120 gallon salty build

[Rcslade124]

Also I finally am getting ready to start building my gfs salty tank. I have been researching for about a month. I have most narrowed down and I am slowly getting the parts needed. So I thought I would start a build thread for it! So here goes.

First things first equipment list..
1- 120 gallon 48x24x24 (getting this weekend)
2- 40 gallon sump with refugium (already have)
3- was going to be 3 kessil a80. This will not do with a 24" tank. (have kessil)
3a- Sell Kessil a80 get stronger LEDs
3b- T5 and 3 Kessil
4- Bubble Magus curve 7 (higher bioload)
4a- Ice cap k1-160
5- Current eflux 1900 gph return pump (have already)
6- Current 1050 gph wave pumps
7- 60-80 lbs dry rock
8- 20 lbs dry rubble
9- 30 lbs live rock
10- 90lbs live sand
11- Custom stand 50x25x40.

Planned Stock List
2- clownfish
1- wrasse
1- marine betta
1- picasso triggerfish.
A lot of CUC. (Hermits, snails, urchins, and the like)
Probably others as time passes.
I want some Softy corals
And anemone for the clowns.

That's the plan. Will start posting pics as I put it all together. Plan to finish stand and start painting this weekend.

 

[Amazoniantanklvr]

I'm no salty expert (I don't even have a marine tank) but I do know that you could add a few more fish. A yellow tang would be nice in there. Cant wait to see pics!!

 

[Rcslade124]

Tangs need bigger tanks but I guess I could grow out a tang for a year or 2. I can definitely get a few more fish but I don't know what yet.

 

[Amazoniantanklvr]

Tangs need bigger tanks but I guess I could grow out a tang for a year or 2.

I'm going to respectfully disagree with you. The minimum tank size for a yellow tang is a 55. They'd have to be one of the only fish in the tank though. A kole tang, powder blue tang, purple tang and a TominI Tang would also fit in your tank (obviously only one or two).

 

[Rcslade124]

Maybe a 6 foot 120g. But I guess a 10 inch fish in 48 inch tanks not horrible. But they would like more room. I'm just starting so a 120 gallon for now. But it's wide not long.

 

[Amazoniantanklvr]

Can I get the dimensions?

 

[Rcslade124]

48lx24wx24h

 

[Amazoniantanklvr]

48lx24wx24h

That's the length of a 55 so a yellow tang or a tominI tang would work.

 

[Rcslade124]

I will def keep that in mind.

 

[saltwater60]

Sounds good. Only thing I’d say is a 24” tall tank is hard to maintain unless you’re tall or have long arms. I did a 60 gallon cube tank that was 24” tall and I got rid of it fast. I hated it.

 

[Rcslade124]

I'm 6'4" so I'll make it work. It will stand about 5ft with stand. So even I might need a chair.

 

[altwitch]

I'm so confused by this discussion - begging for clarity. I have a 120 gallon myself with identical dimensions to what I believe you are trying to describe. It's 4 ft wide by 2 ft deep by 2 ft tall. Please confirm for commenters if that's what you're working with as I'm seeing some feedback that doesn't seem to line up with your fairly clear initial post. That said, I'm a hater for 'hard rules' posters; while I respect all opinions there are a lot of variables that go into managing a tank that folks often assume. One of the biggest ones is that someone is/is-not responsible enough to re-home or LFS fish after an amount of time if they outgrow the tank; I see nothing wrong with that plan as long as you have it figgered out.

One disclaimer is I'm a freshwater, not marine guy (yet) and feel comfortable discussing tank sizing decisions, etc. but don't know marine species. In any event, sounds like an awesome project. I hope to follow in the footsteps before too long when finances from our move settle down some. Corals and anemones are cool!

 

[Rcslade124]

Yes the tank is 4ft by 2ft and 2ft tall. If I were to get a fish to grow out I would plan upgrade within a year. Tangs just get large and active swimmers. But it's my gfs dream fish. So I might have to get one. I am trying to do this tank right from the start. Nothing left out. Pics to come this weekend!

