New 300 gallon bare bottom discus community tank in work

[MKD]

I'm ordering acrylic 96x30x24" tank with external overflow on the side which will be my discus community tank in my living room. I'm still working on sump 48x20x18" but not final yet. Yesterday, I had good friends came over helping on stand. Here are some pics.


http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/13/3usuhuge.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/13/y8ahuqap.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/13/8abaju5e.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/13/e8a4a3y9.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/13/uvahudem.jpg

[musicmarn1]

Can you describe your overflow/filtration system in detail please? I'm desperately trying to figure out a way to reduce hands on work for my 240g with the 4 drilled holes in the tank, its a reef overflow set up and want to do the best job with it.

Best of luck on your set up! Excitingly big !

[MKD]

Hi Marnie,

here are some ideas / options of overflow. mine is external overflow similar pic #8

http://www.marineaquariumsa.com/beginner-discussions/19407-types-overflows-illustrated-guide.html

and here is better explanation
http://www.glassreef.com/basics_overflow.php

Hth,
Tony


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[dkeef]

Very nice

[DiscusLoverJeff]

Nice start Tony. Can't wait to see it all set up.

[Nick Klimkowski]

It is looking great Tony, I was just building my stands today as well.:)

[kkdiscus]

The rack / stand looks SOLID! Can't wait to see the TANK!

[Nick Klimkowski]

When will the 300 gallon be in?

[MKD]

Thank you everyone. I only able to our in couple hours each weekend but will update asap. Hopefully we'll be done couple weeks and tank up running sometime in June.

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[MKD]

Here what we have done this week

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/21/ajyry2en.jpg
82233

82234



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[MKD]

82237

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/21/yre3yjer.jpg

82238



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[MKD]

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/21/aqanaje3.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/21/2avejy9u.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/21/uharu5a5.jpg




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[MKD]

i would like to cut 2 front openings.Now I need to find a router on Craiglist or find someone can help on this. Other than that, we may finish molding and stain next week.

82239

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[rdiscus]

Great project ... can't wait to see discus in that big tank :)

[alcastro]

Great job Tony

[rickztahone]

Even with a router I have found it difficult to do drop in precision cuts. An electric saw with small fine blade will work better ime. Looking great so far though. How much did you spend on plywood?

[MKD]

Great project ... can't wait to see discus in that big tank :)


Great job Tony

thank you Ryan and Al




Even with a router I have found it difficult to do drop in precision cuts. An electric saw with small fine blade will work better ime. Looking great so far though. How much did you spend on plywood?
Thank you Rick for your advice, will check with local shop if they will do it for me. As far as plywoods, I know i spend quiet $$$ on those. Once this tank running, i don't ever want to the tank down rebuild the stand or replace another one (it's ok do another set up :) ). You know we all spend more money on discus than tanks :) minus well make it worth.

[rickztahone]

thank you Ryan and Al




Thank you Rick for your advice, will check with local shop if they will do it for me. As far as plywoods, I know i spend quiet $$$ on those. Once this tank running, i don't ever want to the tank down rebuild the stand or replace another one (it's ok do another set up :) ). You know we all spend more money on discus than tanks :) minus well make it worth.

:laugh:

This is true.

[MKD]

Another week went by. I found a local guy who cut the door openings. Here are what we have done on it and can't thank you enough to Derrick, David, Tan for their helps. It should be done soon, just need some touch up and stain it in cognac color with clear coat on top. It's getting closer and closer and very excited to get it running.


https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ZVPEGLgz7S0/U13-XYUb_MI/AAAAAAAAGtU/x0j5019nm0g/w720-h408-no/IMAG1054.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-k6rMH6eTlbM/U13-EInxVJI/AAAAAAAAGs0/hlDSUm0xjHM/w720-h540-no/20140427_144622.jpg

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rHKCjm00mf8/U13-IzkvsWI/AAAAAAAAGs8/Fyep8rUqQ_Q/w720-h540-no/20140427_144627.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-C7ItOTHrmZg/U13-Tp7ZIvI/AAAAAAAAGtM/3tMWFLBwdZE/w720-h540-no/20140427_144633.jpg

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-knUN3fM66M8/U13-d0J5vKI/AAAAAAAAGuo/nBZGS7d9Vqk/w747-h423-no/IMAG1056.jpg


https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-u6rBf5M2nn4/U13-rt7MxVI/AAAAAAAAGuE/3MyXl90dxOs/w747-h423-no/IMAG1057.jpg


https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-wTvZxWVpeU4/U13-k7lSZzI/AAAAAAAAGt0/c1DiVsCxMWk/w747-h423-no/IMAG1058.jpg

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-CjZxr-yO4YY/U13-oE0Ej9I/AAAAAAAAGt8/52gguzrKG6I/w747-h423-no/IMAG1059.jpg


https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ZeKohnnCgpk/U13-aVnpgbI/AAAAAAAAGtc/LUa5OAST2qI/w747-h423-no/IMAG1061.jpg

[JmDiscuss]

Hey just one question, you think you can fit it in the door way to where you want it to be placed? That is big, looks nice, gives me Ideas..

Jerry

[MKD]

It's around 32" fron to back, It shouldn't be a problem.

[dkeef]

thats one fancy STAND!

[Quintin]

it's on wheels... cool i gotta get me one of those

[MKD]

No, wheels are not attached. It's on a flat dolly way to move it around. Once it's done, it'll be on floor.

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[alcastro]

That is well made piece of furniture with nice details


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[DiscusLoverJeff]

Nice job on the stand Tony. Looks very elegant once completed.

Can't wait to see the final project.

[JmDiscuss]

Yes it is a nice piece, Think there should be affordable place that make fish stands, the ones you get at petsmark are not real good.

[bwssr]

Nice job on the stand. Are you making a canopy for it too?

[Kal-El]

Looks great... you did an awesome job building the stand... looking forward to seeing the tanks and fish on the stand...

[D'Rock]

you are very welcome buddy. we'll finish it by this weekend...

