Rickztahone's Simple Bowfront Discus Tank (Journal)

[rickztahone]

I have been itching to get back in to the hobby as of late. I really miss my 125, and even my 55g tank, but an opportunity came up where I could get a bowfront tank.

As of right now I'm actually not sure how many gallons it is but I'm assuming it is 56g. My cousin claimed this is an 80g tank which I 100% know to be false.
I took tank measurements yesterday and it was 35Lx 18.5W (at the widest part of the bowfront)x20H. I assume this to be a 56g which kind of sucks because when I thought it was 80g I was going to stock 6 discus.
Now that I know it is less, I can only do 5, plus, the footprint will be smaller which means I will be right at the max of my stocking level, and I never like running a tank that way. No way I'm doing 4 or less discus in a tank though.

The tank itself is a Jebo tank, and it came with the most aweful looking top, lol. It was all integrated for a filter and lights right on the top! Yuk. So, I removed the tank lid, and for extra measure I took off the rim. I've never been a fan of rims so off it went. I assume it will be fine without the center brace, but I will load it up with water and make sure it isn't too stressed. Here are the pics of the tank:

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_zpsdcafaea0.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_zpsdcafaea0.jpg.html)
Before the lid removal

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_1_zpsc4f9371b.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_1_zpsc4f9371b.jpg.html)
After. Of course I will clean up the top silicone and maybe use some "goo-gone" (http://www.amazon.com/Homax-Oz-Goo-Gone-GG12/dp/B00006IBNJ/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1396715087&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=goo+gone) to remove the residue? Anyone, please advise if I should stay away from these type of products in my aquarium. I still need to bleach the tank and filter too.

Goals:
-Making DIY Stand- I've been searching for designs on how to make DIY stands, but they all seem to be the same. I wish I could make the stand so that the whole front was curved to match the tank but I do not believe I have the tools to do this. So it will probably end up being a regular rectangular stand, but the top plywood will be shaped for the bowfront. Hopefully, I will be able to integrate the filter pipes in to the stand. It is something I have always wanted to do. I will also include lighting under the tank. I use to hate taking a flashlight under there, lol.

-Frost backing- I've always wanted to do a frosted back tank, and this should be a good candidate. The tank was plenty dirty but I have been using White Vinegar to clean it all up. So far it is coming all off but it is very tedious.
Additionally, I would like to put an LED light behind the frost back in order to illuminate it a little.

-Substrate- This will be very easy and simple. Light layer of Tan/white pool filter sand. I'm going for the simplistic approach in this tank. All I want in there is the discus, sand, and hopefully a nice DW piece that will help the composition/balance of the tank.

-Filter(s)- I've trusted Rena filters for a really long time so I guess I will end up going with an xp3. The tank came with an xp2, and I may use that as well, but I'm not sure on that yet. I may end up frosting the hoses as well to match the background. I had toyed with the idea of a sump, but I have never used one before. The reason I was looking in to it was because it would expand my water volume. In this way I wouldn't be so near to the limit of where I have to be as far as stocking levels go. Plus, I'm building a custom stand so I can always integrate it directly to the correct space. But again, I've never used one and my fear is ending up with water all over my floor for lacking understanding of a sump system. Additionally, this tank isn't drilled, and i've never done that either.

-Heating- Trusty-O inline Hydor 300. Unless I go with sump, then the heater will stay in the sump. Again, simple approach means getting as many unnecessary things out of the tank as possible.

-Pipes- When I had lily pipes on my 10g planted fish tanks I fell in love with the lily pipe look. I will try to find some for the xp3 hoses. This will just help maintain that "clean tank" look i'm going for. These are the ones I'm looking at (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00H2EK9R6/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=UO4Z3YNWDDIR&coliid=IO1OKGTNTCVVO) I just need to confirm that the sizing is correct for the xp3. I can't remember off the top of my head.

-Lighting- I will go with LED's because I've never had them! 3yrs ago (when I got out of the hobby), LED fixtures were ridiculously expensive. Additionally, they didn't make the daytime/sunrise/sunset effect. You had to have the knowledge on how to wire that! Now, they offer it in a nice little package, lol. This is the one I plan to get (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00H3Y4YQ2/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=UO4Z3YNWDDIR&coliid=I3EQ73EJVCX8P0). I don't need a lot of light in this tank because I will not have ANY plants, or anything that actually needs the light. I will only depend on this fixture to do its effects and its handy timer settings. No more messing with additonal timers to turn it off/on. The fixture will be suspended from the ceiling.

-Water Change System- This will be very easy to drain, but I am not sure how I will choose to fill the tank. I already have a pvc pipe that goes from my room to the front yard from my previous tanks, so no work to be done there. However, filling the tank might pose a problem. I am not sure if I want to fill directly, or put it in a barrel AND THEN fill the tank. More than likely though, I will end up filling the tank directly since I already have a temperture mixing valve for re-filling tank installed in my room as well. I will have to extend the hoses which is something that I'm not looking forward to. Additionally, one of the reasons I thought it may not be a good idea to fill directly is because of the sand substrate. I figured it would make a huge mess every time I re-fill the tank.

Discus

My goal for the stocking is still a bit in the air. I know for sure I want some type of Turq, but not sure what kind yet.

I may go with:
-Chicago Discus and get some Alex Piwowarski turqs.
-Bill from IE I haven't been out to his place in a while but I'm sure he has some good looking turqs as well
-Chad Hughes from San Diego I haven't been able to contact Chad on the forum but maybe I can give him a ring when I'm ready.

-snookn21 for some RSG wilds (this is less likely as I do not believe this tank setup would be ideal for them, plus they aren't turqs :p)

I know for sure I do not want to grow out any juvies, so this will be an adult purchase only. My budget for 5 or 6 (dependant on sump or not) will be right around $1,000. Hopefully I can get some 5.5"+.

