75G,30G Sump/Refuge, Build

[brandonb]

Setting up a 75G main tank with a 30G Sump, maybe turning into a refugium. I am currently building the stand for the tank since the one at the LFS is $200 and cheaply made. I got plans for the cabinet from here, 75 Gallon Aquarium Stand

I will post pictures of the cabinet in its building process and where it is currently, along with the tank and any prospective pieces.

I have been looking at 48" T5HO NOVA Extreme lights, I believe it is 4X54W which seems to be good enough for what I want to keep; soft corals to start off.

For equipment so far I have:
-75Gallon
-30Gallon
-10Gallon-could use for something?
-2 Koralia powerheads, 600GPH, and 400GPH
-MagDrive5 pump for the return
-Coralife 65 skimmer, I think I may need a skimmer with more capacity but it is currently on a 30gallon I have setup and I dont have a lot of cash to replace.

I plan on having about 90-100lbs of live rock and I have already bought 90lbs if aragonite sand, do I want more?

I have also been thinking about drilling the main tank, I cannot drill the bottom because it is tempered but the back would be ok. How much better is drilling vs and overflow system?

Any input is great!

[scubadude]

Setting up a 75G ....
I have also been thinking about drilling the main tank, I cannot drill the bottom because it is tempered but the back would be ok. How much better is drilling vs and overflow system?

Any input is great!

Drilling vs o-flow....definately go with drilled if at all possible. I would look into a better skimmer like a bakpak or something similar. I think your off to a good start though. The amnt of LR sounds good. Hook us up with some pics when you get a chance. And the link for the stand looks good...very sturdy.

Welcome to Reefland

[dhondtster]

IM just starting a 75 with a sump dont know what size yet, but I have read alot of good reviews on the octopus 150 skimmer, keep me upto date on your progress or Ideas since were doing about the same, right know Im trying to figure out how to make a sump/refuge out of a 20l tank. will post my pics soon. just an empty tank built into the wall. lol

[dhondtster]

i just noticed that u posted a while ago lol im an idiot