[MKD]

it's getting closer and here are some updated pics using Cognac stain color with exterior clear finish coat to protect it from water




https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-KTJz2xS2zy8/U2kBlkgS9BI/AAAAAAAAGvQ/R70L5rXLodY/w958-h719-no/20140503_174313.jpg

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-deer8ipK-mo/U2kBfqaQWPI/AAAAAAAAGvA/us6eeCyk4jk/w596-h795-no/20140503_174121.jpg


Finish clear coat with Flash

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-s0tlNHvUWaw/U2kByaf-QfI/AAAAAAAAGvw/S24NC1ZBo5U/w720-h407-no/IMAG1084.jpg


No Flash
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3Cja8mk2AIE/U2kBzojksGI/AAAAAAAAGv4/00o7uRpoV_Q/w720-h407-no/IMAG1083.jpg

[JmDiscuss]

it's getting closer and here are some updated pics using Cognac stain color with exterior clear finish coat to protect it from water




https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-KTJz2xS2zy8/U2kBlkgS9BI/AAAAAAAAGvQ/R70L5rXLodY/w958-h719-no/20140503_174313.jpg

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-deer8ipK-mo/U2kBfqaQWPI/AAAAAAAAGvA/us6eeCyk4jk/w596-h795-no/20140503_174121.jpg


Finish clear coat with Flash

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-s0tlNHvUWaw/U2kByaf-QfI/AAAAAAAAGvw/S24NC1ZBo5U/w720-h407-no/IMAG1084.jpg


No Flash
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3Cja8mk2AIE/U2kBzojksGI/AAAAAAAAGv4/00o7uRpoV_Q/w720-h407-no/IMAG1083.jpg


Really like that finish, looks great, keep the pictures coming

Jerry

[dkeef]

Super tony. Invite me in when its all done bro

[Second Hand Pat]

Tony, this is coming along very nice. Great choice on the stain. I like that you finished inside the stand too.
Pat

[Disgirl]

Gee, with such a beautiful stand, I cant wait to see what will be going on top of it! Well done!
Barb

[MKD]

thank you guys. You know once the tank up running, it's so hard to change or modify the stand. Plus, I saw many stands gone bad after short period of time and damage by water. I like to over build it with peace of mind and it's fun doing it. I hope, i'll get the tank soon and will work on plumbing.

[rickztahone]

I can assure you without a doubt that I would have HATED staining that huge stand, lol. I hate staining so much. I have tried to stain so many things and have never been fully successful. There must be some kind of technique that I am just missing or something, lol. So, to you, I say, AWESOME JOB! It came out great.

[D'Rock]

The technique is to get someone else to do it while Tony supervise. He's a smart guy I tell ya. Then again good things happen to nice people like him.



I can assure you without a doubt that I would have HATED staining that huge stand, lol. I hate staining so much. I have tried to stain so many things and have never been fully successful. There must be some kind of technique that I am just missing or something, lol. So, to you, I say, AWESOME JOB! It came out great.

[MKD]

And good guy has great friends like you :) can't thank you enough for all of you guys helping me.

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[Quintin]

Really lovely stand.im keeping tabs on this thread.really cant wait to see the finished result.Keep it up

[dkeef]

The technique is to get someone else to do it while Tony supervise. He's a smart guy I tell ya. Then again good things happen to nice people like him.

well isnt he taking pictures of their work tho? lol...

[trungnguyen]

Labor fee: one discus per a day. Random pick


Trung.

[MKD]

1 discus a day is way under pay :) thank you Trung for your helps.

[MKD]

I moved it in side the house to see how it looks but still need to work on doors and canopy/light hanger (it won't be a full canopy, just half that it can be slided in and out).

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-O_yahTBP9bc/U3D4IPJFLyI/AAAAAAAAG0E/f44g0Xj_n0I/w720-h540-no/20140508_065804.jpg


https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-LJUbInomkXY/U3D35t2NfLI/AAAAAAAAGzs/7tAoQyKkIUw/w720-h540-no/20140507_201521.jpg




received plumbing parts.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-av9iHJfad8k/U3D3-2_EmtI/AAAAAAAAGz0/2wlzocUUBGA/w720-h540-no/20140510_145958.jpg

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-xVwmEa9v8E8/U3D32__MXII/AAAAAAAAGzk/OvqgCyjseKg/w720-h540-no/20140510_150018.jpg



Testing the background, paint on styrofoam which will can replace or change anytime. (maybe will let the kids draw whatever they want on it :) , that's fun)

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-HJj7ORsvMM8/U3D4NmWwPZI/AAAAAAAAG0U/HJiF4I8lqPs/w720-h540-no/20140508_193757.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-mxBkvr5apLw/U3D3xvUiE0I/AAAAAAAAGzc/b0m4iX9LqUQ/w720-h540-no/20140508_193738.jpg

[trungnguyen]

Looks like green algae to me lol


Trung.

[MKD]

that's my purpose not to scrub it every water change :)

[MKD]

Finally, we finish it and here how it looks like. I can't wait to see tank sitting on it.


https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-x7kOfsL6LVw/U3mEiVJU0BI/AAAAAAAAG1I/O5zPyLPwN_8/w712-h403-no/IMAG1103.jpg

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Z2OJHXn32Xc/U3mE4xqK0uI/AAAAAAAAG2I/ywbMjtvRNJM/w712-h403-no/IMAG1104.jpg

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2oHV1ZCU6jw/U3mEsb2qRAI/AAAAAAAAG14/-dIY4G5vaqU/w712-h403-no/IMAG1108.jpg

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-6xIWepWGBDM/U3mEptnSagI/AAAAAAAAG1o/OJVzUXisjfs/w712-h403-no/IMAG1107.jpg

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-g3kdvPyVnvE/U3mErFroEyI/AAAAAAAAG1w/z9taPaAMB0c/w712-h403-no/IMAG1111.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-lhjOqpkKAEM/U3mEnaypvAI/AAAAAAAAG1Y/FFqxuXhPM08/w712-h403-no/IMAG1112.jpg

again thank you Derrick, David, Trung, Tan for all your helps and I can't do it without all of you.

[MKD]

For a call, tank should be done this week. I'm excited and can't wait to work on it.

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[Second Hand Pat]

That stand looks awesome and you will love those extra wide doors. It will make moving, organizing and servicing stuff so much easier.

[trungnguyen]

Tony, I can't wait to swim in there to test the tank for you, lol


Trung.

[MKD]

That stand looks awesome and you will love those extra wide doors. It will make moving, organizing and servicing stuff so much easier.
Yeah , I love wild openings for big sump or hiding couple tanks :)



Tony, I can't wait to swim in there to test the tank for you, lol

Trung, get your swimming suit ready.


Trung.

[MKD]

They are here. Tank and sump are well made by Advance Acrylic. They did some extras that i did not know or mention on my sketch order and very impressive works. I am very please and can't wait to work on plumbing :)

- 96x30x24" 3/4" acrylic tank rounded all corners with external overflow box on side with 2x 1.5" bulkheads and 1" quick drain bulkhead 8" from bottom.
- 48x20x18" (highest point 23") with 3 trays, rounded all corners

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-du16Y64wSGk/U3sGe2-2JjI/AAAAAAAAG3A/pE2kQKFujYE/w727-h411-no/IMAG1116.jpg

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-8WqL6Te-D38/U3sG_GJsz9I/AAAAAAAAG4A/ksdUZWwxNJ0/w728-h546-no/20140519_203217.jpg

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pGW7XLzU5ho/U3sGiPsUVnI/AAAAAAAAG3I/Y6C8RbeKrlQ/w728-h412-no/IMAG1114.jpg

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-OvfFvT-ga9Q/U3sGjI-ps1I/AAAAAAAAG3Q/l1SJeBEKBUs/w728-h412-no/IMAG1117.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-hN8t7-ZlLho/U3sGbXyzIvI/AAAAAAAAG2w/mnNoz-BbDBw/w958-h542-no/IMAG1121.jpg

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UwetvX1hzOc/U3sGd_gOfdI/AAAAAAAAG24/6Lxci5t6fbE/w958-h542-no/IMAG1123.jpg

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PexhDvw90GM/U3sGZRCQwgI/AAAAAAAAG2o/pv9-2Y-2M6o/w958-h542-no/IMAG1122.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-p8Sxe7MsiD0/U3sGXFZEXMI/AAAAAAAAG2g/RqsDxH4V0w4/w958-h542-no/IMAG1124.jpg

[buddha1200]

Nice!

Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk

[marinum]

Fantastic .... good job

[bleublaze55]

That stand and tank look awesome! Maybe you answered this earlier, but will you be moving the TV? HAHA!
Also, not sure if it is a concern, but your local home improvement store sells these mats that are carpet on top and rubberized on the bottom. I use them underneath all my aquariums and they work fantastic at holding in the occasional spilling or plumbing problem. So far after 3 years and a few flood moments, no funky smells. With your hard wood floors it may be something to consider. I also used two pieces of plywood that are treated for water underneath the bigger tank.

[Kal-El]

Awesome. Looking forward to the finish setup.

[rickztahone]

Very nice Tony. The sump looks super well made. Who were the manufacturers again?

[MKD]

Nice!

Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk

thank you, duddha1200


Fantastic .... good job

Thank you marinum


That stand and tank look awesome! Maybe you answered this earlier, but will you be moving the TV? HAHA!
Also, not sure if it is a concern, but your local home improvement store sells these mats that are carpet on top and rubberized on the bottom. I use them underneath all my aquariums and they work fantastic at holding in the occasional spilling or plumbing problem. So far after 3 years and a few flood moments, no funky smells. With your hard wood floors it may be something to consider. I also used two pieces of plywood that are treated for water underneath the bigger tank.

believe it or not, We don't have cable/direct tv for 10+ years (myself 20+). We watch it just a little and there is a tv in kid toy room. As far as treated wood, i use outdoor weather proof oil base finish all sides. so far i had bad flood/over spill in garage but not in side the house and i can't afford to flood in the house cause wife will not be happy (knock on wood) .




Awesome. Looking forward to the finish setup.

thank you Kal-El

Very nice Tony. The sump looks super well made. Who were the manufacturers again?
thank you Rick, this is my custom design sump made by Advance Acrylic.

[MKD]

it's time to fill it up. I am planning to use some media from other tank to cycle it. What do you think about the background?



Warning for those not use to bare bottom



https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TrX4Sw8rvLo/U5BZsaC_jsI/AAAAAAAAG8Q/1xthHLFKWw4/w958-h719-no/20140601_170053.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Bw0EqcHYYZM/U5BZBt0gYyI/AAAAAAAAG7A/mageYtqtUc0/w728-h546-no/20140601_205606.jpg


https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-NktRv06JoD8/U5BZbZ9HBlI/AAAAAAAAG7w/k-vVd1KTPDs/w728-h546-no/20140604_220325.jpg


1# background litte green from pic (paint on styro foam)

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-7ju8P3EEsjo/U5Bas1d0JkI/AAAAAAAAG-A/6ckyk--jOZs/w728-h546-no/20140604_214917.jpg


2# other background

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-JSwBkOmrem8/U5BbtT7J_KI/AAAAAAAAG_g/gJCCH535VLA/w728-h546-no/20140604_220322.jpg


Inside overflow box
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0r-gUKHmz_U/U5BZoe3HfmI/AAAAAAAAG8I/hyAjNkzZjSI/w620-h827-no/20140529_211509.jpg

[musicmarn1]

Don't think I like the green, though I was thinking the same thing myself so glad I got to see you try it first haha! I just did mine boring black in the end spray painted it, will save for 3 d later.

I'm sat here today, in front of my empty 240g and 80g sump, was supposed to be water day today, we live in bufu...so have no help for lifting and I blew all my budgets on fish LOL so we find out after everything, the thing wasn't level, we know we made it level, ugh! The floor must be the issue anyway added thick carpet and it's now level, but can you help me figure out how to make the bulkheads fit nkw?

Do I drill the holes wider since carpet makes it a longer connection, can't find any longer bulkheads, where did you order yours?

So bummed! But yours is amazing well done

[dkeef]

#2 man, #1 looks like u haven't cleaned algae in awhile.

I went BB on my new 150 with mishkas discus in yesterday. I can tolerate this! Good JOB!

[ktltn04]

Very nice. #2 look better

[MKD]

I hear you Marnie. I can't lift it up myself, luckly i have some good friends around. It took few people to lift it up. Don't rush it, you'll get it done.
Anyway, if i understand you correctly. you need to level the tank and put carpet under the tank? is your tank on the floor? if not, you can put carpet under the stand to level it. Schedule 80 bulkhead is longer than regular one and you can get those on amazon, ebay... i got mine from bulkreefsupply site.

what is "nkw?"

[alcastro]

#2


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Discusdude7]

I like #2 better

[MKD]

#2 man, #1 looks like u haven't cleaned algae in awhile.
it looks more natural, so i don't have scrub the tank anymore hahaha



Very nice. #2 look better
i think so but its so plain and common.

[chaoslite]

#2 man, #1 looks like u haven't cleaned algae in awhile.

I went BB on my new 150 with mishkas discus in yesterday. I can tolerate this! Good JOB!

How are they settling in? Those guys probably do not even know they have left. And yes you can tolerate it.

Tony #2 please. #1 does look like algae.

Mishka

[MKD]

thank you Al, Dudediscus 7, Mishka.

[Kohen]

# 2
That's a beautiful tank. I can't wait to see it completed.

[trungnguyen]

Green is my favorite color, but that green...com'on Tony. I don't want to swim in that algae tank.
Number 2 is much cleaner and better. Don't worry about plain and common. Your colorful discus will do the rest. You have been the best, now let them do the rests.

[MKD]

Here are tonight tests from left to right, Nitrate, Nitrite, Ammonia.

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-SvVBBEFeFYA/U5qcPsG15RI/AAAAAAAAHB4/0P083nUrgW4/w811-h608-no/20140612_232938.jpg

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-pklIMb1_2Yc/U5qcHISiWoI/AAAAAAAAHBg/Kn-D_8l80sI/w800-h600-no/20140612_232854.jpg

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uesjAeqiDg0/U5qcB3aSXmI/AAAAAAAAHBQ/Rxtm17y4np8/w800-h600-no/20140612_233111.jpg

[trungnguyen]

It's ready for me to swim in there :)


Trung.

