60 gal tank

Crimsonvice · Oct 13, 2015

So this is gonna be my first salt water tank. In the last few weeks I have become obsessed. My wife is already making fun of me. LOL! Of course I really didn't know what I was getting into. Started reading forums and watching Craigslist for a tank. Pick this "30 gal tank with salt water stuff" up for $50. When I arrived it ended up being 60 gallons and had 3 Rubbermade tubs of tank supplies. SCORE! So at the moment I sit waiting for funds to drill the tank, get sump going, protein skimmer, and lighting, then I can start working on the actual reef. Seems a long way off, but just taking it one step at a time. Here are a few pictures of the tank and "salt water stuff".

Reefing Madness · Oct 13, 2015

BigAlspets · Oct 13, 2015

Crimsonvice · Oct 25, 2015

Package came in the mail today, so I started early.

I purchased the 1500 gph blemished model, and was extremely surprised when it arrived. The only thing I might consider to be a blemish is a super small scratch on the front that you can only see at an angle.

Marked my desired spot.

Started drilling. It was a little nerve racking, considering this was my first time. Didn't want to crack my baby. The overflow guide was a little larger than the bit, so it danced just a little. Not horrible though. Cut through in maybe three minutes on each side. Pretty clean cuts, other than just a little chipping, with the provided diamond bit.

Moved onto the return. The provided guide was more snug, and there was no dancing drill bit. Again pretty clean cut.

After cutting, I went ahead and Plasti Dipped the rear panel. Just as a side note, I did not cut around the gaskets to reveal the glass, when I should have. It caused some leaking. Once cleaned, no more drips. Should have known that, but I guess I was just excited and didn't think.

Went to Home Depot to get the rest of my plumbing supplies. When I got home to finish up the project, my wife decided to cut her finger off with a kitchen knife (I will spare you the pictures). Needless to say we spent some time getting her stitched back together, and the project will have to sit until tomorrow. WOMEN... Always getting in the way. [emoji12]

Crimsonvice · Oct 28, 2015

Plumbed

Got a t5 fixture and started filling.

Q friend broke down his tank and gave me a clown and a damsel.

It's a little sparse at the moment, but will eventually add more livestock. My tank is wet, but my wallet is dry.

Crimsonvice · Nov 13, 2015

Been up and running for a while now. We painted the stand and was able to purchase some more dry/live rock. I don't know whats next on the shopping list. Probably going to upgrade my light, then some more live stuff.