Here's my tank build I have been working on for about year now.It might take me a little while to get all the pic posted I'am having to copy them off another site.
Tank size 96"L X 48"W X 35"H the water will run at about 32-1/2" deep.
The inside is coated with Mas 2 part epoxy to about 3/16" thick the plywood is ock the outside frame is pine.The front panel top has 2"x 2" 1/4" thick metal angle that run across were the glass panel will be.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600plywoodtank3.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600plywoodtank4.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK001.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK005.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK011.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK012.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK016.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK018.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK024.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK036.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK052.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK054.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK057.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK058.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK059.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK064.jpg

Got the front of the overflow poured and took the tape off the front panel here a pic with
the tape on and one when I removed the tape.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK058.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK065.jpg

Here some pics of the overflow I"ll let this sit for a couple days then turn it on it's top then
do the in side of the top.That will be the last of the flat panels then it on to the 45 deg.
corner's then all the epoxying will be done on the the inside.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK069.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK073.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK074.jpg

Got the inside of the top poured .While the tank is upsidedown I will seal the outside
bottom & the bottom of the overflow.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK079.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK081.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK085.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK086.jpg
Sealed the outside bottom of the tank & overflow .Now I can start pouring all the corners
then it will be ready to stain & seal the outside then I can get the front glass panel.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK088.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK095.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK093.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK090.jpg[

Got some more done on the tank epoxyed the outside back & back of the overflow put one coat on with a roller will put one more on .Then I can flip it right side up and do the sides,top and frt. then i can pour the 45"s.



http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK101.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK103.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK104.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK106.jpg

Turned the tank back over and got the 1st. coat on the rest of the outside.I'll put a 2nd coat on then I will sand and put on one more.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK107.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK112.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK111.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK109.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK110.jpg

Nice!

Got the top of the overflow's poured then I sanded all the edges while I was waiting
for the 1st tool on the cnc mill to finish & to start the last tool.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK114.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK117.jpg

Here some pic of the form that were have on the mill.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK121.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK123.jpg

Made my 45 deg. jigs now I can get started pouring the rest of the inside of the tank only 11 more pours.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK125.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK126.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK128.jpg

Got the tank setup on the 45's and poured the first set of corners. Just 10 more.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK131.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK136.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK140.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK141.jpg

I poured the other bottom corner I like to give a day between the next pour.Then we turned the tank and poured one of the front panel & overflow corners 8 more pours to go.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK144.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK146.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK148.jpg

Checked the epoxy that I poured last it was hard so I went ahead and turned the tank and poured the other end. It looks like I can pour everyday from now on.7 more

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK153.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK155.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK156.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK160.jpg

Turned the tank again poured the front bottom of the glass panel & front bottom of the overflow.
Need to pour one more coat then it can be turned again. 6more

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK164.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK175.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK172.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK179.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK171.jpg

Got the back bottom of the tank & overflow done.I'll get it turned
and do the top of the front panel then I can measure for the glass. 5 more.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK182.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK194.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK183.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK187.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK193.jpg

Here is a picture of the stack of pumps for the tank
2) reeflo black fin 6000 for the closed loops,
1) black fin 3600 for the return
1) dart gold orca needle-wheel for the protein skimmer
1) pw-40px for the calcium reactor
4) 8" arcylic tubes for my calcium reactor & media chambers.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK197Acopy.jpg

Got the front top of the glass panel poured.4more
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK198.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK208.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK200.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK201.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK204.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK207.jpg

Turned the tank again and poured one of the top sides .It's so hot in the shop it want take long before I can pour the 2nd. coat 3more
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK212.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK213.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK215.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK216.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK220.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK221.jpg

Got started on the putting together the egg create for the foam and rock walls.I got the back and half of both sides done I will make the other two tomorrow.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK278.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK281.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK282.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK285.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK285.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK287.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK288.jpg

I got all the egg create for the rock walls done and needed to make something to mount the create at the top of the tank so I drew some mounts up in cad and cut them on the cnc mill and while I was on the mill I cut the parts needed for the bubble counter and got it glued together. I'am
going to try to get the rest of the part for the calcium reactor & media reactors cut this weekend.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK289.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK291.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK292.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK290.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK293.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/BUBBLE001.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/BUBBLE002.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/BUBBLE003.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/BUBBLE005.jpg