[marinum]

swim with Discus :-)

[mee]

I like blue backgrounds, and the light blue looks nice... but I would really like to see how the green looks with fish in the tank. Guess I am the only one though.

[For100]

Can you share picture of how you set up the external over flow? I just ordered a tank from John (custom acrylics) and it is the first time I use an external over flow, don't want to commit any rookie mistake. Instead of be on the side, it will be on the back. So, pumbling lines should not be an issue but a bit concern on how water will be flowing back into the tank.

[Second Hand Pat]

Tony, if you like the green try a softer, lighter green...like a sage green with a hint of blue.

[ktltn04]

I'm ready for a swim with discus :))))

[MKD]

I'm ready for a swim with discus :))))


swim with Discus :-)


It's ready for me to swim in there :)


Trung.

It's time to shop for swimming suit and only swimming suit allow with discus hahaha. I let you know when it's ready to dive in.

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[MKD]

I like blue backgrounds, and the light blue looks nice... but I would really like to see how the green looks with fish in the tank. Guess I am the only one though.

I used to have sea blue background on my 180 tank but want to try something else and bigger. Thank you for your suggestion, will see I might change it down the road cause it's clear back and I make it easy asset to change it.

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[MKD]

Can you share picture of how you set up the external over flow? I just ordered a tank from John (custom acrylics) and it is the first time I use an external over flow, don't want to commit any rookie mistake. Instead of be on the side, it will be on the back. So, pumbling lines should not be an issue but a bit concern on how water will be flowing back into the tank.

Sure I'll post some pics from my phone (not best pix). There are couple reasons I'll go with side overflow box:
- cosmetic season, don't want to see anything in the back.
- easy to maintenance. It's 30" wide, it is impossible to clean it from standing in front.

Here are some pics

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/15/baqyrumy.jpg

Im using Herbie style ( I posted link earlier) with 2 x 1 1/2" bulkhead, 1 will do 85% or more go down to sump which it requires the gate valve to adjust water flows. And other is emergency drain which will take the remain 15% or less. It's very quite.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/15/9ypube9u.jpg


http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/15/pujyva3y.jpg

As you can see, the one with gate valve is the main drain pipe, other is emergency drain. The one close to the front is a 1" quick drain pipe.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/15/ere7ahy2.jpg
The quick drain valve will connect to this to my backyard water my plants. Just turn the valve for water change.


Let go down to the sump. There are 3 trays for filtration which makes easy for me to maintenance it daily.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/15/vy9yzu5y.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/15/utu5u8ah.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/15/y7a5emym.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/15/ve9upyje.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/15/etuzu3us.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/15/5esuzuhy.jpg

Finally I'm using Jebao Dc9000 pump with 1" hose then the Y split into 2x 3/4" returns to the tank.




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[MKD]

Tony, if you like the green try a softer, lighter green...like a sage green with a hint of blue.
Thank you Pat. My background pics don't show its really color, it's little lighter in person. But still playing with background.

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[For100]

Thanks for the prompt reply.
Can you share more in the returns? I am have similar overflow setup for my 180g today, but internal instead. My return runs into the internal overflow to the to top of the tank and the a diffuser to disperse water current going in.

If I run an external overflow, I am clueless on how and where returns will be place and I have not talk to John about where he was going to do it. He mentioned 2 3/4 returns, left and right, but that is about it. Not sure if will be in the back, bottom. Etc. I don't want to have to much sufarce current it will mess with my CO2 set up. Let me share a picture of what I have on my next post.

[For100]

here it is

82639

[MKD]

Here is from the sump. Pump connect to check valve to prevent water flood back into sump when pump is not working. Then connect to Y go outside of the tank to the top (I do this because don't want any hole in the back and for future I can turn it to the front :) )

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/16/ama3ese2.jpg

Pump to check valve
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/16/uvudu4ad.jpg


Top into the tank.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/16/rebuvanu.jpg


Connect to lock line spray.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/16/qe4urube.jpg


Hope this helps
Tony
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[MKD]

here it is

82639

Very nice. You should enter this month contest.

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[For100]

I think Due date is long passed due. If the admins allow it, I guess I can jump in.

[For100]

Sorry for so many questions, Are the sprays pipes on top of the brazing or do the connect in the back panel thru bulk heads?

[MKD]

No worry. The reason posting here, we are all sharing and learning each others.

They are connecting from pvc connectors
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/16/4ypusary.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/16/asatyjus.jpg

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[nc0gnet0]

Tony,

Are those trickle trays I am seeing in your sump?


-Rick

[MKD]

Yes they are. Can you give some thoughts, Rick?

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[MKD]

Ok ready to move in. Which is better move discus from different tanks one by one or all at once?

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[alcastro]

Just do it :D

[MKD]

Some new pics using air plants for background.

Before
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/18/9ype8una.jpg


After
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/18/pyta8uda.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/18/a9u2erym.jpg



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[alcastro]

I like the wood with plants, not so much the other side i think if you keep the same theme across the tank with differt size wood would look more uniform.
AL

[MKD]

I know. I searched and saw so many options to grow these plants. I was trying to see how it looks. So far it turns out good.

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[MKD]

I moved 1 group over and here they are. Blue will come later.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/18/de4evape.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/18/vy6ere3e.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/18/e5y4aja7.jpg

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[rdiscus]

Nice group ... leopard look large ...

[MKD]

Yeah, I love spotted and he's 1 of my favorites.

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[ktltn04]

wow, spots . are those spotted face lss ? Very nice.

[musicmarn1]

Wow. Q lot of work into this!! I'm so jealous about your plumbing skills

[MKD]

wow, spots . are those spotted face lss ? Very nice.
those are penang. thank you Kevin


Wow. Q lot of work into this!! I'm so jealous about your plumbing skills
I try to keep it simple and easy to maintain it.

