75G First SW Build!

I started a build thread on another forum, but I was stagnant on it for a while. Apparently my job doesn't have the same priorities I do ;D. 3reef seems like a better community anyway (we'll keep that between us lol). Anyhow, I'm finally able to do my first SW tank! After reading books and forums for almost 2 years, I feel like the guy melting in an abstract painting. I'm still nervous about taking the plunge, but I guess it's sink or swim at this point lol.

I decided on a 75G because I figured it was small enough to manage, and big enough to absorb some of my newbie mistakes (at least I hope). My biggest dilemma right now is deciding if I should use a controller or learn how to manage it myself before I start adding automation into the picture. I'm leaving for a year in October and I want to make it as easy on my wife as possible.

As of this post I have my tank, stand, and sump (30 long). 90% of what I need should be arriving Friday. I'm supposed to pick up my lights Saturday, and Sunday I'm going to do all the plumbing. The rest of what I need has to wait until the 15th.

I hope everyone can find humor in my headaches lol. Here are some pictures of the progress so far. Many more updates to come so check back often! Oh, and I built the stand, so don't laugh too much! Lol

 

Nice start, and nice size to start with. I would learn how to care for it manually before adding a controller. Just something about understanding it better. Must be tough to build that and then leave it. Automation is nice, but when something goes wrong, you have to know why it did, and what it takes to correct it.

 

Yeah, I'm pretty sure waiting on the controller would be the best idea. That just gives me more money to spend on LR! I would hate for it to break or something and me be clueless on what to do. Thanks for your input!

 

I really like you stand with the extra lip in front of the tank. I plan to do something similar in the future. Plus...more room underneath. Looking good so far

 

Thanks! My goal was to fit a 30g sump and still have room for a 10g tank for the auto top off. I still have the plans I did with sketchup if you think they may be helpful. Let me know and I can attach them to an email.

 

Looks great so far, JLH. Can't wait to see it progress.

 

Thanks Jim. There should be a lot more done by the end of the weekend. My skimmer, pumps, and some more stuff should be in today and ill post some updated pics