 

[Marsh980]

Hi, I look forward to following your build/aquarium thread. I'm too starting my first saltwater tank and currently waiting for the system to arrive. Totally agree about trying to get it right from day 1 and not rush any of the important first key steps.

 

[saltwater60]

I personally think you’d be fine with a yellow tang. I had a powder brown for years in my 75 gallon. He was completely happy.
You can usually tell by behavior if they are stressed out. Get a smaller one to start and see how it grows into the 120. By all means if you want to upgrade I’ll live vicariously through your tank with only a hint of jealousy.

 

[Rcslade124]

Pulled the plug... Here's the setup on stand with the 40 gallon breeder sump... Coming together nicely!

 

[Rcslade124]

So we just did a 3 day water test holds water. Some of my trim Is in bad shape. So I'm going to try to remove the top trim and put 3 glass braces. Bowed out about 1/4 inch. So 2 on ends and one in middle should hold the top. For bottom trim I was planning on supporting the trim with wood bracing or pvc angle trim.

 

[Rcslade124]

So I have almost finished with the stand. Need to trim and paint the outside blue to match the living room decor. Then attach the doors. So a little planning on how to attach the doors.

I also have removed the trim off the top of the tank it didn't serve much of a purpose like it bowed 1/4 of an inch and the center brace was removed. I plan 3 pieces of glass 3 inches by 2 feet to brace the top.

Next step glass for the top, sump baffles, and overflow!!

 

[Marsh980]

Looks great, can’t wait for you to finish it and get cycling.

Building your own set up must bring so much satisfaction

 

[Rcslade124]

It is rewarding watching it come together. I can customize what I want. A full setup would be nice also. Plug and fill would be nice at times. I enjoy the challenge

 

[Marsh980]

It is rewarding watching it come together. I can customize what I want. A full setup would be nice also. Plug and fill would be nice at times. I enjoy the challenge

It definitely has its benefits building and customising your own. I don't have anywhere near enough experience or knowledge to build my own yet. It certainly is a rewarding challenge

 

[Rcslade124]

It definitely has its benefits building and customising your own. I don't have anywhere near enough experience or knowledge to build my own yet. It certainly is a rewarding challenge

Yes it's rewarding to me to build it all. Looks like glass will be a no go I haven't called but they closed non essential businesses today. But I'm calling now to check.

 

[TWiG87]

It’s funny how small that 40B looks under the 120 gallon! That’s going to be an awesome setup once complete

 

[Rcslade124]

It’s funny how small that 40B looks under the 120 gallon! That’s going to be an awesome setup once complete

Oh it's definitely tiny compared to the 120 gallon I was shocked how much smaller it is

 

[Rcslade124]

I finally decided to order pre built sump baffles. This design was just like my plans for my diy baffles. I figured in the work to get pieces cut right and stable in the sump and decided that this model would be ideal for what I am doing. I requested all black pieces and the maker agreed. So I'm excited
Triton Refugium baffle kit - 40 Gallon breeder | eBay

I am deciding on which overflow now. Probably the exotic marine overflow free shipping. I hate I have to get the drill bit myself others have one included but this is the longest internal weir at 32" and not a bad price.

 

[Rcslade124]

Ordered the this overflow here. So one step closer.
32" Overflow Kit with 1" drains
Now I have 140$ in plumbing in my cart to order. So I should be building sump and plumbing next weekend.

 

[Rcslade124]

Plumbing ordered. E6000 adhesive for sump baffles.
Ordering 90lbs of kp aquatics dry rock today. So it's getting real. All that's left are wave pumps sand live rock and light.
Will be holding up on overflow. I'm guessing it will be a couple weeks reading about their shipping turn around. Ugh lol

 

[saltwater60]

How exciting.

 

[Marsh980]

Exciting news buddy. Hopefully the delays won’t be too bad

 

[Rcslade124]

Thanks. It's coming closer. I'm super stoked. This is planning at tank x10. Freshwater is what substrate decorations plants filter light and go. Saltwater is all the above plus more in depth understanding of what filtration is how to remove nutrients. What will be in the tank for how strong lights are. I like the planning and research. Let's hope it all goes smooth as possible

 

[Rcslade124]

90lbs of Kp dry rock arrived today. It's nice and porous and some large pieces. Here's a picture all layed out and a quick scape I did before storing it away from the babies!