[MKD]

they settle in very well so far so good. Here are couple more pics

Lights: 2x 48" Ecoxotic 8000K and 2x 36" Current USA LED

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-UNvZ7MSIIzc/U6l6U56Il-I/AAAAAAAAHNA/vI97CW_eA9A/w958-h639-no/DSC02545

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-gxcoUJNKKKY/U6l6dtMGQRI/AAAAAAAAHNQ/-v5n_ksCMiU/w958-h639-no/DSC02548

tried different camera option
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-SDQ53jz9DCM/U6l6xZZycsI/AAAAAAAAHN4/e5rguPCoQPQ/w958-h639-no/DSC02553


https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-kxACLYOHTko/U6l7_d7UcjI/AAAAAAAAHQE/fEuREsckENk/w958-h639-no/DSC02570







night light

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-yej84oxdzOY/U6gtf-tbU-I/AAAAAAAAHMg/_ndvHjg4b3A/w958-h639-no/DSC02525.JPG

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-pHMZwUARbqI/U6gtf7K7F8I/AAAAAAAAHMg/jbZzOs-6xWk/w958-h639-no/DSC02517.JPG


https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5lbJjCcgdUE/U6gtf-DI1_I/AAAAAAAAHMg/OBG44TZ3VcY/w958-h639-no/DSC02536.JPG







group pics

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Eii5F5J55ZE/U6l7JFZvE2I/AAAAAAAAHOs/JCA-4SvGhI0/w958-h639-no/DSC02559

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-6HpFDymS67c/U6l7nTxaRjI/AAAAAAAAHPc/xiAYiifH6nE/w958-h639-no/DSC02565

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-CRBtnn97jdI/U6l717n4iSI/AAAAAAAAHP0/eIKa3njn5FQ/w958-h639-no/DSC02568

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-3gamy64GoRg/U6l8Q3U-XgI/AAAAAAAAHQk/rTJAQOqFMjk/w958-h639-no/DSC02574


https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-jIwY2ZY4q0k/U6l8ado8E3I/AAAAAAAAHQ0/72FeuiB_j2E/w958-h639-no/DSC02576


https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-LNlNaRYhsbU/U6l8pYCwiTI/AAAAAAAAHRM/4xRaJrgoZGA/w958-h639-no/DSC02580


https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5K6u2PbNPRs/U6l-GBrGFrI/AAAAAAAAHUE/1emaF7-mRTs/w958-h639-no/DSC02614

[rickztahone]

I am a sucker for discus with full pattern on the operculum, your Penang (I assume they are Penang's) have incredible pattern on the operculum! Great job. Are these from Kenny?

[MKD]

They're from our great Kenny. They were 3.5-4" and now 5.75 - 6". Spotted is my most favorite and really like it all over body.

[MKD]

here is short phone video


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e69vhULislE

[discusplantedtanklover]

Wow very nice.

[Second Hand Pat]

I just caught up with this thread and the tank and fish look awesome. Well done Tony. :D
Pat

[MKD]

thank you Pat, I still have some more to move in but slowly giving time for BB build up.

[ktltn04]

Update please

[MKD]

Sorry for not updating it. Just came back from Havasu Lake in Arizona . I'll take video asap.


http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/08/15/vyhurape.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/08/15/y9ahyjuq.jpg
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[MKD]

check it out - video before WC and lights are off
30 discus
2 loaches
5 altum angels
6 ABN
1 Snowball pleco
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OhdpWo6w6aA&index=3&list=UUYFFi0rVJDfJJW8m-9VUp0A

[alcastro]

Wow Tony they look great, great shape color great quality, and nice you took a vacation.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[MKD]

thank you Al.

Kids stayed in water all day long, it was 115% F. Great to be back California.

[ktltn04]

you need more discus :)

[MKD]

Sure do but want something like yours, Kevin.

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[ktltn04]

Sure do but want something like yours, Kevin.

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

and I want a tank like yours. Where did you buy those altum angel ? are those tank breed ?

[MKD]

they're wild caught and i got them from a friend. They're getting big and feeding same thing i feed discus, no special food. I really their look.

[MKD]

Here are some new pics after water change

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-rY-4VUNcLjU/VA0B8mMhyMI/AAAAAAAAHtk/pXzdVwnbjRo/w996-h664-no/DSC02941

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-68OaLeHi_Ac/VA0CFcx-xwI/AAAAAAAAHuE/NpMyMawgISg/w996-h664-no/DSC02944

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-wg5fUi4zwWI/VA0CJWRlRhI/AAAAAAAAHuU/ocQsCqqSyR4/w996-h664-no/DSC02946

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-MXdPILdBA5o/VA0CPgGnIoI/AAAAAAAAHus/WMp8AX8xlgI/w996-h664-no/DSC02949

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-In4K8fmU9N0/VA0CRuj0ntI/AAAAAAAAHu0/uE9Zi4usBzs/w996-h664-no/DSC02950

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PaSrBK9XY8E/VA0CaXHHHiI/AAAAAAAAHvU/l4avmfCdNfs/w996-h664-no/DSC02954

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-rIX1pYX4UvA/VA0Cg-b3FnI/AAAAAAAAHvs/G3LrplmABso/w996-h664-no/DSC02956

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-weYW31rZUT4/VA0CnTm0AUI/AAAAAAAAHwE/GGMfx1YqMKA/w996-h664-no/DSC02960

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-IbYfmprhPjg/VA0DACUqdII/AAAAAAAAHw0/t96Z8O_9fNw/w996-h664-no/DSC02966

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-isfZM_8_-Eo/VA0DEzTxxDI/AAAAAAAAHxE/YtPnAgGUiko/w996-h664-no/DSC02968

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1ZDFGtQj3FM/VA0DNWHPMZI/AAAAAAAAHxk/loj0W8ctbxA/w996-h664-no/DSC02973

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-u3ocX48U1sE/VA0DZ-cOjII/AAAAAAAAHyU/1I97hCzathY/w996-h664-no/DSC02978

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-C0Ke2oYxz-U/VA0DeGVTifI/AAAAAAAAHyk/vUBm4N2e7DQ/w996-h664-no/DSC02980

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-MAxLPq-QEg8/VA0D3HU6qFI/AAAAAAAAH0E/xKYl6OjEdec/w996-h664-no/DSC02992

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Hjmsdi4Op3M/VA0D974jcQI/AAAAAAAAH0c/LM3nWF4Fs88/w996-h664-no/DSC02995


https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fMQgYUJt8I0/VA0Fd5ENCoI/AAAAAAAAH6A/LBk7N5MBN-o/w996-h664-no/DSC03038

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wJrmTqYQtHY/VA0Ff8iJd2I/AAAAAAAAH6I/1xlcClyri9k/w996-h664-no/DSC03040


https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UP9Hhr2rGsU/VA0GWSIbEpI/AAAAAAAAH9Y/EAe23gcvrqk/w996-h664-no/DSC03067

[dkeef]

Second to last pic face spotted one is awesome bro.

I'm gonna set up 220 moba tank into discus tank. Moving my mobas into hap tank. Going all albino and yellow on that one like Drock.

[MKD]

Yeah he's one of my favorite. That will be awesome 220 yellow white tank. Can't wait it running, is it going to be planted too?

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[Ryan]

That's quite a selection of fish -- love the blue scorpions! :thumbsup:

I also enjoy the altums you've got in there. ;)

[MKD]

thank you Ryan, it's one of my favorite tooo. can't wait to see the Scarless Snakeskin turn out. I put them in there too early at 4.75" due number of reasons. I have to keep my eyes on them.

[rickztahone]

Looking great Tony. That blue light strip we see in the back, is it positioned along the back floor outside, or are we seeing a reflection somehow?

