So here is my first ever DIY stand!!

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo
Thanks everyone.....I used untreated 4x4 posts. Not only will the stand hold 40,000 lbs but with such large flat surfaces to work with the contruction was pretty easy. The 8 inch deck screws cost a pretty penny but they are strong enough for anything! i just found simple plans to build a canopy since my tank is custom and cannot fit a glass lid....heres a pic....still about a month from up and running!

IMG_4350.jpg

IMG_4352.jpg
 
sponger_2;4672488;4672488 said:
arent the 4x4's gonna warp over time? thats why everyone always uses double 2x4's?
Click to expand...
I dont know about that......The same posts are used to hold up every deck in the NE! If they can support that load in weather that swings massively in temp and humidity I believe it will outlast any 2x4 build. The length of the longest cut is 48". The support legs are 20". Not much room for warpage compared to the more common use of the posts......to hold up a 50,000 lb deck!
 
Getting closer every day! The tank has two coats on it....nice and black. One more should do it. The Canopy is pretty much built. I have two coats of white glossy enamel on the inside. Needs to be painted. I will add pnuematic closers later on as I am trying to channel funds into lights, a heater, and a glass lid. The lids will sit nearly two inches above the water line.....the center brace on the tank is a pain!
The stand is mostly painted. Since the stand is so monolithic I treated the 4x4 with a srone like finish. Still needs some touching up. It looks better now actually after putting the trim over the side edge. Looking for bulkheads to seal up the 1 3/4" holes in the bottom.....VERY CLOSE.

I wish there was someone strong enough to help me move this stuff around!! Totally a solo project until it comes to move it all! Thanks for all the support MFK!!!!!

IMG_4377.jpg

IMG_4379.jpg

IMG_4378.jpg

IMG_4380.jpg

IMG_4382.jpg
 
Cookie*420;4680869;4680869 said:
Looking really good, for a chef. That is coming from a carpenter, heheh. I am glad you cannot taste my food tho, you would not be able to return the compliment.
Click to expand...
I am honored! Thanks! The finish really looks like granite! The lights will cost more than any other part of the build but I am close.
 
The frame was about 125.00 The biggest expense was the bolts....#40.00 and the the nice furniture grade ply I used. Because the stand is 49" I needed more boards....I used the scap to build the canopy. Paint was 32. for all....tank, stand and canopy. I figure the entire setup including lights, heater, lids, fliltration, sand, driftwood, and of course the tank.....cost about 650.00 Completing the LED light system will add another 200.00 but the above figure includes a Marinland Doublebright 48" fixture and 3x True Lumen moonlights. I will add 2x Ecoxotic Panorama Modules to complete....they rock! ( I have on loan to make sure it fit my canopy) I will add at least one to supplement. The tank will be running in two weeks......its a tank transfer so its more complicated than a setup.....

IMG_4393.jpg

IMG_4414.jpg
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
MonsterFishKeepers.com
Top Bottom