55G diy stand, with pics!

Discussion in 'I made this!' started by benbabcock, Jul 2, 2010.

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  1. benbabcock

    benbabcock Bubble Tip Anemone

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    So, i made a stand for my 55G. it is a 4x4 and 2x4 frame with 1/4" ply skin and 3/4" on the top where the aquarium will rest. i decided to plan it so i did not need a center support, giving me easy access to the sump below, hence the 4x4. they are notched on the top and bottom to accommodate a 2x4 flush(pic 1). whole thing was build for a 'lil under 100$. feels REALLY sturdy but not so level, needs a coat of paint and some doors and its good to go.
     

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  3. steve wright

    steve wright Super Moderator

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    Im no carpenter, Ben Babcock

    but that looks like a nice , clean and tidy job to me
    I take it there will be a front loaded sump under there?

    Steve
     
  4. hddoutside

    hddoutside Fire Shrimp

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    there a big jump for pic 3 to pic 4 lol but other than that it looks good. what stain color are you using. i like brickstone the semi-solid not semi-transparent
     
  5. Seano Hermano

    Seano Hermano Giant Squid

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  6. benbabcock

    benbabcock Bubble Tip Anemone

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    hi all. between 3-4 there is just a 1/4" plywood skin and molding. i stained it in a nice dark red to match my living room rug and couch but it was a Gel type stain which i had never used before. needless to say it was a disaster and i repainted it in a aqua blue to match the display wall. it still needs doors but that will be really easy (just gunna use plywood and molding). i also bought a 1-1/4" spade bit to drill it for my overflow and return.

    Thanks for the comments,

    Ben
     

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  7. ReefSparky

    ReefSparky Super Moderator

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  9. ibefishy

    ibefishy Montipora Capricornis

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    Nice work, looks very sturdy. The funny thing I built my stand 2 years ago the same way with the 4x4's and the same joints. And then painted it the same color. I was going to do black but my wife didnt want black so she chose that same color. One of the few times I am glad I listened to her;D