[MKD]

Hurts your eyes Rick. This is in the back. give me some thoughts pros vs cons.



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[dkeef]

0.5" pfs with driftwood and just anubias. Simple.
Already has blue background.
I tried all other fish but discus rules for me. Even more than mobas.
I thought i loved africans but after coming back, they are boring.



Yeah he's one of my favorite. That will be awesome 220 yellow white tank. Can't wait it running, is it going to be planted too?

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

[MKD]

it will be a great looking tank. same here, discus all the way for me now . that will be awesome if you turn all current tanks into discus :) j/k. that would be too much for your busy schedule.

[dkeef]

if discus can handle WC every 1-2 weeks then i would LOL

[MKD]

If that's a case, you will be bored just like others, not special any more.

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

[rickztahone]

Hurts your eyes Rick. This is in the back. give me some thoughts pros vs cons.



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

what is the intended purpose of the lights? Is it your main light, or an accent one? You are right though, it does kind of draw the eye AWAY from the discus, which is a shame. Being that your tank is so large, I can't (for the moment) think of a way of hiding the light somehow. Additionally, have you tried another kelvin temperament instead of the blue? The reason I ask is because it seems as if this hue may not be displaying your discus at their full colorful potential. IMO of course.

[MKD]

here are most recent pics. Finally, i fill this tank up and continue WC.



https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-J3kO72vxWCM/VE8VI7RqPkI/AAAAAAAAIEM/m8FAvQY5tRo/w958-h539-no/20141027_205618.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-9OEUt7yWVeQ/VE8VPW71R7I/AAAAAAAAIEk/gNuOFVy_kpc/w958-h539-no/20141027_205609.jpg

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-jz87Gsy_ZbQ/VE8VSJacagI/AAAAAAAAIFI/dE16ngI5_j4/w958-h539-no/20141027_205605.jpg

[musicmarn1]

Love it!! very clean and pleasing :D arrg i must get my big one up and running i put it off again your inspiring me here

[dkeef]

hey when did u get all those platinums?

[MKD]

Love it!! very clean and pleasing :D arrg i must get my big one up and running i put it off again your inspiring me here
Go for it, no need to think twice :). I'm looking forward to your progress report and pics.


hey when did u get all those platinums?

There is one from 2 years ago and some I got in June/July.

[alcastro]

Congrats bud, some day i might have such a nice selection

[MKD]

Here is new video of feeding of new seafood mix in the evening right after lights on


http://youtu.be/QO7y6oF_jvQ

[Miss_Fish]

They sure are gorgeous fish! Are any of them Red Turks with Black Halo's from Kenny's Discus?

[MKD]

Those are Alex Piwow Turqs. I really like his jumbo size but does not seem able to bring in US. These take long time but may not get to jumbo, so disappointed.

[Miss_Fish]

They are very beautiful. :D

[Second Hand Pat]

Lots of nice fish Tony. How old are those piwows?

Maybe time to start my build thread. :D

[MKD]

Thanks Pat, took me awhile to have them.
My guess these Piwows are less than 2 yrs old and I may same luck as John_N, haven't seen eggs from all of them :(


I agree you should start new build thread. I admit you're doing awesome job on all tanks and can't wait to see new tank progress.

[rickztahone]

Great as always Tony, TFS

[blueluv]

Tony
You have quite an impressive collection. I especially love the piwowarski turqs

[kris2341]

Those are Alex Piwow Turqs. I really like his jumbo size but does not seem able to bring in US. These take long time but may not get to jumbo, so disappointed.

If you decide that you don't like your Piwow Turqs, I might be able to take them off your hands in the not so distant future. I have 2 that need some new peers. LOL!

Your assortment of fish in that tank are absolutely stunning!

[Rudustin]

Beautiful discus. Rufus

[MKD]

Thank you Rick, Chris, Kris and Rufus

Kris, theyare my most favorite. Absolutely let you know if i decide to let them go.

[kris2341]

Thank you Rick, Chris, Kris and Rufus

Kris, theyare my most favorite. Absolutely let you know if i decide to let them go.

Looking at how you are feeding and taking care of your fish, they certainly will reach their maximum potential in time. I truly hope with that, they will reach the 7-8 inches that you seek. But if they fall short, they are still beautiful fish and I'll be glad to take them off your hands for good pay. Can put the money towards a new set to grow!

Good Luck!

[Argentum]

Hello Tony,

I have a question regarding the overflow design, I read that the main drain pipe should be submerged under water by at least an inch to be completely silent. You modified that and made it drain over drip tray, so how much noise does it make with your modification?

And after you experienced it, is there anything you would change in the original design to make it better?

I am in the process of planing for a 300 G build and your builds is the most I am inspired with.

[MKD]

I love it and i do have a conpartment that both drain pipes submerged in before drip tray. It's very quite. Here is my modification. i connect both drain pipes to an 90degree elbow and connect both elbows to a piece of spray bar (PVC drill whole bunch of holes). I am doing this because i feed them bh mix and stuffs going into sump and spread out water pressure from drain pipe connect to gate valves. Let me know if you have any questions.

Hope it helps and please post your new built when you're ready.

tony

[Argentum]

I love it and i do have a conpartment that both drain pipes submerged in before drip tray. It's very quite. Here is my modification. i connect both drain pipes to an 90degree elbow and connect both elbows to a piece of spray bar (PVC drill whole bunch of holes). I am doing this because i feed them bh mix and stuffs going into sump and spread out water pressure from drain pipe connect to gate valves. Let me know if you have any questions.

Hope it helps and please post your new built when you're ready.

tony

I spent all this day working on the design to calculate the size of the cuttings. I will start a post by tomorrow or after for sure.

Can you upload a picture of this "compartment" your talking about, in the pictures of your sump I can see only the drip trays as the first stage!

You said you want to make spray bar, But I didn't get the point of why you want to do this what happens if the water returns with a fast flow with BH? and won't that cancel the Herbie design?

[Argentum]

And yes, one more thing, what is the length of the braces? besides the euro bracing are there any center bracing?

[MKD]

I spent all this day working on the design to calculate the size of the cuttings. I will start a post by tomorrow or after for sure.

Can you upload a picture of this "compartment" your talking about, in the pictures of your sump I can see only the drip trays as the first stage!

You said you want to make spray bar, But I didn't get the point of why you want to do this what happens if the water returns with a fast flow with BH? and won't that cancel the Herbie design?

Tell me about, that 's a fun part and things bouncing around in the head :) . Here are some pics, each tray has filter pad. Currently I am using spray bar, trying to spread out waste over tray 12x 20. As you know Herbie style has 1 of pipes which handles at least 70% of water. This creates high water current rushing thru sponge and it pushes waste thru sponge or damage just that spot really quick. It will help filter pad last longer.


