Arrrgh! This is turning into a major project...

[Polardbear]

So I got this free 75 gallon tank and stand the other day and after some major rework to the stand and serious cleaning of the tank, it's starting to come together.

The stand originally consisted of 3 4x4 uprights topped with 1/2" plywood and 1/8" fake wood paneling wrapped around the outside (with the fake wood grain running horizontally). The plywood top had a major split running all the way across it right in the center of the panel so I replaced it with 3/4" plywood and put some styrofoam on top of that. The fake wood paneling was just so pathetic so I gave it a new facade of solid maple boards. I'm going to be adding some solid wood doors to it but I haven't stained them yet. I've got a few trim pieces to add yet but I wanted to get it in the house then add them later.

Brought the stand in and with my BF's help we got the tank on it. Decided at that point that the wall mounted TV directly over it was not a good idea so had to remove it. Next problem was actually getting it into the corner between the entertainment center and my existing 55 gallon tank setup. After much turning and pushing came to the conclusion that the 55 gallon setup is going to have move down the wall at least 6 inches. That setup is a custom stand I built that not only holds the 55 gallon tank, but also has compartments that contain my 6 bettas. Tried to be optimistic that maybe if we moved all the bettas off it we might be able to slide it the required distance. NOT. So now I will try draining the 55 partially and then trying to slide it again. Fortunately it's on a tile floor so it will slide eventually. Arrrgh! I wanted to be rinsing my sand by now, not still moving furniture.

Here are some pictures of this work in progress -

The temporary betta quarters -

The 55 gallon setup (minus the bettas)

The new tank and stand - so close!

 

[canarsie11]

I know its hard work but you will be happy in the end, keep us posted

 

[yvez9]

next step is taking out the tv and get another tank

Awesome setup!

Watch out if you try to push the 55, only leave enough water to cover the fish as the stand could collapse...

 

[WILDER]

It will be worth it in the end when you sit down and admire the tank and fish , good luck.

 

[canarsie11]

I dont know how many tanks to make fish room, but you are on your way

 

[DannyBoy17]

OMG! I bought a tank just like that, used, off a family friend! It's difficult to work with, yes? The only difference is mine is 100g. I had trouble making my hood, with space for the hardware. Good luck mate!

 

[Polardbear]

No kidding - it's a horrible shape to work with. I'm going to make the hood next, just thinking about it is giving me a headache.

I'm not to worried about pushing the 55 setup, it's very sturdy. It actually sits on a pedestal of 4x4's hidden behind the baseboards. And the sides and center upright pieces are doubled 3/4" oak plywood. The back is also 3/4" oak plywood. It's also incredibly heavy although you don't realize it when you look at it.

 

[Mr Miagi]

u could always try lubrecating the floor with something........lol

It will look awsome once u finish it though. Goodluck.

 

[DannyBoy17]

For the hood, I planned the filters, the heater, and anything else going inside the aquariym, then, I did the measurements, and cut 1/8 inch plexi glass sections. 1/8'' held up until just recently, so we are cutting a new hood using 1/4'' thick plexi. I just use individual lighting fixtures, right now one from Petsmart, and I am thinking about buying another one from Home Depot. It's a tough project, but it ends up looking *beautiful*.

Cheers.

 

[Polardbear]

I syphoned out 25 gallons of water and was able to slide the 55 gal tank down the wall. I love the tile floor in this house, it's slick enough that I can pretty much move any piece of furniture I have easily. It does have draw backs though, my sectional sofa is constantly sliding around the living room. I'm still not entirely happy with how the 75 gallon fits in the corner though so I'll probably be pushing the entertainment center around some more tomorrow. At least it has built in wheels.

I think I qualify for MTS already. In addition to the 75 gal, the 55 gal and the 6 individual betta tanks, I have 2 Rubbermaid 26 gal grow out tanks, 2 15 gal Rubbermaid fry tanks and 2 more 10 gal tanks. One of the 10 gals is currently in my bathroom (for lack of any more counter space) housing the newest 3 swordtails who will be the first occupants of the 75.

I made a cover for one of the 10 gal tanks from 1/4" plexiglass a while back. The problem I have with it is that it tends to sag.

I may be able to get away with just making a partial hood for the very back section of the tank if I can get the wood canopy that's going to hold the lights to work out right. I picked up 3 25" stick lights at Home Depot that I'm going to try to squeeze into the canopy.

Now I just need to figure out some cheap way to decorate this thing. I dont have any spare plastic plants right now and I can't afford any live ones for a while. I'm picturing this huge tank with white sand and tons of light and 3 little paranoid swordtails cruising around in it. I don't even have any rocks I could put in it. May have to make them some caves out of spare Tupperware bowls...