Conclusion
My projected completion of this build might be a while actually. Probably a few months, closer to 6 months or so. I have to save up money for the discus, and the additional equipment.

If any of you have any pointers/tips/ideas as far as the Stand/possible sump/or any of the other items, please let me know. It is all still up for improvement. So long as it adheres to the "clean tank" look, then I'm all ears. This will be a full on documentary of the build from here on out. Keep coming back, and I will include updates in the title as well. Thanks for viewing.

P.S. I can finally change my signature! LOL

[Tictok]

Look forward to seeing you put this all together! There is nothing better than an empty tank and a slew of possibilities! :). I have led lights and I love how they have that "shimmer- look". Really brings out the colors of the fish!

[Second Hand Pat]

Not sure removing the brace is a good idea especially with a bowfront IMHO.

[rickztahone]

Look forward to seeing you put this all together! There is nothing better than an empty tank and a slew of possibilities! :). I have led lights and I love how they have that "shimmer- look". Really brings out the colors of the fish!
That is what I was looking for as well.

Not sure removing the brace is a good idea especially with a bowfront IMHO.
I'm with you there. I kept the frame in tact though. If I see that the tank is under too much stress I can always silicone it back on. We shall see.

[jaykne]

The tank may not show stress right away but when does it will probably be to late. I broke the center brace in a tank once and they do put them there for a reason. If I were you I would put it back 46 gallons of water and fish on the floor is not a pretty site LOL.

[rickztahone]

You guys are really bumming me out! Lol. Ok, back it goes. I'm assuming I have to clean the tank really good to re-silicone it so it adheres better?

[jaykne]

Sorry we are bumming you out just trying to help, would hate to see you have a big mess on your hands. Just get some of the extra silicone off so it will stick on there, and make sure you use fish safe silicone.

[rickztahone]

Ok, very small update.

Got the rim back on. GE silicone I clear to the rescue! It is curing and will keep curing for the next few days. I'm leaving it outside for the time being. I hope acrylic can sit outside with the shifts in temps. It can't currently be indoors.

I also frosted the back glass. Came out pretty good. $20 background, not bad. Once the LED lights it up from behind I think it will look even better.

On to the Pics:

1.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_2_zpsbb512e83.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_2_zpsbb512e83.jpg.html)
I've used this silicone many many times. Cheap and works extremely well.

2.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_3_zps2308b78d.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_3_zps2308b78d.jpg.html)
Love getting wifey help :-)

3.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_4_zps8ed2d5e7.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_4_zps8ed2d5e7.jpg.html)
Getting the bubbles out

4.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_5_zpsff622734.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_5_zpsff622734.jpg.html)
Back View

5.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_6_zps8ddb6a44.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_6_zps8ddb6a44.jpg.html)
Finished product. If nothing else, having the top rim off made it a whole lot easier to install the frost tint, lol. It wasn't a total bust.

Up next I will be tackling the stand.
Stay tuned.

[Mas84]

That looks really good with the frosted back, looking forward to seeing more

[Argentum]

What is the spray can for?

[joanstone]

I'm confused about the frosted back. What did you use the paint for? Did you paint the window film?

[rickztahone]

That looks really good with the frosted back, looking forward to seeing more
Thank you. Hopefully I'll have the stand done soon.


What is the spray can for?
The spray can is for the hoses that will eventually be coming out of the sides of the stand. I want to paint them so that when they get all dirty they don't mess up the look of the overall tank.


I'm confused about the frosted back. What did you use the paint for? Did you paint the window film?
Sorry about that. Now I realize that I should not have included the spray in this part of the process yet. It will eventually be used for the hoses coming from the filters to the tank. The process I showed above did not include the spray at all.

[joanstone]

Ok, now I get it. It's looking great. I looked into doing a frosted back at one point too. Have you seen what some people are doing with frosted backing, shadow boxes and lighting? It's pretty cool.

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1868825

[rickztahone]

Ok, now I get it. It's looking great. I looked into doing a frosted back at one point too. Have you seen what some people are doing with frosted backing, shadow boxes and lighting? It's pretty cool.

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1868825

That is an awesome link, thank you! If you notice on THIS thread reply (http://reefcentral.com/forums/showpost.php?p=18369302&postcount=287) it shows kind of the look I am going for. I was thinking of putting the LED on the wall though aiming towards the tank. But seeing how they did it made me think I may get better diffusion for a much more appealing look. I just need to find that kind of LED strip.

Thanks again.

[joanstone]

Yes, that's a good one too. There are some really neat ideas out there, I'll be very interested in how yours turns out. Keep the updates coming!

[rickztahone]

Yes, that's a good one too. There are some really neat ideas out there, I'll be very interested in how yours turns out. Keep the updates coming!

Will do. I had always liked the simple designs of the ADA tanks, and this tank will definitely have that as its inspiration. I bought some bits today to round out the edges, as well as a bit for the router for the corners.

I'm also thinking of painting the trims. Does anyone have trims in any other color besides black?

[rickztahone]

82062
This is what being bored at work gets you. I did a rough sketch of how I want the stand to look.

I decided to do double doors with glass/plexi inserts w/ frost tint since I have so much left over.

I guessed the measurements since I was at work and didn't have the actual numbers available but I shouldn't be too far off.

Left side shows what the left side (as you stand viewing it straight on) would look like. The right is obviously the front.

[rickztahone]

Did the top and bottom main pieces. Unfortunately, the router bit I bought did not work with the router I had on hand. What really sucked was cutting the plywood with an electric saw :mad:

Rough cuts, so now there is a lot of covering up with filler and a lot of sanding. Rounded the corners with another bit and it came out nice. I still have to drill out the two side holes for the filter hoses. I need to buy the grommets first though.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_10_zps926a786a.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_10_zps926a786a.jpg.html)
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_9_zpsdc07c2a2.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_9_zpsdc07c2a2.jpg.html)
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_8_zps4a4c333f.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_8_zps4a4c333f.jpg.html)
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_7_zpsd9a8b3ee.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_7_zpsd9a8b3ee.jpg.html)

Ultimately I will paint the whole thing and the wood will not be visible so I am not too worried about the minor imperfections. I will work hard at filling though. Will work on the 2x4's tomorrow.

