530g Tank Setup and Plumbing Help :)

[JK47]

JK47 ran into another stumbling block. My floor is not perfectly level. There are low spots so not all four corners touch. Any recommendations for shims? Plastic ones ok? Also, as long as all corners touch and not the entire length of steel it’s ok right?

I read I need to make corner to corner is level. When using a level, does it need to be perfectly level or does the bubble just need to be inside the lines?

Generally speaking in between the lines is good. Nothing 1/4 in or out. Put the level on top of the tank closest to the edge (supported level surface) and do the same on the top side (front to back).

Composite door shins are dirt cheap and way better than wood.

 

[JK47]

Thinking these shims

https://www.homedepot.com/p/8-in-Composite-Shim-Bundle-of-12-SHM1-12-TW/202807695

Just about any will do. Those are nice because the excess “snaps” off.

 

[nzafi]

Stand is skimmed. Putting the tank on later today and which check his level. Im very lucky to have a brother and friends that agrees to come back today after wasting their time yesterday.

 

[nzafi]

Forgot to upload pic.

 

[nzafi]

JK47 tank on the stand but have a couple questions. The first pic show the spot where the tank is least level. Is this ok? The second pic shows that there are spots where the tank is just barely not touch the plywood. This scares me, is it a problem?

 

[JK47]

JK47 tank on the stand but have a couple questions. The first pic show the spot where the tank is least level. Is this ok? The second pic shows that there are spots where the tank is just barely not touch the plywood. This scares me, is it a problem?

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Don’t worry about the tank not touching. That will settle just as soon as it fills. Many tanks are like that especially after swapping out plywood. I would add some more shims to bring that corner up back within the lines.

 

[nzafi]

Don’t worry about the tank not touching. That will settle just as soon as it fills. Many tanks are like that especially after swapping out plywood. I would add some more shims to bring that corner up back within the lines.

There’s also gaps between the plywood and the stand. I’m assuming that will also settle?

I’ll try adding shims but with the tank on there not sure it will help.

So stressful and frustrating.

 

[JK47]

There’s also gaps between the plywood and the stand. I’m assuming that will also settle?

I’ll try adding shims but with the tank on there not sure it will help.

So stressful and frustrating.

Truthfully bro this is how they all go if your a perfectionist with a big ass tank. Embrace the challenge and enjoy leading the pack.

Yes the wood will settle too. If you have a nail hammer carefully pound in a couple of shims. They are made to be used in odd combos. Don’t snap off excess until the tanks full

 

[mrrobxc]

Slow progress and this project dragging is getting annoying. I originally planned to be done by June 15th but between other things going on, tank delivered late, and not having folks around to help move stuff has caused a couple week delay.

Finally got the 180g dissambled and my 40g breeder up and running for my current fish. Here is a pic of the 40g and the space for the 530g. Need to finish painting the wall (you can see I painted around the 180g). Family and friends are coming over tomorrow to help me get the 530g tank and stand into place. All parts have arrived and plumbing begins Monday. Hoping to have the tank up and running by Wed/Thurs.

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On a build of this size, it’s to be expected that you’ll have delays. Only the pros can put up a tank this size quickly. Enjoy the process as best you can. It’ll all be worth it in the end.

 

[nzafi]

JK47 couple questions. How tight do you make your bulkheads? I’ve read hand right, and others recommend a wrench. Also, I know I should wait 24hrs to let pvc cement cure before turning on filters, but can I fill the tank and let the water sit? I want to make sure there are no leaks around the bulkheads.