I finished cutting all the parts for the calcuim & media reactors only thing I need to do now is cut the hole in the calcium reactor tubes for the 3/4 pipe fitting for the pump and for the 1/4 fitting that comes from the 1st chamber to the bottom of the 2nd chamber.Then I can glue .I put the calcuim reactor together to make sure all the part fit here some pic.
The tubes are 8"dia. x 24" tall.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/CR-8REATER.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/CR-8REATER1.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/CAL001.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/CAL003.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/CAL004.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/CAL006.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/CAL002.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/CAL007.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/CAL008.jpg

Put the media chambers together .I hope to get the hole cut in the tubes
for the calcium reactor so I can put it together then I can get started back on the foam & rock walls.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/MEDIAREACTOR2.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/MEDIAREACTOR7.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/MEDIA003.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/MEDIA005.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/MEDIA007.jpg

I glued the calcuim reactor tubes to the base
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/CAL009.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/CAL010.jpg

Got to work on the calcuim reactor cut all the pvc parts and maybe I can get them glued tomorrow.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/CAL011.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/CAL013.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/CAL014.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/CAL015.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/CAL016.jpg

Sweet!!!!!

Got all the pvc glued on the calcium reactor & media chambers and got started back on the foam & rock walls.

I made a rack to cover the close loop outlets in the center of the tank.I’m going to try to hide all the outlets.
I also got some of the close loop pluming glued a mounted to the egg reate. The next thing I need to do is figure out where i want the bulkheads for close loop inlets and outlets that comes threw the back wall and cut holes and install them then I can cut the egg create for the walls and start drilling & hanging some rock.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK294.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK296.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK297.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK298.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMANDROCK001.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMANDROCK002.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMANDROCK007.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMANDROCK009.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMANDROCK010.jpg

Got the epoxy & sand on the foam.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK017.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK018.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK019.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK021.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK025.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK026.jpg

Got the left side front wall foamed .I will get the sand put on next.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK029.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK029.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK034.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK035.jpg

Got the left side wall cut to fit in the tank and put some epoxy & sand on it.
I'll get started on the right side and get it to the same point as this left side.
Then I'll have to drill the hole for the bulkheads in the back wall and then get the bulkhead & fittings put in then i can cut the egg create to miss them then cut some more egg create to go around the fittings to hide them so you don't see them from the front of the tank.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK039.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK041.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK043.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK045.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK047.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK048.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK049.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK050.jpg

Got the lose sand cleaned off the left side and put back in the tank.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK052.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK053.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK055.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK056.jpg

Got the right side front panel done and cut the holes for the 1-1/2" & 2" bulkhead for the close loop and started to make the covers that fit over the 1-1/2" fittings that come threw the back wall.I didn't get threw with the covers so no pic of them I will get one tomorrow.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK059.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK062.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK063.jpghttp://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK064.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK066.jpghttp://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK067.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK069.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK071.jpg

Finished the covers for the close loop returns and got them put in I still need to make the covers for the intakes .

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK072.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK073.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK074.jpg

[QUOTE=davisju1;20817]Here some pics of the inlets covers and jig. I'll try to get some rock zip tied
nexted .
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK075.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK076.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK077.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK078.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK079.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK080.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK081.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK082.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK083.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK084.jpg


Worked on the right side back wall and got the rock zip tied to the egg create and then got some foam put on next I'll get the epoxy and
sand on going the have to get some sand dried out that I wash out that came out of the 180 I have about 2 gal. already dry so I can get started.I also need to epoxy all the bulkhead hole.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK085.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK086.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK089.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK091.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK092.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK093.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK094.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK095.jpg

Here some pic of my old 180 gal aga tank before I had to brake it down I'am
going to use it for a refugium and for the sump i will use a 300 gal rubbermaid stock tank.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/1-17-05042.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/1-17-05044.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/1-04-05002.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/12-27-04013.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/12-15-06005.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/12-15-06003.jpg