[pcsb23]

I use a fine toothed hand saw for work like this. It takes a little longer and you can sometimes work up a sweat but the results are usually much easier to finish. Looking good so far Ricardo :)

[rickztahone]

I got to work on the stand today. It went pretty well. I have to go to work in a little while so I had to stop short of finishing with the 2x4's. Tomorrow I should be able to do the plywood and hopefully this weekend will be filling and sanding.

On to the photos:
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_11_zps2caa55e5.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_11_zps2caa55e5.jpg.html)
Straight cut time!

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_12_zpsaeec68ad.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_12_zpsaeec68ad.jpg.html)
Bottom frame

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_13_zps5339e4c7.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_13_zps5339e4c7.jpg.html)
Still bottom frame

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_14_zps8607c94a.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_14_zps8607c94a.jpg.html)
Screwing it to the top

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_15_zpsc7acdf83.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_15_zpsc7acdf83.jpg.html)
It helps to clamp exactly where you want the 2x4's to stay.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_16_zps28298515.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_16_zps28298515.jpg.html)
We had 3 screw guns because we didn't want to keep switching bits lol. One had the pilot bit, the other had a screw bit and the last was just your regular screw tip. This kept everything flush, and preventing unnecessary wood cracking.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_17_zpsf23437ad.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_17_zpsf23437ad.jpg.html)
After it was all screwed up

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_18_zpsabf1e408.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_18_zpsabf1e408.jpg.html)
Screwing the uprights. The longer 2x4's were cut at 35 inches if I remember correctly. The plywood is 5/8 and the total height will be right around 36.5"

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_19_zpscb99a7ea.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_19_zpscb99a7ea.jpg.html)
Almost done. At this point we still had to put the 2x4's on the outside of the uprights.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_20_zps9d04c62c.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_20_zps9d04c62c.jpg.html)
You can see the 2x4's screwed to the uprights here. They offer extra support, and additionally provide a surface to screw the plywood on.

So, the doors will be flush mounted to the plywood face. They will hopefully have a glass or plexi insert w/ frost tint to match the back of the tank. I still have to drill the side holes for the hoses on the top plywood as well as the sides. I found the grommets (well 3 actually, I need to find 1 more, lol) for the side decks but not the sides.

Thanks for stopping by.

[chaoslite]

Looking good Rick.

Mishka

[rickztahone]

Looking good Rick.

Mishka

Thanks Mishka. I'm not sure if I've mentioned this but I'm going with an ALL WHITE finish, lol. You don't see many white stands in our hobby and I felt that a white stand would go better with the "clean look" of the build.

Also, I'm painting the trim. I suppose that is as close as rimless as I'm going to get, lol.

[rickztahone]

Update. Got the side plywood on. Sanded a bit. I will start filling in the gaps and screw holes with wood putty. I'm pretty beat now, lol.

As always, on to the pictures:
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_23_zpsea276197.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_23_zpsea276197.jpg.html)
I had a helper this time

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_25_zpsdfeca334.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_25_zpsdfeca334.jpg.html)
Side shot with the plywood done and first round of sanding.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_24_zps8370a413.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_24_zps8370a413.jpg.html)

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_26_zps7c8c9912.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_26_zps7c8c9912.jpg.html)
A detail shot

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_27_zpsad0f66f9.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_27_zpsad0f66f9.jpg.html)
Obviously a lot of putty still needs to be done. This is what happens when you get cheap plywood, lol. I went the cheap route because I will be painting the wood over, not staining, so the quality of the wood did not matter much.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_28_zps701f121f.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_28_zps701f121f.jpg.html)
And again, the little helper.

[sgchick]

Looks great!! Cute little helper too!!

[wild-blue-discus]

looking good rick, cant wait to see your layout plans

[rickztahone]

The weekend has come and almost gone and that means I got a lot of work done.

I bought the glass locally today and got them custom cut. I also frosted them over to match the back of the tank. I started the wood filling process but to be honest I was too tired to finish. Tomorrow I should be able to fill in all the gaps and screw holes. A few more hands of sanding after that and I should be ready for primer and paint. That will probably not happen until next weekend though. Either way, stay posted :-)

Pics:

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_30_zps8a90eca3.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_30_zps8a90eca3.jpg.html)
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_29_zpsf238d0b9.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_29_zpsf238d0b9.jpg.html)
The thing you see on the glass is just a reflection. It is not scratched.

Thanks for stopping by.

[rickztahone]

Oh, I forgot to mention that I had found the ADA platic grommet look alikes but sadly, the only clearance I have on the side is 5 1/2", The grommet is 6 1/2"! Missed it by one inch! Shame really. I will go with the round ones only, 2 grommets total for each hose, so a total of 8.

http://www.mockett.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/5e06319eda06f020e43594a9c230972d/M/o/Mockett-White-Large-Oval-Plastic-Grommet-LO3-95-600px.jpg
If you want to give these a try here is the link to the plastic grommets in quite a few colors : link here (http://www.mockett.com/wire-cable-management/plastic/lo.html)

http://www.mockett.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/5e06319eda06f020e43594a9c230972d/B/G/BG3-91_03A-600px.jpg
These are the ones I ended up going with. Of course I ordered the ones with no lid, for a few bucks each.

[musicmarn1]

This is a great thread! Good stuff, what are your plans for inside :D

[rickztahone]

This is a great thread! Good stuff, what are your plans for inside :D

5 adult APRT's from Josie or 5 adult Brilliant Turqs from Forrest (Kenny).

