Frank's New 120 Build

[Frank@Wall]

Hi MR,

So I finally decided to start my 120gal 48x24x24 reef build and to start a thread on this. I actually wanted to do this the beginning of the year but too many stuff just happened and could not start.

So with that said this is the plan.

I will do a DIY stand and canopy and also a DIY LED set up from Rapid LED. I was looking at the AI's and Radions but decided to do it myself. This way if I dont like colors I can just swap out and also the price tag was a factor as well. I will post some sort of a diagram of the color combo I would like to use when I get a chance and of course anyone can chime in on that.

I will use a full Apex controller. Ordered a GFO and Carbon reactor from BRS along with 3 dosers and Pukani Rock. Also ordered 2 MP40's and they are on the way as well. The sump return pump will be an Eheim 1262. This was a debate between the Eheim and Water Blaster 7000.
I will also build my own sump of a 40 Breeder. I will reuse my Reef Octopus skimmer but hopefully Santa will bring a new one towards the end of the year.

I still have time to decide to go Bare Bottom or Deep Sand. Any input on this would be appreciated but leaning towards having sand because of the little critters I can have in the tank.

So for now this is all I have. I will update as items arrive and throughout the built.

Like I mentioned before any input is and will be appreciated on any subjects, warnings and equipment.

 

[Fgtank]

Building the same

Hey I am also doing the same size tank,using radion xr30's (2), 2 mp40's, blue line 70 hd pump(sump/refug. Is in basement) super reef oct. skimmer, 75 gal. Sump/ refug. I'm just gonna tag along for info. Thanks...oh yea, I am also frank.

 

[Frank@Wall]

Rocks, sand, pumps, dosers, reactors and all that I need arrived except LED's but no rush for that. Im having issues inserting pictures, never had issues before. Anyone else having problems?

Sent from my SGH-T989 using Reefs

 

[jackson6745]

Looking forward to your progress

 

[Fgtank]

Haven't tried to post pictures yet. Can't wait to see your set up. I'm just waiting on my sump, and the cabinet for the tank is still being built, other than these hold ups I'm ready to roll.

 

[MikeC]

Hi Frank sounds like you're off to a good start.

I have a 120 about 10 months old now.
You didn't mention if you have the tank yet?
If you don't I would recommend to go with two overflows and corner over flows at that.
You will appreciate the room in between the overflows for the rock work.
Also I recommend you look into the "herby method" for your overflow and return.

Best of luck

 

[Frank@Wall]

Thx Mike, yes I had the tank now for over a year sitting in the closet, only has one overflow.

Sent from my SGH-T989 using Reefs

 

[Frank@Wall]

Started working on the sump.

Sent from my SGH-T989 using Tapatalk 2

 

[Fgtank]

Looks good keep the pictures coming!

 

[Frank@Wall]

Sump is done. Will let the silicone cure for 2 days. Installed eggcrates in middle compartment on top of baffles hoping that it will keep chateo and other algeas from escaping.

Gonna start on temporary plumbing to cycle tank and to break in Tunze return pump.

 

[Frank@Wall]

Gonna start on stand and canopy.

Sent from my SGH-T989 using Reefs

 

[Frank@Wall]

Received my return pump and mp40's erlier today.

 

[Fgtank]

Shaping up nice keep pictures coming. Still waiting for my stand, so I can everything up and running.

 

[samksy]

Rocks, sand, pumps, dosers, reactors and all that I need arrived except LED's but no rush for that. Im having issues inserting pictures, never had issues before. Anyone else having problems?

Sent from my SGH-T989 using Reefs

I see you decided to use sand, just keep in mind, some fishes loves the sand, like wrasses.

Putting led together takes a good amount of effort and if you think you can do it better than the commercial made one, go for it, if not i would just go with what's available out there. The resell valve is higher and the prices have come down these years, and they look nice and sleak.

Good luck on your build! tagging along.

 

[Frank@Wall]

The frame of the stand is done. Used 4x4's. I will have it seperated from the actual finish so that if I need access under the tank from any side I can just remove the whole finish. Maybe it makes no sense untill you guys see the finished product.

 

[Frank@Wall]

Stand finish and canopy done.

 

[lnevo]

Great woodwork! Looks fantastic!

 

[Frank@Wall]

Thx, im planning to stain it.

Sent from my SGH-T989 using Reefs

 

[Jaftica]

looks great!!

 

[Frank@Wall]

Thx, im kind of proud of it. I like the fact that I used crown molding so I will have a nice thick lip all around the stand. I can place anything on it when im working on the tank or just doing simple feeding.