 

[Marsh980]

Very nice mate, looks great and so very close to getting water in.

Does the towel represent the sides of the tank?

 

[Rcslade124]

Almost the towel is 1 inch to short long and 3 inches too wide. . It is getting a lot closer to water. I'm getting more excited

 

[saltwater60]

Not sure where you live but I’m in NYS and everything is shutting down. I’d get what you need to be where you want to be ASAP.
I have some yard work to do and I just looked to order my dirt and stone and I can’t get it. All shutdown!
it will be a disaster because that’s how I make my money for fish and supplies is I landscape on the side. I have money set aside but was looking to do another build that will have to wait a year or so I’m guessing. May and June I make 75% of my cash flow so I guess there’s still time to save some of my season.
Although I just lost 3 jobs that totaled to over $2,000 cash in hand profit at the end of the jobs. People are losing their jobs left and right here and are scared to spend money.

 

[Rcslade124]

Not sure where you live but I’m in NYS and everything is shutting down. I’d get what you need to be where you want to be ASAP.
I have some yard work to do and I just looked to order my dirt and stone and I can’t get it. All shutdown!
it will be a disaster because that’s how I make my money for fish and supplies is I landscape on the side. I have money set aside but was looking to do another build that will have to wait a year or so I’m guessing. May and June I make 75% of my cash flow so I guess there’s still time to save some of my season.
Although I just lost 3 jobs that totaled to over $2,000 cash in hand profit at the end of the jobs. People are losing their jobs left and right here and are scared to spend money.

As of now here in WV it isn't too bad. Only had cases for two weeks. I just need sand powerheads a light and skimmer. So a bit but I'm looking at ordering thoose soon as possible. Just have to wait for my overflow to come. And then some live rock. Lol always more to get when I think about it

 

[Marsh980]

I only ask because you want to leave enough room by the glass if you decide to get a magnetic scrapers, they’re pretty deep lol.

I being new to saltwater hobby had to replace a few rocks because I couldn’t slide it across haha

 

[saltwater60]

As of now here in WV it isn't too bad. Only had cases for two weeks. I just need sand powerheads a light and skimmer. So a bit but I'm looking at ordering thoose soon as possible. Just have to wait for my overflow to come. And then some live rock. Lol always more to get when I think about it

That’s not too bad.
just keep in mind that’s how it started here in my county. Went from 3-7 and then basically doubled everyday after that.
Just stay safe all!!

 

[Rcslade124]

I only ask because you want to leave enough room by the glass if you decide to get a magnetic scrapers, they’re pretty deep lol.

I being new to saltwater hobby had to replace a few rocks because I couldn’t slide it across haha

Yes I plan to have about 3 inches around all sides of rock if not more.

That’s not too bad.
just keep in mind that’s how it started here in my county. Went from 3-7 and then basically doubled everyday after that.
Just stay safe all!!

Yes I know it will get bad. We have a few more weeks before it gets really bad here. I'm an essential employee so I'll be here unless I'm sick. My hands are so dry from washing them ugh

 

[saltwater60]

Yes I plan to have about 3 inches around all sides of rock if not more.

Yes I know it will get bad. We have a few more weeks before it gets really bad here. I'm an essential employee so I'll be here unless I'm sick. My hands are so dry from washing them ugh

Same here. I’m essential but I’m mandated to be working from home with a no contact order with others for now. We will see where that leads.

 

[Rcslade124]

Sump done! I bought a caulking spreader so I can make it look professional... Hahahah looks like a 4yr old finger painted with adhesive. All parts are in place and drying. Let them dry up to 72 hrs for a full cure and then leak test each section.

 

[saltwater60]

Sump done! I bought a caulking spreader so I can make it look professional... Hahahah looks like a 4yr old finger painted with adhesive. All parts are in place and drying. Let them dry up to 72 hrs for a full cure and then leak test each section.
View attachment 682601View attachment 682602

Looks good to me. Keep on trucking.