The contents of the tanks will be very simplistic, as everything else has been so far. So, that means, only sand, small driftwood piece to the right, and some stones. That's it. The discus will be the main focal point here.

[rickztahone]

Not sure if any of you are interested in the doors build but here goes:

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_31_zps61c8f019.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_31_zps61c8f019.jpg.html)
Glass channel cut with table saw. Make sure to sand the inside of the channel.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_32_zpsf40a22e9.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_32_zpsf40a22e9.jpg.html)
Mach lineup

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_34_zps96a0eea7.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_34_zps96a0eea7.jpg.html)
Gotta tint the glass too!

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_35_zps9f85d585.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_35_zps9f85d585.jpg.html)
Gotta build the 3 sides, making a U shape, leaving the last one off to slide in the glass. I used screws for the corners because I could not find the bit to do the corners. So decided to the 45 degree angles. I do not like this process as much, but at the end of the day it will work just fine. Used glue as well. Screw head was hidden by using a pilot guide, and it will eventually get filled in.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_36_zps0fcd0ec9.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_36_zps0fcd0ec9.jpg.html)
Gluing

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_37_zpsb4469b71.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_37_zpsb4469b71.jpg.html)
All done. Now to dry.



And the last one, just for fun; the tank all masked off to be painted:
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_33_zps93f0ac5a.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_33_zps93f0ac5a.jpg.html)
Didn't have time to take a pic of the trim painted, but will post it tomorrow.

[Mas84]

This is looking awesome! you had excellent skills!

[Disgirl]

Looks great Ricardo, are you a self taught carpenter or is this your job maybe? Very professional looking, it will be just wonderful with a tank and 5 discus on top of that new stand!
Barb

[rickztahone]

This is looking awesome! you had excellent skills!


Looks great Ricardo, are you a self taught carpenter or is this your job maybe? Very professional looking, it will be just wonderful with a tank and 5 discus on top of that new stand!
Barb

Thank you both very much. The only experience I have doing any carpentry was from 2 past stands I had in the past. It was a stand for my 55 and then another for 2 10g tanks. I guess I learned enough to decide to do this full build.

I had never done cabinet doors in this fashion, but, if you see my original drawn sketch, it had them, so I had to make the effort.

So long as your door frame is square, making the doors isn't that difficult. It just requires patience and a whole lot of re-measuring.

thanks for stopping by.

[Second Hand Pat]

Super nice build thread Rick. Well done and an inspiration to others :D
Pat

[rickztahone]

Thank you very much Pat. I can't wait to paint this thing so I can relax, lol. I will be purchasing the light real soon as well. LED strip, 24" since I do not need much light (no plants).

I needed a fixture that provided the sunrise/sunset feature, and found one for cheap on Amazon. I will review it and let you guys/gals know how I like it.

[dkeef]

wow rick, i didnt know i was talkin to a master carpenter here.
i love the frosted background. where can i get the film and how much was it?
i wanna do those on my fishroom tanks also.

[rickztahone]

wow rick, i didnt know i was talkin to a master carpenter here.
i love the frosted background. where can i get the film and how much was it?
i wanna do those on my fishroom tanks also.

You can buy the frost at home depot or Lowes for $20 or less. They only had the large size when I went and that was $20 but I know they carry a smaller size which is usually only around $12 or so. I still have plenty left over. If you just need to do a few tanks I can take what I have left and give it to you when I go over. If you need to do a whole lot of tanks then buying a few rolls should suffice. It is easy to apply and it gives a great appearance. I'm especially happy how the cabinet doors turned out. I placed the filters behind there just to see if you could make them out and they pretty much disappear a few inches from behind the frosted glass. I plan on putting an LED light behind the tank back to light it up. I also plan on putting a switch led light in the stand to see better. updates coming soon.

A list of things I still need to buy: (this is more a list so that I remember, lol)
-lily pipes. I believe the round ones that point up might be better for discus so that I get a lot of surface agitation.
-Light fixture, I know I will be going with this one (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00H3Y4YF8/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=UO4Z3YNWDDIR&coliid=IOSRPVNV7NE4O)
-This pool filter sand (http://www.acehardware.com/product/index.jsp?productId=11683357)
-Driftwood, I still don't know where I will be getting the DW. I have seen a few local CL people selling some and I get the benefit of seeing the pieces before I buy which is always nice. Leaning towards that.
-The LED strip lights. Still undecided about these. I see many options on Amazon for the strip lights but I'm not sure if that is what I want. I will keep searching.

That should pretty much cover it. Other than that I think I have bought everything. I will be getting a seeded sponge filter from Josie when I get my discus so that will be good. I already bought an xp3 and the tank came with an xp2, so that should be fine. I still had a hydor 300w heater lying around. So that keeps EVERYTHING out of the tank, and the clean look hopefully comes to pass. If I am missing something please chime in :)

[dkeef]

Busy man like me.
Hey how much comes in a roll. I need to cover multiple 8x2 backs.

[rickztahone]

Busy man like me.
Hey how much comes in a roll. I need to cover multiple 8x2 backs.

Off the top of my head I want to say 20', but I will check when I get home for you.

[rickztahone]

The tank is painted and all ready to go. It is inside the house now. Yay, one step closer.

Forgot the photo, woops:
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_38_zps7b875420.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_38_zps7b875420.jpg.html)

[musicmarn1]

Looking super! Cant wait to see what the final thing looks like :D

Still drooling over your planted tanks im about 3 years of effort from that level lol !