Got one side done with epoxy & sand I ran out of the dry sand so I used some that was almost dry it seamed to work a little better . I'll vac the
loose sand off and turn the other side down flat and get that side done.
After I get that side done I'll turn it back down to the first side a use some
finer sand to cover the egg create for the overflows.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK096.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK097.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK098.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK099.jpg

Went and checked on the epoxy & sand that I just put on it was dry so I went ahead and put some sand on were the overflows will be to cover up the egg create I think I'am going to put one more coat on after this dries the finer sand just don't cover as well.

before the finer sand
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK096.jpg

after the sand
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK103.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK102.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK101.jpg

Got the right side back wall turned and the rest of the sand put on.
I'll take the shop vac and vacuum off all the lose sand and get the
jig ready to do the left side. This is the first night this week that I have had
time to work on the tank
So here some pics.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK105.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK106.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK108.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK109.jpg
Here a close up of the egg create that cover's the overflow inlets.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK112.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK113.jpg

I got the sand vacuum off of the other part of the rightside foam wall and cleaned off the foam that went threw to the back side of the egg
create so the foam wall will fit back flush with back and side walls of the tank.By the time I got to this point it was about 10:00 I was ready to go home but had to see what the wall was going to look like in the tank so I stayed and got it put in.
Here some pics.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK115.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK116.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK117.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK118.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK121.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK122.jpg

I got the jig made for the left side back and laid out the rock
and today I got the all rock drill and zip tied to the egg create after that I put the foam
on.Tomorrow after work I"ll get the sand put on.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK123.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK124.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK125.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK126.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK127.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK128.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK130.jpg

Epoxied the sand on the left side back wall today.Tomorrow I will vacuum off all the
lose sand off and turn and do the same thing to the unfinished side then I can coat
the overflow covers with the finer sand like I did right side back wall.Then I'll get it installed
in the tank and start fixing where you can't see where all the panels come together .
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK133.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK134.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK135.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK136.jpg

Got the sand on the rest of the left back wall I'll vacuum off the sand tomorrow and get the overflow egg create covered with finer sand.Then I can get it put back in the tank.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK137.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK138.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK139.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK140.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK141.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK142.jpg

Now for a little update
I got the sand vacuum off and the wall turned back down then I put the sand on the egg create
that covers the overflows.Tomorrow I'll get the wall installed back in the tank and start on the seams between the panels.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK145.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK146.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK147.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK148.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK149.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK150.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK151.jpg

Got the left side back wall put back in the tank today.I'll start fixing the seams tomorrow.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK152.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK153.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK154.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK155.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK156.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK157.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK159.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK160.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK161.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK162.jpg

Started fixing the seams on the sides got them taped up and the foam sprayed in. I'll let it sit overnight then take them out and get the tape off and then put the epoxy and sand on.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK165.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK166.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK169.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK168.jpg

Checked the foam it was already dry so I took the wall out and got the tape off put them back in everything looked ok took them out and put the sand on.Will see how they look tomorrow.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK171.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK172.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK173.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK174.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK175.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK176.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK177.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK178.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK179.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK180.jpg

Here are some pics of the walls back in the tank.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK181.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK182.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK183.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK184.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK185.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK186.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK187.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK188.jpg

Went ahead and worked on the overflow plumbing drilled the holes and installed the 2" bulkheads then cut all the pvc pipe for the two end standpipe I would cut the center one but I run out of 2" pvc pipe.:sad:The center standpipe is going to be a backup in case one gets clogged.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK299.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK300.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK301.jpg

Here a pic of one of the round block that came out when I drilled the holes showing how thick the epoxy is inside the tack.The epoxy is as thick as this or thicker.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK306.jpg

Got to work on the tank today :AddEmoticons04230:foamed the seam in the back wall and got the air holes drilled in the standpipes.Tomorrow I'll get the sand epoxied on then I can epoxy all the bulkhead holes.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK190.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/600TANK308.jpg

