25 gallon nano build . . . Downsizing =(

Looks great so far. I can't wait to see the finished product. I wish I had the space to do a nice qbuild like that.

 

I agree it will be well worth the extra time to get the lights just the way you want them from the start. On that note, have you planned for an ATO. It helps a lot with smaller tanks where salinity can shift rather quickly. I would build a small shelf in the stand while your in that phase so it's an option later.

 

I'll prob do a 3-5 gallon gravity fed deal for the ATO, I gotta find the right container first, then I can get it all situated. I'm thinking about a gas container, but still undecided.

~Will.

 

where did you get that tank from?

 

I got it off a local reef club forum. There is no markings on it so I can only assume it was a custom job.

~Will.

 

Great looking project Love the design you built!!

 

great setup.. I hate to hear you had to down size but it happens to us all at one point or another. K+ for keeping a reef though..

 

Another small update . . .

I got more of the skinning done, and started the halide mount. Also did some finish work on the beer ledge by adding a piece of 1/4" ply over the 1/2" piece but cut out around where the tank is so it looks seamlessly recessed into the shelf. I added on some trim to try and finish it off a bit.


(please ignore all the sanding I have yet to do : )

I found this really cool little device in an old box of computer modding junk I have. It takes a 12v and a 5v source in, and splits it into 6 ports. The LED's indicate weather your putting out 5v or 12v to each channel depending on where the 3 position switch is (red = 5v, blue = 12v). I'm planning on making a nice housing for it and using it for circulation fans (1 over the halide, 3 across the back of the unit pulling air in, 1 pulling air our by the ballast, and 1 blowing over the sump) so I can regulate how loud the fans are vs. how much air I need to be moving.



A couple days ago I met someone that works with acrylic and we might try to work out a deal for a nice custom sump and ATO reservoir. My stepfather wants to spray this thing black with a really nice gun he has, but that paint is pretty expensive. we would also have to bondo the whole thing but the end result should be pretty cool.

~Will.

 

Nice setup. You are a very talented person. You must have felt badly to give up your big tank. I would never know how that feels. All I have ever had is my 10 gallon nano & I am quite happy. It is more of a challenge. They are far less forgiving than the big setups. Enjoy ! )

 

i wish i had the skills and knowledge you do. btw have you sold your 60 inch T5 yet? i am looking for one