2 drain pipes go thru the lid with 2 holes and there is a compartment underneath.
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PexhDvw90GM/U3sGZRCQwgI/AAAAAAAAG2o/pv9-2Y-2M6o/w1118-h633-no/IMAG1122.jpg



this is a compartment right under the lid and water level will up about 1-1/2".

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JwYu6et586s/VHkQ0djjJvI/AAAAAAAAISk/jumnOcg2WT8/w1118-h629-no/20141128_161207.jpg
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-SsWkEUsZR-c/VHkQ1Ke5gLI/AAAAAAAAISw/j-9aPJivty0/w374-h664-no/20141128_161340.jpg




And yes, one more thing, what is the length of the braces? besides the euro bracing are there any center bracing?
Mine is not Euro bracing, there are 2 openings 18x28" each. I am trying to keep heat in and water evaporation; Since, i do wc often and rather move 2 pieces lids then 1 huge lid. Big lid more likely will be bend and heavy.

[Argentum]

Tell me about, that 's a fun part and things bouncing around in the head :) . Here are some pics, each tray has filter pad.

I am really mentally exhausted bouncing through ideas and editing the design. I want to come up with a design that will look nice, not noisy, requires minimal maintenance, can be used initially as a grow out then get turned to a display, auto water changing, huge and after all of this is still not very expensive.


https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-SsWkEUsZR-c/VHkQ1Ke5gLI/AAAAAAAAISw/j-9aPJivty0/w374-h664-no/20141128_161340.jpg[/IMG]


Your sump design is very creative, I really like it. I think I am going to copy your design, I might leave the first chamber with no sponge and increase it's depth, this way it can handle the flow better and diffuse the flow coming from the return. This will retain the Herbie design and solve the issue you mentioned. I will follow that with a layer of sponge and might end that with a small 5- 50 micron sock filter

What do you think?

[MKD]

IME, Don't think it's good idea for grow out. Grow out needs to fed BH and will clog 5-50 micro socks really quick (it could be a day depends on how much you feed). It also take so much the vertical/height space in the stand, that's why i chose tray. With my current set up, i still rinse to tray every day and min 3x wc per week.

How is your stand?

If you'll go with socks, I would like to suggest a tray right under sock so it can catch anything pass thru sock or in case sock get clog. And if you wont like it you can turn the tray space to Han's set up (check out his interview). Everyone has different schedule and taste, so try to fit your.

[Argentum]

IME, Don't think it's good idea for grow out. Grow out needs to fed BH and will clog 5-50 micro socks really quick (it could be a day depends on how much you feed). It also take so much the vertical/height space in the stand, that's why i chose tray. With my current set up, i still rinse to tray every day and min 3x wc per week.

How is your stand?

If you'll go with socks, I would like to suggest a tray right under sock so it can catch anything pass thru sock or in case sock get clog. And if you wont like it you can turn the tray space to Han's set up (check out his interview). Everyone has different schedule and taste, so try to fit your.

The stand is exactly like yours (The framework at least) with cupboards on both sides, the one on the right will be higher than the aquarium. The one on the left will be flush with the level of the aquarium. All plumbing will be from the inside (water draining from the right into the sump and returning from the left.

The background will be frosted with some sort of light effect.

I know the socks can clog fast so I am not going to use it until the grow out phase is over, but I want it's place to be included in the design. I am thinking that the mechanical filtration should go from higher pore size to lower, otherwise the first stage will catch everything and clog fast.

Regarding the vertical position below the socks, I plan to expand it only a bit horizontally and use this space as a small Refugium. I am thinking of the socks as a polishing stage more than as a filtration stage and if I include it, if it gets clogged the water will overflow into the next stage but will have already goth filtered through the sponges.

Another alternative I just thought of right now is using a one stage HMA filter with a 5 micron cartridge connected to a power head in the area below the trays and connect it's output to the media stage (which will be K1 media).

[Argentum]

One more thing about the stand, initially I designed it with 6 cross bars at the top and 3 at the bottom, but when I saw yours I removed those. I will cover the top of the stand with 1/2" Plywood sheet the rest will be 3/4" plywood sheets

[MKD]

You'll be fine if you won't use it as grow out. Just wc and monitor the filter to see how fast it build up and rinse it. You don't need HMA or k1. Just put in couple sponges, you'll have crystal clear water. Easy to maintain and not worry things fail.

Ps regard to stand: because my tank is 30" wide, i still have 3 cross bars on top every 2 feet to avoid it bow the bottom and hold the top frame better.

[Argentum]

Tony!

I am now almost complete with the build, however I am stuck at a certain point!

The center 2 x 4 leg which is screwed to the guide behind it which eventually have a cross bar 2 x 4 above it.

I already have the leg screwed to the guides which are screwed from below to the lower frame. but I have no idea now how am I going to screw any of them to the top frame!

I can place the cross bars over them and screw these to the top frame , but the only thing holding the leg to the top frame will be the weight of the top frame pushing against it and no screws or anything, i am not sure if that's what you have done?

[Argentum]

Here are pictures to make it more clear .... what exactly did I do wrong?

http://i1159.photobucket.com/albums/p634/argentumblade/DSC02608_zps3bfcce8e.jpg (http://s1159.photobucket.com/user/argentumblade/media/DSC02608_zps3bfcce8e.jpg.html)
http://i1159.photobucket.com/albums/p634/argentumblade/DSC02609_zps1373323a.jpg (http://s1159.photobucket.com/user/argentumblade/media/DSC02609_zps1373323a.jpg.html)

[MKD]

You can just screw it from front and back of top frame. Plus you will screw it the front and top plywood too.

Hope this helps
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-fli6R6iXAHg/U0qqcQyTyvI/AAAAAAAAGqI/_Xy2K40le1c/w958-h719-no/20140412_171557.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-u6rBf5M2nn4/U13-rt7MxVI/AAAAAAAAGuE/3MyXl90dxOs/w958-h542-no/IMAG1057.jpg

[MKD]

I can place the cross bars over them and screw these to the top frame , but the only thing holding the leg to the top frame will be the weight of the top frame pushing against it and no screws or anything, i am not sure if that's what you have done?

you will screw it to front and back plywoods.

[Argentum]

I think you got me wrong, or I am still no getting it :
I explained it over the picture below
http://i1159.photobucket.com/albums/p634/argentumblade/DSC02608_zps23a56fb7.jpg (http://s1159.photobucket.com/user/argentumblade/media/DSC02608_zps23a56fb7.jpg.html)

[MKD]

I crewed it to front and back plywood. other option is metal bracket. You'll be fine my way cause when tank sits on it most weight at corners.

[Argentum]

Thanks Tony, this means I am done with the frame. I am done for today as well maybe tommorow I will start with the plywood.

However something different I realised is you have spacing between the two center bracing, are they 2 x 4 ? what about what they are sitting on is it 2 x 8 or two 2 x 4's ?