Got the sand and epoxy put on the seam and the top of the back wall.I also added
some more foam to the center close loop rock to cover up the egg create on the sides
got it cover with sand too.I'll vac the sand off tomorrow and put it back in place and we'll
see how it looks.The rock work is almost done need to make some freestanding pieces
and some arch's from the rock I have left over.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK192.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK193.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK194.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK195.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK196.jpg

Got the sand vac off the back wall and center close loop rock put the back wall in place.I
haven't had alot of time to work on the tank work has started to pick up in the last week
or so. I have started drawing my light rack it will have 6 400 mh and 8-12 t5 for the Actinic
running on dimmable ballast control by a reefkeeper elite with a rkm-alc to run the t5 for
sunrise & sunset and a rkm-mlc with led pods for moonlights.
When I was looking throw Ed Reef build thread I really liked his light rack:AddEmoticons04230:
it had everything that I needed for mine so I used his design to base mine off of hope you don't mind Ed.
The frame work will be built out of 3/4" thin wall steel tubing and 1/2" angle.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK197.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK198.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK199.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/FOAMROCK200.jpg
and the light rack
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK1.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK3.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK4.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK2.jpg

WOW! Ive never seen so much craftmanship go into a tank! Keep'em coming!

That gets you up to were I'am at haven't had a lot of time to work on I hope to get started back on the tank after the first of the year.

Don Jr.

Always wanted to do one of these but don't have the time and don't have the knowledge. I'm excited to watch and learn and also can wait to see this puppy up and running! Keep us posted and thanks for the million pictures!

WOW! Ive never seen so much craftmanship go into a tank! Keep'em coming!

Thanks for taking a look it has been a lot of work but it has been fun.

Nice build! I do CNC work for a living and would love to do something like this. For some reason the management where I'm at isn't excited about it though.

Looking forward to seeing the completion.

Jr. you rock, I have watched this build for soooooo long, there is no time limit to perfection. See you soon.

Always wanted to do one of these but don't have the time and don't have the knowledge. I'm excited to watch and learn and also can wait to see this puppy up and running! Keep us posted and thanks for the million pictures!

There really not much to them the woodwork doesn't take that long the epoxy is another
story.
Your welcome on the pic.

Impressive, looking forward to the progress. Can't believe the time you must have in this so far.

Holy cow@!#@! This is DIY to the extreme!

Nice build! I do CNC work for a living and would love to do something like this. For some reason the management where I'm at isn't excited about it though.

Looking forward to seeing the completion.

Thanks, Good to see someone else in the hobby that dose the same thing for a living what kind of work do you mostly do we mostly do automotive tool & die.
That the good thing about having your own shop I do have to ask anybody.

Jr. you rock, I have watched this build for soooooo long, there is no time limit to perfection. See you soon.

Thanks Chris I need to get buy some time work has been really busy.

[quote=davisju1;433492]Thanks, Good to see someone else in the hobby that dose the same thing for a living what kind of work do you mostly do we mostly do automotive tool & die.
That the good thing about having your own shop I do have to ask anybody.

I do mostly aviation work. I can swing some small projects after hours but not anything that would need storage space and take more than a day or two.

wow, most plywood tanks come off like cheap projects for people that want a tank too big for their budget...

this one... jeez! its a work of art! keep going!

wow, most plywood tanks come off like cheap projects for people that want a tank too big for their budget...

this one... jeez! its a work of art! keep going!

Thanks you, It has been fun working on the tank. When I started thinking of doing a big tank
I looked at how much a glass or acrylic tank cost vs. a plywood I decided to put the money
I could save into better equipment.Plus I really like to build stuff.

It's always fun to watch a professional in action!!

Thanks you, It has been fun working on the tank. When I started thinking of doing a big tank
I looked at how much a glass or acrylic tank cost vs. a plywood I decided to put the money
I could save into better equipment.Plus I really like to build stuff.

its hard to believe you saved THAT much with the level of quality youve done. but youve also got a tank that you could never have had with glass or acrylic with all those closed loop holes and stuff.

its incredable.

phew you are awsome . i will be watching this one wow. you can always make me a jr skimmer lol jk . you are way past my woodcrafting ability. very nice indead. thanks for shareing.

wow. wish i could fast forward in time to see this thing complete.

