New 75gal Tank Build

[3rdCoast]

So I've been working on this a month and just now coming around to posting progress reports. I'm the recent recipient of close to new 75gal tank in need of just having the overflow re caulked into place (don't worry, the Windex was not used on the tank):
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I couldn't go with store bought stand as I cannot stomach buying something I can build better and less expensive. I'm modeling my stand build off my buddy's stand he built:
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We start off with a welded 1-1/2" steel tube stand:
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Next we cut, glue, and cut again the side panels, to be epoxy attached. We also frame the front panels with pocket screws. All cherry wood:
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After sanding and polyurethane, we test fit the front panels. Bottom panel is a drawer frame, epoxy attached, the top is attached by magnets for easy removal and service. Notice the refugium window and side openings for custom inserts. The top opening will be a blank panel that opens for quick service:
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After some adjustment, we sand and polyurethane some more, x5:
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Now we return the fronts to their final resting places and build the drawer with dividers and self closing slides:
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Tonight, we attached the top blank panel to the front with tilt hinges for quick service:
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Tomorrow we will be mounting the refugium rack and the pull hardware for homecoming to my house for the tank setup, cycle, and transfer from my 55gal. Stay tuned for more to come!

[originalhandy]

That's looking badass, I wish I had the talent to build a stand like that!

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[Ballinxalex]

Wow very crafty !

[phish]

Nice work Justin

[danielp]

Very nice

I think 75 gallon tanks are the best size on the market.

They aren't to big and they will support a lot of different options.

I've been running one since 94 and it's had everything from live plant set ups to tanganyikan's to a current S/A set up

Keep us posted on the progress

[troy tucker]

nice job on that stand.

[jkl4971]

I agree. Great job. I wish I would have went with a metal stand.

[3rdCoast]

It's been awhile since my last update...sorry, been busy.

The tank is finally in the house and getting test fit and roughed in.
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Tonight I got substantially complete on plumbing, installed sump shelf, and test fit the sump.
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I also started paint on the electrical rack and plan to install tomorrow.

Also planned tomorrow, install sump with return pump only, complete plumbing, fill with freshwater and test cycle for a leak check.

Cheers!

[3rdCoast]

Done cycling freshwater/leak testing. Transferred the current livestock into a temp tank and cycling the new tank. Setup electrical rack, rough aquascaping, and waiting. Stoked to hit the homeward stretch!
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[3rdCoast]

Well we have finally reached substantial completion! The tank is finished cycling and ready for livestock.
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The livestock has been added and the fish are enjoying the larger space. (2 oscillaris, a blue velvet, a scopus tang, and sailfin tang. I'll show pictures of the fish after the lights are installed. Tikka is celebrating the finish!
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The timer strip has been installed and lot up the refugium with an LED light. Chaeto, dragons tongue, and codium macros have been added.
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Left on the punch list, engineer and install my new light display and make filler panels for the side openings of the stand face. Working with plexiglas for a shadow effect. More to come!

[3rdCoast]

Getting closer to the finish line. Built some industrial pipe hangers for the display tank lights. And added a tomato clown to the refugium. Just lacking the side fillers for the stand. More to come!
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