FishStix

Hello,

Five months in and I already want a larger tank than the 35 hex I currently have set up.

I'm really looking for a 55 gallon but would consider up to 75 gallons. I found this one on craigslist: http://bham.craigslist.org/fuo/1275813890.html

Does this look like a good deal? I sent them an email asking about age and if they have been using it recently. What other questions should I ask? If I went to look at it what things should I pay attention too to help determine if it is in good shape?

Also, other than more gravel what other costs could I be looking at as far as equipment. I currently have a Magnum 350 Deluxe Filter which I believe goes up to 100 gallons. My marineland heater only goes to 50 gallons so I know I'd have to buy a new heater too (I've been planning on upgrading to the fully submersible version anyway).

Thanks!

FishStix

Anyone?? He's responded that it is 8 years old and has not been in use the past 2 years. During that time it has sat in his garage.

What other questions should I ask and what should I look for - we may go see it this afternoon...

Thanks!! :-)

aquarist48

Good morning. Personally I think it's a very nice find. No leaks, chips or major scratches? Glass or acrylic? Is the tank drilled (for overflow system)? Just a few things you may want to ask in advance. Keep us posted and let us know what you decide. Have fun!

FishStix

Here is some more info he just gave me:

This stand is is great shape. Not a single problem. The glass on the tank is great. There is a small chip on one corner, but it has been there almost the entire time I've had it. The last time I filled it up it did not leak at all. I will try to get it out in a few minutes and clean it up and check for leaks.

We are going to leave in about an hour to go look at it. It's about an hour and a half drive for us.

Oh gosh, I don't know about drilled for overflow system What is that? Is that to do with being a larger tank?

Regal

It looks like a great deal to me. Looks like a beautiful stand and canopy. I'd check for leaks but other than that it looks like a really good find at a great price. You would probably be fine with one heater for a while in Alabama in the summer. The Magnum 350 is good for a 75 gallon but you may end up wanting to add more filtration later. You could add the bio wheel to the 350 and that would be perfect.

An tank with an overflow would have a box of some sort where the water would flow out or have holes drilled into the tank for a filter system. I don't have experience with them but you would know it if you see it.

Go for it! It's a great find!

FishStix

Thanks to both of you! We are heading out right now - I'll let you know later how it turned out!

Regal

Good luck! Let us know how it goes.

FishStix

Well, we bought the tank. The quality and condition of the stand isn't all I hoped for but I'm excited to have 75 gallons anyway! We ended up paying $125. We've cleaned up the stand and the canopy and it looks better already. We are going to put some new hardware on the doors which should help spruce it up a bit too. Now we just gotta clean the tank! It will probably be next weekend before we attempt the switch, which I'm not sure how will work exactly but I'm sure I'll be asking some more questions (I'll move to the beginner threads for that!)!

harpua2002

Congrats on the new tank!

You know, a nice coat of paint would spruce up that stand too in addition to the new hardware. We ended up getting a 120 and stand off Craigslist for $150, but the stand was ugly so we paid someone to "skin" it with plywood and molding. Then my husband painted it black and put the new hardware on it, and it's almost as good as new!

Regal

Glad it worked out. The stand and canopy look good in the picture. Switching the tanks doesn't sound like to much fun but it'll be worth it when its all set up.

FishStix

We thouroughly discussed painting it but in the end when we got it inside in the living room where it will sit it doesn't look too bad. We just got the tank cleaned up, it wasn't dirty hardly at all. We have it outside though filled with water for a little while just to make sure there are no leaks. Its my nightmare to have it all set up inside and Whoooosshhhh - it all busts apart. I don't know if that ever happens to people but its something I worry about!! :-)

gmen4life

well im a filter junkie so i would say more filters but thats just me lol sweet deal have fun with it hope you can seed it and not have any mini cycle type stuff

FishStix

lol, I may end up with another filter in time. I'm going to see how this goes first for a little while! I'm over on the beginner thread getting tips on transferring everything and avoiding a mini cycle!!

harpua2002

I think you should add another filter. I never trust the manufacturer's rating on filters. I have a 75 gallon with a Rena XP2 and Aquaclear 110 and they do a great job.

FishStix

Thanks for the suggestion. I will start looking into them!

Guess what I just figured out? This thing is 85 gallons, not 75!

Tony G.

holy moly you are ucky to have found this 85 gal tank you shoud take a pic of it

FishStix

Here it is! You can see my 35 gallon behind it. I swear it keeps looking bigger everytime I look at it!! I'll definitely post pics when I get it set up (next weekend hopefully).

gmen4life

man looks awesome

ATKINSON

Great find!!

aquarist48

Moving Tanks Blog
For future reference I listed a thread above concerning moving tanks. I think you'll find it a big help to you when the time comes.
I'm glad you were able to purchase the tank at such a GREAT price. Have fun with it and enjoy. Don't forget to post
Have a good day today and again congrats on the new tank!

FishStix

Thanks all! I can't wait to get it set up!

Thanks for the link aquarist. Wow, I'm worried about moving my fish across the room, I can't imagine a 6 hour drive in there, lol!

ooibhuskyoo

Oh man. what a good find. I love craigslist. LOL I found my 60 gallon for really cheap... so cheap in fact, it was free =)

FishStix

Wow, can't beat free!!!