LGangway's 55gal Build

So... after reading a ton on 3reef and doing some research, I've started some work on my 55gal setup. I started with a standard 55gal tank 48"L x 12"D x 19"H, Proclear Wet/Dry Bio-ball filter, Proclear Protein Skimmer w/ Rio800 pump, and a Mag5 for return.

I recently sold my bio-ball and invested in a 29gal for a sump/fuge. I also drilled the back of my tank for drain and return plumbing and will be creating a internal overflow for the tank (already created one that is clear, then realized I should just order some black plexi to create one I can install to hide the plumbing).
Here is the one I made that's clear.


Here are some pics of my beginning...
Drilling the tank - Plumbers putty then filled with water to keep the drill bit cool.

Holes completed


Bulk heads installed and tank painted.


Now onto the Sump/Fuge.
Installing Baffles


Baffles installed, def. have to clean up some excess silicone...



I will be starting the construction of the stand tomorrow so I can get my sump/fuge in and begin plumbing... Not sure when I will start adding water, but I'm definitely waiting on my RO/DI unit that should arrive mid week.

It's def. starting to come together...

 

props to ya for drilling your own glass tank ;p

 

Thanks, just didn't want to crack my tank... after drilling both holes only a little chip out occurred so I'm happy with it.

Purchased some lock-line today too for the return plumbing, can't wait to get it installed...

 

question for ya. what drill bit did you use? and how thick was the glass?

 

Purchased a bit from aquacave.com. 45mm and my glass thickness is 1/4".

 

I built my stand yesterday and will be finishing it tomorrow, pictures to come...

 

Well just dive right in, I would have been terrified to drill. That is great job. Looking forward to the finished product.

 

Pictures of my stand...




Picked up some plumbing materials today, I'll start the plumbing work tomorrow and update pictures of that when I'm done...

 

Thats a fine looking cabinet/ stand you have there IMO LGangway

are you leaving it the natural wood colour and just varnishing it to protect against damp?

Steve

 

As soon as the wife decides what color she wants to paint it, we are painting it... I'll post come pics after we have it painted as well.