DIy Tank Stand

[likestofish]

This is my first attempt at a stand. I am building it for my 135 in the basement but i am worried it might not be strong enough to hold the weight. Supposedly it should be able to hold up to 1500 pounds. The center brace isnt don yet also im going to cover it up in plywood and make a cabinet style stand.

 

[john73738]

Dimentions???

The 4x4 is overkill, could be build with 2x4. The one I am building for a 250-300 will be 2x4. However since you already have the 4x4 in place, the only changes I would make is to add 2x4 supports next to the legs to add extra support on the top frame, also you will want supports on the top frame appx every 12" to reduce any sag in the top plywood.


Here is the design I am using for all my tanks, Keep in mind still overkill but I do not have the abilities to make entirely out of plywood. This particular one is 48" and I left out top supports to show the sump.

Good luck, search this forum, or try here http://www.aquaristsonline.com/blog/aquarium-diy/diy-aquarium-stand-resources/ I found the design I am using here.

Bear

 

[johncl]

Just my 2 cents.

The 4x4's are way over kill and aren't doing you much good because they are not between the rails the weight is concentrated on the shear strength of the screws. I'd add 2x4's between the rails.

 

[likestofish]

Oh the rails are really just to hold the main struts of 4x4 together. ALso the two 4x4 are supposed to be added in the center. there will also be 2 x4 placed in between the railing for more support.

 

[Pharaoh]

Nice start.

 

[buddha1200]

great start just add the cemter braces and 2x4's in between the rails and you should never have any problems

 

[likestofish]

Also do i need cross bracing in between the column, i am going to use metal angle braces for the corners.

 

[johncl]

Lookin' good that stand will support allot more weight than your going to put on it. Great job so far.

 

[john73738]

Agree that stand will hold a ton. Upside is that if you get rid of the tank you will have an engine stand

Looking forward to see how it comes out.


Bear

 

[likestofish]

Well i put in 2x4 for support on the railing i havent put a plywood top yet and will put a another center brace of 4x4s in the middle. Also need to put in the angle braces and cover up with plywood for asthetic and cabinet doors will pant it black make a matching canopy. The best thing about this build is that its costing me nothing excess construction supplies from the deck has supplied my the wood and hardware. The main problem is the lack of a circular saw, i had to use a hand saw for everything.