[Second Hand Pat]

The white trim definitely gives it a different look. Should look super once all put together. :D
Pat

[rickztahone]

Looking super! Cant wait to see what the final thing looks like :D

Still drooling over your planted tanks im about 3 years of effort from that level lol !
Thanks Marnie. The planted world is a whole other horse. So long as you get the principles down you should be good. My quick advice? When you plant, you should buy a whole lot of plants. You want to overload the tank with plants and then feed them enough nutrients and enough light. That is the most important imo. Many try learning as you go, I suggest to plan ahead, especially equipment wise. Get your co2, distribution, filtration and lights going first. I strongly suggest to have a fully going planted tank for quite a few months before you introduce discus/fauna. That is my 2 cents.


The white trim definitely gives it a different look. Should look super once all put together. :D
Pat
Thanks Pat. I am finally finished with the wood filling, finally! Tomorrow morning will be paint day. Unfortunately I'm still missing my grommets. I would have loved drilling before paint.

stay tuned.

[dkeef]

Nice!!!

[rickztahone]

Paint is done. Grommets still aren't here :(
The stand is staying outdoors today to air out. Being that tomorrow is Easter Sunday we won't be home all day. So, I won't see the tank on top of the stand till then.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/SideHolesforhoses_zpsa1cea085.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/SideHolesforhoses_zpsa1cea085.jpg.html)
8 White Grommets coming

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/Nocoat_zps2c6f9422.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/Nocoat_zps2c6f9422.jpg.html)
Before Paint

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/1Coat_zps5f826a0b.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/1Coat_zps5f826a0b.jpg.html)
1 Coat

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/3Coat_zpsfe2d1ea3.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/3Coat_zpsfe2d1ea3.jpg.html)
2 coats

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/2Coat_zpsddfdf5f7.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/2Coat_zpsddfdf5f7.jpg.html)
3 Coats

The doors are also done and ready to go but I haven't installed them yet to let them dry as well.

[rickztahone]

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7227/13928849261_af4212bd23_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ndQZBt)Updated 50g (https://flic.kr/p/ndQZBt) by rickztahone (https://www.flickr.com/people/52571731@N05/), on Flickr

Got it through the door. I'm leaving right now but set it up to where it will eventually be located. I just inserted the hoses to get a feel for how they will be ran. The lily pipes on their way. There will be lily pipes on both sides.

I still need the LED's.

Unfortunately, I couldn't get 6"+ discus like I originally planned. I am getting some 5.5" APRT's from Josie so that means I will have to grow them out just a bit more, which means, no sand and no Driftwood for now :(.

Later, when they reach 6-7" I will include the DW and sand. That light isn't staying either. I got my eye on an LED one that should look nicer. I just had this one lying around.

Let me know what you think.

[triplecrown333]

man, thats great work, looks better than most store bought setups...

[joanstone]

Wow, beautiful set up. Can't wait to see it with fish. Great job, you should be proud.

[rickztahone]

man, thats great work, looks better than most store bought setups...
Thank you very much. I initially thought about going store bought but I figured it wouldn't give me everything I wanted, so I did it myself.


Wow, beautiful set up. Can't wait to see it with fish. Great job, you should be proud.

I am actually very proud :). This is the largest and most time consuming DIY stand I have done thus far. Still waiting on the grommets to give it a more aesthetically pleasing look.

Here are a couple more shots:
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2937/13959085613_ca128cc6a1_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ngvXPT)Side View 50g (https://flic.kr/p/ngvXPT) by rickztahone (https://www.flickr.com/people/52571731@N05/), on Flickr
The hoses are being painted now for a more clean look.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7249/13959080523_3bea9dc946_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ngvWj8)Under the Stand xp2 xp3 (https://flic.kr/p/ngvWj8) by rickztahone (https://www.flickr.com/people/52571731@N05/), on Flickr
Got the heating covered and should be more than enough filtration. I got brand new media coming in, but Josie will also include a seeded filter in the order.

[wild-blue-discus]

looking good Rick

i found a couple of pics that are roughly the same size in that hard scape layout you like
http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/2a/d9/12/2ad912a06f2064a906ebec2727d91343.jpg

and

http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/a5/a5/f3/a5a5f3b8fe7e57ad94396273a25e0eb1.jpg

your tanks looking great cant wait to see it finished

[rickztahone]

Awesome Scott. For those that don't know, Scott's discus tank is the reason I chose to go in this clean style look. I saw his tank and fell absolutely in love with it. As I mentioned already though, I didn't get full adults so I can't scape the tank yet. I will let these guys put on some weight and size first and then add the sand and DW, which will be the only thing. I really hope Scott doesn't mind me linking to his photo here, but it is just me paying homage :)

http://wilddiscus.weebly.com/uploads/3/8/1/9/3819944/51235825_orig.jpg

Here is Scotts page for those interested:
http://wilddiscus.weebly.com/

[rickztahone]

Ok, now I get it. It's looking great. I looked into doing a frosted back at one point too. Have you seen what some people are doing with frosted backing, shadow boxes and lighting? It's pretty cool.

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1868825

Lastly, Joan, I'm actually thinking of making a "light box" behind my tank as opposed to the "shadow box". I'm thinking of making it from styro or something similar that I can find at the local home improvement store. I'm thinking of placing the led's in there to light up the back. I wont know what this will look like till I do it but I ordered the LED's from Amazon for $24 or something.

Now for the actual LED fixture........got to keep saving for that.....:p

[rickztahone]

Rigged up a drain system yesterday. I already had a 1 1/4 pvc pipe running to my front lawn. However, before, I would rely on a pump to get the water to the pvc pipe.

This setup allows me to use gravity as my siphon. I took the idea from the Rena filter siphon system and just made it bigger.

I fit everything in to place, without gluing it, just in case it didn't work, and at first it did not work. I pegged it to air leaking out somewhere and not creating enough of a suction. I believed the culprit was the hose to pvc outlet. I re-arranged the configuration so that there is a longer piece of pvc jutting out towards the tank, and inserted the hose in there. Lastly, one other thing that was not helping was that I was not filling up the pvc tube all the way with water. I needed 2 liters of water in order to get the water all the way up to the stand pipe. Once the water did get all the way up there, gravity did its thing as soon as I opened the ball valve.