This really looks cool but when it's done can I ask where and how you are going to move it. It's got to weigh a bunch.

This really looks cool but when it's done can I ask where and how you are going to move it. It's got to weigh a bunch.

I will use a forklift to put it on the trailer and then take the stand,tank & forklift to the house and I will get some caster and mount them to the sand then put the tank on the stand out side then roll the tank & stand inside were the tank will set there a 8'gauge
door.That's the plan.

I am amazed. This is truly an impressive build. I would love to come take a look at this bad boy when its finished! I am in Gainesville from time to time as I have some family there so please keep us updated!

Thank you for building this and sharing it with us. I am loving it. Kudos too for going back over the foam with sand. I love it

Looks awesome! Is it thick enough to hold all the water without bowing?

Love this build! My friend and I had thought doing one of these for his cichlids, not quite as large of course!! Glad you showed us it could be done....:up::up:

These pics do this tank no justice you should see it in person it is truely unbelievable. Don it looks great give me a call if you get a chance..
later bro.

These pics do this tank no justice you should see it in person it is truely unbelievable. Don it looks great give me a call if you get a chance..
later bro.

+1. This tank is much more impressive in person; very well built, unlike every other plywood tank I've seen. Jr is a true craftsman!

Now get off you rear end and get moving!

With what I have seen on this build there was no daught in my mind that you had the move of the tank figured out. Your planning and execution is really exceptional. Being a hands on engineer I am really impressed with the time and effort you have gone to build this tank. I have patience but don't know if I would have had anywhere near as much as you. This is an awesome project and something you can be proud of for years. Too Cool.

Don, this is one of the most impressive builds I've seen on any site.

Look forward to seeing more pics and the finished product.

:up:

lookin awesome

Any updates on this build?

Holy crap :shades: Don't know how I missed this. Very nice.

This is the most amazing build I've ever seen. Truly wonderful!

do you like the fadal?

WOW!!!! What a great tank!

Thank for everybody kind work about the tank.

Any updates on this build?
I will get started back on the tank in a week or two we have some work in the shop that we have to get out.When I get started back I'm going to build the light rack I got a quote for
the metal the other day .

do you like the fadal?
We really like them we have had (4) 4020 & (1) 6030 there not a high production machine
but for the work we do they fit the bill.

Don jr.

Had some time after work today so I made a wiring layout for the reefkeeper elite.I going to
order the steel for the light rack next week and get started back working on the tank.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/REEFKEEPERWIRELAYOUT1.jpg

Don Jr.

Had some time after work today so I made a wiring layout for the reefkeeper elite.I going to
order the steel for the light rack next week and get started back working on the tank.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/REEFKEEPERWIRELAYOUT1.jpg

Don Jr.

Wow that is incredible! Can't wait to see.

Ordered the tubing & angle for the light rack today should be here tomorrow .
I'm going to try to get the rack built this weekend.

:super:

Got all my parts cut for the light rack .Here are some pictures of them being run on the
cnc mill.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK1.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK3.jpg
These are the mounts for t5 they will hold three light each.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK001.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK004.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK008.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK007.jpg
Here are the mounts with the T5 waterproof socket end caps instilled.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK033.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK034.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK035.jpg
These are cross mount stand off that get a 1" square tube weld in to them.They run from
the front of the light rack to the back and they get the T5 mounts weld to them.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK012.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK014.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK016.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK020.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK022.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK026.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK028.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK029.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK030.jpg

Going to try to get all the frame welded together tomorrow after work.

Nice job~Looks like you finally got off your rear end and got some work done!

Are you adopting any new kids:D Nice work.

Oooohhh, I want to play!

Oooohhh, I want to play!
Wow no joke. Will sweep for fun!

Holy crap!!

I need to talk to you about some stuff!!

Wow - very nice!

you have very fun toys :)

PS. Im sure it was in here somewhere, but what is that shop set up for?

This is an awesome build!! Very well done!! Can't wait to see more.

Love it,

but this looks like V4A steel to me, how many tons will this thing weigh???

