets be sure you remove the water before we move it into the living room. :)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Keelynnsreef]

http://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-76d1-73c7.jpg

This will actually be the "front". The opposite side is what will be against the wall.

Yes it needs a door handle. Any ideas on what sort of decoration ( if any ) I should put here? I really like Mikes rudder wheel look. This style.

http://img.tapatalk.com/4245386e-77bd-5166.jpg


- Ben -

I am also going to build a top for it and redo the bottom as well.