On to the pics:
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_43_zps785bd41d.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_43_zps785bd41d.jpg.html)
These were the parts I initially bought. I did not end up using 3 of them however. I thought that I would need the end part of the hose as well as the cap to hold the siphon at all times but I found that I will prefer to just remove the end piece of pvc whenever I am not doing a WC. This way there isn't something jutting towards the tank when it isn't in use.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_44_zps165867ca.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_44_zps165867ca.jpg.html)
Ball valve will be at the bottom where my 1 1/4" pvc is already located.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_45_zps6806f8f7.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_45_zps6806f8f7.jpg.html)
You can basically see here I did not end up using all the pieces connected to the hose.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_46_zps654c2841.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_46_zps654c2841.jpg.html)
Dry fitting them together

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_47_zpsf096dc31.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_47_zpsf096dc31.jpg.html)
Everything is still dry fit. This is how the ball valve location looks. You can also see my water feed line though here. This will hopefully end up right next to the standing drain pipe.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_48_zps5fc3e090.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_48_zps5fc3e090.jpg.html)
Top of drain pipe. I ended up not using the piece connected to the hose and chose to go with the pvc only with the hose tucked in to it.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_49_zps4c6ad8c8.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_49_zps4c6ad8c8.jpg.html)
This is how the final product will look. Whenever I am not doing a WC I will simply remove the pvc piece that is jutting towards the tank.

Pretty straight forward drain system. No more relying on a pump to get the water out :)

[MKD]

Very nice Rick and well done. I'll drill a hole thru my window just like yours watering my garden. Mine will be connect to 1" drain bulkhead on side oh the tank. What did you use to drill stucco in the other side?

««««««««««« please excuse smart phone poster error »»»»»»»»»»

[dkeef]

Super nice rick. Impressive!

[rickztahone]

Very nice Rick and well done. I'll drill a hole thru my window just like yours watering my garden. Mine will be connect to 1" drain bulkhead on side oh the tank. What did you use to drill stucco in the other side?

««««««««««« please excuse smart phone poster error »»»»»»»»»»
If I remeber correctly I used a router. I just made sure there wasn't a stud or an electrical line.
Thanks for the compliment. It is coming along. I should have my fish shipped in the next couple of weeks. I still have to do a bleach run on the whole system.

Which reminds me, does anyone know if doing a bleaching on my tank (50g, this would be 5g of bleach) would be fine to dump in the front yard after I have added seachem safe? I don't want to ruin our plants flowers outside.

Super nice rick. Impressive!

Thanks Dave!

[musicmarn1]

very lovely Rick ! i love seeing DIY projects run wild - so how do you start the drain system? you said gravity but do you just put the hose in there and off it goes? ! wow

[rickztahone]

very lovely Rick ! i love seeing DIY projects run wild - so how do you start the drain system? you said gravity but do you just put the hose in there and off it goes? ! wow

Initially the draining part is started by loading water to the pvc stand pipe by way of screw cap at the top of the system. Close the ball valve, fill up, put cap back on, open the ball valve, and there you have a perfect drain! :)

[rickztahone]

Ok, this next project is one that I really had no idea how it would turn out. I call it "the light box" and I honestly feel it turned out great, but I am yet to see it correctly placed and worked on a little more to refine the look. I basically just dry tested like I have been doing with everything else. Let me know what you think.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_40_zps586a3020.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_40_zps586a3020.jpg.html)
Bought a large piece of Insulfoam for like $7. Measured twice and cut once, lol.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_41_zps3361dae4.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_41_zps3361dae4.jpg.html)
Cut everything to size. In this case, the back of my fish tank dimensions.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_42_zpse5e35140.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_42_zpse5e35140.jpg.html)
This is how it will be siliconed together.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_50_zps4f5de89f.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_50_zps4f5de89f.jpg.html)
A two person job. I used toothpicks to hold things in place while I siliconed.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_51_zps221cde28.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_51_zps221cde28.jpg.html)
All glued up and ready to go.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_52_zps577c43d8.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_52_zps577c43d8.jpg.html)
I don't have a picture of it but when I initially placed the led strip on the flat surface of the lightbox it was just too obvious when mounted. I simply folded some paper over a few times so that it angled the leds towards the inside of the box. Worked out fine.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_53_zps6eda4bc1.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_53_zps6eda4bc1.jpg.html)
This is what I was talking above. You can see how the white paper angled the leds towards the inside.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_54_zps9f545f82.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_54_zps9f545f82.jpg.html)
Finished product. Unfortunately, the led strip wasn't long enough to cover the bottom but I don't think this will be a problem. If you are interested in the LED strip you can find it on Amazon HERE (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00D4BWJBA/ref=oh_details_o01_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1). It comes with its own power supply already. Plug and play

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_55_zps43df846e.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_55_zps43df846e.jpg.html)
This is with only the lightbox on. You can obviously tell that this wasn't mounted properly. It was actually just propped on the top of the two corners. So, eventually, I will hang this on the wall, and the distance from the wall to the tank will diffuse the light even further.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_56_zps560794fe.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_56_zps560794fe.jpg.html)
This is with the light on as well. You might not be able to tell but the hanging light is actually pointed towards the back of the tank, exactly where the light box is. I haven't moved it to where the new fixture will be placed because the one coming in is smaller and I don't want to open new holes in the ceiling without having the light in hand.

Well, that is it for now. Tomorrow I will deal with cleaning up the edges and mounting it.


Ok, now I get it. It's looking great. I looked into doing a frosted back at one point too. Have you seen what some people are doing with frosted backing, shadow boxes and lighting? It's pretty cool.