Thanks everybody for your kind words

you have very fun toys :)

PS. Im sure it was in here somewhere, but what is that shop set up for?

We are set up to do tool & die work for the automotive comp.and we also do genial
machine shop work.

Love it,

but this looks like V4A steel to me, how many tons will this thing weigh???

The rack is made out of cold rolled thin wall .065 tubing and the standoff are
1018 cold rolled steel.The rack will be a little heave I would have made it out
of 6061 alum. but we don't have a tig welder yet.

Haha,

can I get a size comparison shot for these?
They look huge, which might have misled me...

Got a late start tonight but got most of the rack tacked together were the MH will
set I will get were the T5's will be tomorrow night then I can weld the hole thing up.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK037.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK039.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK040.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK043.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK045.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK046.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK048.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK049.jpg

Awesome job!!!

Geez, I can't wait to see this thing finished. Very nice work, I'm in awe...

cold rolled steel, am I to presume this will be powdercoated or something?

cold rolled steel, am I to presume this will be powdercoated or something?

Yes I will be sending the rack out to be powder coated.

Not just boring black I hope? Lime green, neon orange?

I was thanking gun metal grey .

white would reflect light and wouldnt show salt creep(not sure if thats good or bad :p) It would also make any rust show up like a sore thumb(also not sure if good or bad, ugly but would alert you to seal the spot up)

?? sending it out??


with all the other toys you have access to, I figured you had a negative pressure paint booth just sitting around..

LOL


everyone is right.. you're an artist... this is a great build thread...

Wow! I just found this thread and I must Amazing work!!! As being a engineering student and a woodworking hobbyist I would love to see this in person. Maybe we can work that our one day. Looks great and I must say I can't wait to see this thing finished.

wow! talk about a DIY tank.....

amazing work. Cant wait to see the final product.

gun metal will be sweet!

gun metal will be sweet!

+1 to one of my favorite colors!!!:up:

Very impressive build!

Got the T5's mounts all tacked in tonight will finish welding it up tomorrow night.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK050.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK052.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK054.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK057.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK060.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK061.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK062.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK064.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK067.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK068.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK071.jpg

Looking good.... I can only imagine the man hours going into this project...

Fantastic project!

What type of Epoxy are you using? And where can you purchase it?

I've seen threads on fiberglass tanks, is this the same except with no fiber cloth in the epoxy?

Fantastic project!

What type of Epoxy are you using? And where can you purchase it?

I've seen threads on fiberglass tanks, is this the same except with no fiber cloth in the epoxy?

1)I used MAS epoxy with there slow hardener I got the epoxy from www.defender.com/

The black pigment came from www.uscomposites.com/

2)Yes its the same.

Finished the light rack up last night my friend Jason stopped by and helped me out.
Thank for you help."J"
Going to try to send the rack out to get powder coated next week.
The rack didn't turn out all that heavy I can pick it up by my self with no problem .

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK073.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK074.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK076.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK079.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK080.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK083.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/LIGHTRACK084.jpg

Looking great Jr.

Been playing around making some diy rock here are some pictures of what I have made so far.
Let me know what you think.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/DIYROCK001.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/DIYROCK002.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/DIYROCK003.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/DIYROCK004.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/DIYROCK005.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/DIYROCK006.jpg

Looks like you've had too much spare time on your hands, Jr. Let's remedy that situation! :)

How did you make that? It looks great. Pm me for your directions if you don't want to post just shoot t me a PM with your number and we can talk instead. Either way thanks in advance!

I can't wait to see this one finished!!

Wow... That is an amazing build!

WOW this gives new meaning to DIY lol... im sure you hear that a lot. Any updates on how it is coming along?

Absolutely amazing!! Great job!!

Nice build and love the rock!!!

Awesome Tank!!!!

Let's see an UPDATE!!

your DIY rock makes me wanna chuck all my live rock in the sump lol

WOW ...not much else to say:thumbs:

So far that is awsome! Question it wont leak how can you be sure it is water tight?

Wow thats like disney world quality, awesome man i didnt even know something like this was possible

great build any updates

nice:eek:

My mind is blown awesome job!