 

[Rcslade124]

I am wondering and you might be able to help me. I am looking into filter socks. And I found this. Do you think this would work for a filter sock? And would it even be cost efficient to have to toss after use? Idk how you would recharge it.
Activated Carbon Felt Sheets | Samples & Custom Sizes | In Stock

Also a side shot will show how bad it looks lol. I'll get one in am

 

[saltwater60]

I personally wouldn’t use them. Says they are activated by steam or chemicals. What chemicals and are they harmful to fish but ok for humans? Also seem very expensive and In my Opinion you don’t need carbon constantly o my if there is an off odor.
Also not sure how effective they’d be as a filter sock replacement.
im not saying not too but I never used a filter sock. I used a sponge on my overflow so I guess that’s similar. If your doing sps and want the tank as clean as possible a filter sock is a good idea.

 

[Marsh980]

Could you fit in the Bubblemagus filter roller. I’ve been super impressed with mine. That alongside a skimmer seems to be a great combination.

The roll will last 2-3 months and cheap and easy to replace

I believe BRS did a review of it on their YouTube channel.

 

[Rcslade124]

I personally wouldn’t use them. Says they are activated by steam or chemicals. What chemicals and are they harmful to fish but ok for humans? Also seem very expensive and In my Opinion you don’t need carbon constantly o my if there is an off odor.
Also not sure how effective they’d be as a filter sock replacement.
im not saying not too but I never used a filter sock. I used a sponge on my overflow so I guess that’s similar. If your doing sps and want the tank as clean as possible a filter sock is a good idea.

Yeah that was my thought also. Just thought it would be a good way to use carbon at times. Regular socks will work.

Could you fit in the Bubblemagus filter roller. I’ve been super impressed with mine. That alongside a skimmer seems to be a great combination.

The roll will last 2-3 months and cheap and easy to replace

I believe BRS did a review of it on their YouTube channel.

I don't have room for a roller in my sump area

 

[Rcslade124]

Here's my next thing to order. Which skimmer?
The bubble Magus is a little undersized but not bad
Bubble Magus Curve 5 Elite Protein Skimmer with Sicce SK-200 - AquaCave.com

Aquamaxx a little oversized.
AquaMaxx ConeS Q-2 In-Sump Protein Skimmer - AquaCave.com

Or the ice cap that's also a little oversized.
IceCap K2 200 Protein Skimmer - AquaCave.com

Anyone have thoughts.

 

[saltwater60]

Here's my next thing to order. Which skimmer?
The bubble Magus is a little undersized but not bad
Bubble Magus Curve 5 Elite Protein Skimmer with Sicce SK-200 - AquaCave.com

Aquamaxx a little oversized.
AquaMaxx ConeS Q-2 In-Sump Protein Skimmer - AquaCave.com

Or the ice cap that's also a little oversized.
IceCap K2 200 Protein Skimmer - AquaCave.com

Anyone have thoughts.

I’d personally go with the bubble magnus. I had one and loved it.
reasons being if you look at the middle one it doesn’t give you pump water and air intake. Maybe you could find it elsewhere but it’s not there.
the rating in gallon size is all just relative and a number put on it by the manufacturer.
The sump water level for the bubble magnus is higher and to me that’s a benefit because then you don’t need a stand and all that. Also the pump Air and water intake are higher on the bubble magnus than the K2 so in theory it should work better even though it’s rated slightly smaller in size.
Also you know your stocking. Are you going to stock heavy and add a lot of sps corals? If so I’d consider going larger.

 

[Rcslade124]

It will be slightly heavily stocked I'll probably feed heavily because I always do in freshwater. I don't necessarily plan sps but I might. With a decent refugium I don't mind some organics making into the refugium. So I guess the bubble Magus. Maybe I go with the basic curve 7 instead of the upgraded pump in elite models

 

[Rcslade124]

I'm impatient and since e6000 is waterproof soon after applying it so I leave tested. Only one part leaked and that is because I didn't seal the back seam so will dry and seal it. Here's pics

 

[Rcslade124]

Setup at 11" of water gives me a 14g refugium. So little over 10% of display size