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1868825

I still want to thank Joan because I kind of got the idea from the shadow box idea from the link provided. Put my own little turn on it.

[joanstone]

You're very welcome. Everything is coming out really, really well. I'm definitelygoing to have to try that myself at some point.

[rickztahone]

You're very welcome. Everything is coming out really, really well. I'm definitelygoing to have to try that myself at some point.

It was pretty cheap actually. About $30 total.

[rickztahone]

Update, got the Lily pipes, Finally! All the way from HK. They are pretty large bulbs. Much larger than I thought, about fist size, lol. I really like them though. Unfortunately, after I installed the lily pipes I found out that the XP2 isn't working, :(. I'm not sure if it is the impeller or a gasket. I will have to troubleshoot tomorrow. BTW, does anyone know if xp2 and xp3 parts are interchangeable? I want to troubleshoot with the xp3 parts on the xp2, but don't want to mess anything up.

As always, on to the pics:
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_71_zps76d624b6.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_71_zps76d624b6.jpg.html)
They were shipped very well. Great seller. these 2 sets came out to $85 shipped! Back when I had my 10g tanks I paid over $100 for acrylic ones!

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_72_zpsc2bb4b5e.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_72_zpsc2bb4b5e.jpg.html)
Good sized bowl

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_78_zpsa1830adf.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_78_zpsa1830adf.jpg.html)
On the tank, side view

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_73_zpsfa6fad80.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_73_zpsfa6fad80.jpg.html)
from the inside side view

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_74_zps792e09f7.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_74_zps792e09f7.jpg.html)
Trying to keep that clean look. From this point forward there will not be any additional items in the tank, except for the seeded air pump filter that Josie will be sending with the discus. It is to help my filter colonize bacteria.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_75_zpsc381edbb.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_75_zpsc381edbb.jpg.html)
another side view

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_76_zps25078985.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_76_zps25078985.jpg.html)
Full tank shot

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_77_zps7b4ac49c.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_77_zps7b4ac49c.jpg.html)
With the light box turned on. I thought I took one with the main fixture on but I guess I forgot.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_78_zpsa1830adf.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_78_zpsa1830adf.jpg.html)
You can see the grommets very clearly here. They really added a nice touch.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_79_zps4537889d.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_79_zps4537889d.jpg.html)
And lastly, put an LED light inside the stand. It came in handy when dealing with the filters today. Unfortunately, the culprit (xp2) wasn't cooperating, which means I couldn't run the bleaching today. grrrr...

Oh, by the way, further testing showed that my siphon system was a failure. It initially works and after a few seconds it will stop working. I believe I know what the problem is. I believe what is happening is that the air at the end of the pvc is actually filling up with air, and since the pvc is so wide, the air travels right up to the top of the siphon system and breaks the siphon. Generally, this wouldn't happen with a long hose because it is thin and the air can never climb up the hose, if that makes sense. So, I had to resort to getting a submersible pump. Luckily, I had one at my mothers house.

Just the LED fixture left and the fish themselves.

I also tweeked the temperature valve and now the water is coming out at a consistant 84F :-).

I can see the finish line...

[dkeef]

Most overdone elegant 50 gal in the world. Nice job rick!

[rickztahone]

Most overdone elegant 50 gal in the world. Nice job rick!

Says the person with the most tanks as a hobbyist in California :p

Thanks Dave.

After speaking to you guys I feel kind of dumb that I overbuilt the stand so much, lol. If I ever decide to put a 240 super duper tall on this stand, I will have no doubt it will support it.

[Argentum]

What's the lily pipes for?

[rickztahone]

What's the lily pipes for?

The only real point of the lily pipes is aesthetics. I did not want there to be unnecessary items in the tank like heaters and such. Obviously you need to have a filter, so I chose to try to hide those as well with lily pipes.

[Argentum]

The only real point of the lily pipes is aesthetics. I did not want there to be unnecessary items in the tank like heaters and such. Obviously you need to have a filter, so I chose to try to hide those as well with lily pipes.

It looks cool. so its just a transparent intake and return.

I suggest something different here, position the two intakes on one side and the two returns on the other, this way you will produce an even steady flow for the current.

With your current setup you have two opposing systems which will produce turbulence.

I don't really know if having a steady directional current is beneficial in any way or the opposite for turbulence, I always try to avoid turbulence

[rickztahone]

It looks cool. so its just a transparent intake and return.

I suggest something different here, position the two intakes on one side and the two returns on the other, this way you will produce an even steady flow for the current.

With your current setup you have two opposing systems which will produce turbulence.

I don't really know if having a steady directional current is beneficial in any way or the opposite for turbulence, I always try to avoid turbulence

Indeed, it is just a glass intake and return. Word of caution for lily pipes though, they get super dirty quickly. What I use to do with my acrylic ones was to dip them in a bleach solution for a few minutes every month or so.

With regards to the turbulence, they aren't directly opposing each other. As it stands, the filter on the left (XP3) has the return on the side closest to the front of the tank. On the opposite side, the filter on the right has the return on the side furthest away from the front of the tank. The flow isn't that great on the xp2 which will have the heater as well. Hopefully this will not be too much flow. The configuration you suggest would be too much hose under the tank and it just isn't something I would like to do. If, however, I see that my discus are not comfortable with this configuration, I can change it up down the line. I will deal with that bridge when I get there though.

[wild-blue-discus]

this is looking bad *** rick! love those white pipes!

[rickztahone]

Thanks Scott! In all honesty I kind of wish I would have painted the background white rather than the light box. The more I see the slightly blue hue of the leds, the less I like it. I will have to ser how it looks with discus in there though.