Amazing DIY...would love to see where it's at now.

I think Junior has been extremely busy with work, hopefully he will be posting more pics soon.

Holy Moly - Subscribed...

Any updates JR?

Not much to update like Glenn said been busy at work I hope to get started back on
the tank soon when I do I will get some new pictures for everybody.

looks great! a lot of time and effort into it, keep it up

So far that is awsome! Question it wont leak how can you be sure it is water tight?

EXACTLY...
Starting water tight and keeping it water tight are vastly different.
That's a TON of work to put into a wooden tank IMHO. It usually is only a matter of time before the darn thing fails. A tank like this requires that OPTIMAL water quality be maintained ALWAYS. No letting algae get out of control here.... JR must be incredibly disciplined! I have played with aquascaped sub structures and finally I just broke it down. Once or twice a year I remove everything from my tanks, siphon out the sand, clean up the acrylic, scrub and thrash about my LR in a drum of waste SW, and re-aquascape.

The first pile of rock that inadvertently topples over and glances the wall will compromise the waterproofing epoxy. Then the gradual swelling, then the seams start to go, then????

JR - How many years do you hope to get out of her? Do you have a big rubbermaid as a contingency? I would! Beautiful work!

Had some time this afternoon so I drained the water in the two 55 gal drums that I have the
diy rock in cleaned the drums & wash the rock.This is the first time I seen the rock all laid
out together .I need to get another ph test kit to check the ph my old one run out.
Here some pictures of the rock that in the 1st drum.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/DIYROCK007.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/DIYROCK008.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/DIYROCK009.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/DIYROCK010.jpg
Here pictures of the 2nd drum.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/DIYROCK011.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/DIYROCK012.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/DIYROCK013.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/DIYROCK014.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/davisju1_2006/DIYROCK015.jpg

That rock looks so nice man. Good job! After it dries do you mind posting how much a few pieces weigh?

^ What he said. lol.

That rock looks so nice man. Good job! After it dries do you mind posting how much a few pieces weigh?

^ What he said. lol.

I have the rock back in the drums soaking the next time I have the rock out I will weigh
the rock and let you know what they weigh .

Wow, tagging along. Can't wait to see this finished. I'd love to see a final price on this bad boy too.

I lol'ed @ 180 gallon Fuge and a 300 gallon sump. That is awesome.

Great build! Any ideas when you will begin filling and cycling the tank? Love the diy rock...might have to try this when im feeling creative lol.

i think its about time to post some more pictures

what a fantastic build.

Jr, you have done a great job. Thanks for all the minute details to let the more technical members look inside to see exactly how you have done all of this. I'm sure at least one person will use this as a tutorial in the future.

As for the leak issue, I'm assuming the foam rock walls will prevent the chance of anything hitting the actual epoxy, correct? You have a "backup" built in it seems.

Any updates? This is just an amazing build! Looks like you have the resources to pull this build off and make it pass the test of time! I watched another wood tank built that looks just like yours on another forum. I know his has been up for a few years with no issues. What did you use for the front viewing panel I must have missed it. Acrylic or glass? What thickness?

Will the rocks encrust with coraline? Is that rubble rock or what material did u use to make this

Any updates? This is just an amazing build! Looks like you have the resources to pull this build off and make it pass the test of time! I watched another wood tank built that looks just like yours on another forum. I know his has been up for a few years with no issues. What did you use for the front viewing panel I must have missed it. Acrylic or glass? What thickness?

I haven't had a lot of time to work on the tank lately been really busy at work.On the front viewing panel I'm going to use 3/4 glass I haven't order it yet going to wait tell allmost time to set the tank up because i have the tank at work and don't want anything to happen to it and have to cut the glass back out and redo.

Will the rocks encrust with coraline? Is that rubble rock or what material did u use to make this

Yes rock will encrust with coraline it will end up looking just like the rock you get from the lfs.I used crusted coral in some and crusted Oyster shells with white Portland cement and rock salt.Here is a video on how to make http://www.youtube.c/watch?v=zFPebEdEoMA&feature=related

Don Jr.