[MKD]

they're sitting on 2x (2x4"). The reason i did that because I want more support for 2 front doors (at the end, i changed to 1 fold door). Also the top plywood was short couple inches so I cut it in half so i could flat both ends :)

[Argentum]

What I did is only one 2 x 4 in the center ... do you think the structure will hold this way?

http://i1159.photobucket.com/albums/p634/argentumblade/DSC02610_zps19398c68.jpg (http://s1159.photobucket.com/user/argentumblade/media/DSC02610_zps19398c68.jpg.html)

[MKD]

Oh yeah, definitely will hold it. Don't forget 2 hold cross bar and plywood. Way over kill.
Man you did a great job. Very nice.

[Argentum]

Thank you for your support, I appreciate that :)

[MKD]

No worry , anytime. It's fun.

[MKD]

I finally managed to make diy 3D background out of 1 1/2" styrofoam and placed it in the back of tank. Also put 2 awesome Barb's breeding cones upside down. 2x 24" led lights shine toward the back creating the depth.

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-OilLiOri4DA/VKgwYs3nFlI/AAAAAAAAIi4/eEs5DNLYvMY/w728-h1294-no/20141228_105738.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-WHS6LSj68yI/VKgwTuPTbGI/AAAAAAAAIiU/JeHs0KuG37M/w449-h798-no/20141228_105726.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-rHRbIENDjxI/VKgwRdFcUzI/AAAAAAAAIh8/RkR0MnwqxuA/w728-h1294-no/20141228_105657.jpg

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-rHRbIENDjxI/VKgwRdFcUzI/AAAAAAAAIh8/RkR0MnwqxuA/w449-h798-no/20141228_105657.jpg


https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-kwKHiQVfgm8/VKjOPFru9FI/AAAAAAAAIm4/xyf5IBsZxoc/w720-h405-no/20150103_175046.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-io6ZVnN5ZK8/VKjOT1X5UKI/AAAAAAAAInc/U71DJ8IeUl8/w720-h405-no/20150103_173027.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-E9HdDGkXcnI/VKjOl6l1tEI/AAAAAAAAIpg/xJnl4dVyCGE/w720-h405-no/20150103_172826.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-7LBhEAfURQw/VKjOxdrNtLI/AAAAAAAAIrM/niZl5avUEYc/w728-h410-no/20150103_172434.jpg

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jhu73OPjxo4/VKjPLnWzEZI/AAAAAAAAIvg/vLj61BAzH9k/w728-h410-no/20150103_164215.jpg

[MKD]

Sat in front of the tank and decided to take a short video. Here is the video i took last night after dinner.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wiLFuCWF_lw

[alcastro]

Looks great, I like the way the lights reflect, great job Tony

[FMA4ME]

Wow! Beautiful!! I really dig the 3D background, thank you, I haven't been able to figure out my background until seeing this :)

[timvriens]

nice big tank, i love the fish ;)

[MKD]

Here is my update after over a year.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wwb1efQmYjE

Enjoy

Tony

[Tony13]

I was checking out this thread on my phone so I might have missed it, I have to ask how much did this monster setup set you back, you can tell me to mind my own business if its too personal of a question.

[Kal-El]

How did you keep the cones position upside down like that?

[MKD]

I was checking out this thread on my phone so I might have missed it, I have to ask how much did this monster setup set you back, you can tell me to mind my own business if its too personal of a question.
I don't know exactly amount but about +/- 3K.



How did you keep the cones position upside down like that?
I requested Barb make 2 holes on the lip of the cones when I ordered from her. Run a string thru and hang it up to canopy.

[Kal-El]

Nice... like the setup.

[rickztahone]

I don't know exactly amount but about +/- 3K.



I requested Barb make 2 holes on the lip of the cones when I ordered from her. Run a string thru and hang it up to canopy.

Do you think the alternative, hanging them from the narrow end of the cone would make for a better cone since you benefit from having the lip? I'm presume you did this in order to reduce floor debris accumulation?

[MKD]

It's so hard to find used big tank that fit your needs. I m very please with it. Barebottom, external background and external overflow make it so easy to maintain. It takes me an hour to clean and fill up 80% WC.

[MKD]

Do you think the alternative, hanging them from the narrow end of the cone would make for a better cone since you benefit from having the lip? I'm presume you did this in order to reduce floor debris accumulation?

it's hard to tie to narrow end. it's easier to tie from big end and not afraid string get loose. My reasons are trying to make it look like a cage but couldnt get swirled color cones, yes dont want debris trap inside, with upside down I can hide air stones (if you put sponge inside with airstone, it can be a good sponge filter).

[Tony13]

3k is nothing for as much tank as you have looks great,enjoy.

[MKD]

I know, something we enjoy everyday. Thats not including stand and lights ;)

[Tony13]

That's what I thought, how about all the other stuff pumps heaters etc.

[dadecountyalan]

Now thats and impressive set up!!! Wow you could swim with your fish if you want. I think sand would take it to the next level but i can understand why you went bare bottom. I love the stand and that sump looks awesome!

Keep it up!!

[MKD]

I used to have 180G planted tank and it takes very long time to clean that big tank. I give up plants for discus, easy to maintain and WC. Plus, I need time to maintain other tanks.

[Jack L]

here are most recent pics. Finally, i fill this tank up and continue WC.



https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-J3kO72vxWCM/VE8VI7RqPkI/AAAAAAAAIEM/m8FAvQY5tRo/w958-h539-no/20141027_205618.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-9OEUt7yWVeQ/VE8VPW71R7I/AAAAAAAAIEk/gNuOFVy_kpc/w958-h539-no/20141027_205609.jpg

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-jz87Gsy_ZbQ/VE8VSJacagI/AAAAAAAAIFI/dE16ngI5_j4/w958-h539-no/20141027_205605.jpg

i have looked through your build thread a couple times, it is very impressive

[MKD]

It took me awhile to design and decide overflow on the side, tank size, drilled holes and sump. I m very please the outcome. I enjoy it and still able to perform quick water change.

Thank you Jack

Tony

[ericNH]

What you've achieved in discus-keeping is so fantastic... This thread is the kind that inspires me to make my own small upgrades, and many other people, too - Thank you for sharing!

Btw, I liked the green background - "background #1" :)

[MKD]

More tanks , more discus.

thank you Eric

[Jack L]

what are the things that look like bricks in the sump?

lot of nice Ds in there!

[MKD]

Those are marinepure block and have replaced bigger blocks with swisstropical foam.

[RobC]

Tony still active? My Uncle was the one that bought your tank!

[ScottW]

Tony still active? My Uncle was the one that bought your tank!

The 300 gallon?

[RobC]

The 300 gallon?

Yep, that one.

[ScottW]

Oh wow, he got a beautiful tank.