[wild-blue-discus]

that always easy to fix, you still going with hardscape? we are about to do a few videos on hardscaping

[rickztahone]

that always easy to fix, you still going with hardscape? we are about to do a few videos on hardscaping

Yes, but further down the line. Unfortunately, my original plan was to go with adults but the only APRT's I could find were 5.5", so I want to grow them out to about 6.5" or so before I do a hardscape. BB for growing out, as mundane as it looks, this is the best way to do it.

[rickztahone]

Awesome, sold a lens on ebay and I bought my LED fixture. It should be here in a few days. I bought the 24" one and plan to suspended a bit high to get better coverage. Keep in mind that I will never keep plants in this tank so high light output isn't needed. I did however want to have the sunrise/sunset effect which this fixture offers. It is this Aquatic Life LED Light fixture (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00H3Y4YF8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

Here are the specs for the one I got:
24-Inch Item #420284 fits Aquarium Frames between 23.5 Inches and 26.25 Inches - LED Complement: (13) 6K White, (14) 9K White, (17) 10K White, (3) Blue, (7) Red, (3) Blue Lunar LED's

Here are the specs for the other two sizes:
36-Inch Item #420285 fits Aquarium Frames between 35.0 Inches and 38.25 Inches - LED Complement: (21) 6K White, (21) 9K White, (24) 10K White, (7) Blue, (11) Red, (3) Blue Lunar LED's
48-Inch Item #420286 fits Aquarium Frames between 47.0 Inches and 50.25 Inches - LED Complement: (27) 6K White, (27) 9K White, (33) 10K White, (7) Blue, (14) Red, (6) Blue Lunar LED's

I'm more worried about the red channel, but we shall see how it goes. I'll post a little mini review after I've had it for a while.

[rickztahone]

Finally! Everything is finally done!
The xp2 had a bad impeller. I bought the impeller and it came in on Saturday. Ran 1:10 bleach to water ratio through the whole system. Emptied/Rinsed twice and used a whole lot of SAFE, lol.

The LED fixture should come in on the 15th. The discus will come in tomorrow. Can't wait!

Only the back lightbox was available for this pic :)
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b284/rickztahone/FishTank_80_zpsc81f073c.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/rickztahone/media/FishTank_80_zpsc81f073c.jpg.html)

Sry for the bubbles. I checked pH and it was stable from one day to the next. They go away fairly quickly.

[MKD]

Very exciting and can't wait to see it up running.

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[dkeef]

YEA!

[rickztahone]

The day of arrival has come! Please enjoy the unboxing video below:

http://youtu.be/miXrVtl62Qk
Direct Link to YT (http://youtu.be/miXrVtl62Qk)

All in all, the packaging was great, the discus have been doing well so far. A few still have some clamped fins, but this is to be expected. It has been a few hours since I got them in and they are freely moving about the tank now. Color is coming back nicely. Of course we always tell everyone not to take photos of discus as soon as they arrive, but seriously, who can resist? Not I, says I, so enjoy the following photos:
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7456/13993070669_cdef067c43_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/njw9p8)Fish Tank_81 (https://flic.kr/p/njw9p8) by rickztahone (https://www.flickr.com/people/52571731@N05/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7407/13993098688_240abab9a3_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/njwhJd)Fish Tank_82 (https://flic.kr/p/njwhJd) by rickztahone (https://www.flickr.com/people/52571731@N05/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7346/14199869203_601ce8ecb2_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/nCN3p6)Fish Tank_83 (https://flic.kr/p/nCN3p6) by rickztahone (https://www.flickr.com/people/52571731@N05/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7332/13993115027_a9a3d6a48f_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/njwnzV)Fish Tank_84 (https://flic.kr/p/njwnzV) by rickztahone (https://www.flickr.com/people/52571731@N05/), on Flickr

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2898/13993096100_e7cb1d53fa_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/njwgXA)Fish Tank_85 (https://flic.kr/p/njwgXA) by rickztahone (https://www.flickr.com/people/52571731@N05/), on Flickr

I honestly can not remember if these were all pics of the same fish, lol. I don't quite know them yet. I hope you enjoy the vid and the pics. More coming whenever the settle in.

[jmf3460]

beautiful fish! I enjoyed the video even with no sound (im at work) what a clean and neat looking tank you have there, those fish should feel like they are in a pharmaceutical plant everything is so white and sterile looking. enjoy your fish!

[MKD]

Very nice Piwow Turqs, Rick. I'm jealous, now you need to save me a pair hahaha

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[RichT]

Nice group you have Rick!! They all look beautiful. Looking forward to following their changes through your fine photography.

[rickztahone]

beautiful fish! I enjoyed the video even with no sound (im at work) what a clean and neat looking tank you have there, those fish should feel like they are in a pharmaceutical plant everything is so white and sterile looking. enjoy your fish!
Lol, thanks. I ran with the white theme, I will admit. I can't wait to add sand and DW though. Hopefully they all grow another 1"-1.5" and then I can hardscape.


Very nice Piwow Turqs, Rick. I'm jealous, now you need to save me a pair hahaha

««««««««««« please excuse smart phone poster error »»»»»»»»»»
You need to get those 2 pairs so I can gawk at your Piwows!


Nice group you have Rick!! They all look beautiful. Looking forward to following their changes through your fine photography.
Thank you for the nice words Rich. My hope is to just get at least 1 of my turqs anywhere near the turq you have on your avatar. Nothing but heavy feeding and WC from here on out.... :crazy:

[Chicago Discus]

This is the first time we got a play by play of the discus we sent out, I absolutely love the video. They will be great in your hands and care :). We included a free fish in this order as pre our conversation. This was the last male we had and wanted to send him with the four females. He is perfect but slightly beaky so thats why he was free :):):).....Enjoy......Josie

[rickztahone]

A new thread has been started Here (http://forum.simplydiscus.com/showthread.php?114060-Welcome-to-the-Clean-House-Of-Turqs) to show a month-to-month progress journal if you are interested.