LR curing process

[fordman460]

So I am curing 45lbs of LR. Just did a 100% (prob more like 98 or 99%) water change last night. My test results are as follows:
PH:8.0
Nitrite: 2.0
Nitrate: 160
Ammonia: .25
Temp: 80
Sp Gravity: 1.025-1.026

My question is this, Does this seem like a normal curing process so far? Its been curing for 4 or 5 days. Probably a dumb newbie question but I'm getting antsy wanting to put it in the tank and Im trying to learn some patience so as not to screw everything up. Not to mention the green slime is out of control. But that is another thread in and of itself.Thank you.

[Reefland]

There is no need to change that much water why the rock is curing. It takes time for everything to die off and the bacteria colony's to repopulate and control the polutants. The test results are not surprising but the rock will require more time. I would hold off doing water changes for a few days and see what kind of results you get then. It's hard to tell where you are at in the process due to the large water change you just did.

[fordman460]

There is no need to change that much water why the rock is curing. It takes time for everything to die off and the bacteria colony's to repopulate and control the polutants. The test results are not surprising but the rock will require more time. I would hold off doing water changes for a few days and see what kind of results you get then. It's hard to tell where you are at in the process due to the large water change you just did.

Iappreciate your input. In all actuality I was just following the instructions that were enclosed with the rock. It says twice weekly 100% water changes. So would water changes based on water quality be a better method?? Thank you.

[Reefland]

Well the water changes aren't a bad thing but it is hard to tell what is really going on unless you test before the change. Do you have a skimmer running on the rock? Wait a few days and do another set of tests and lets see where your at.

[fordman460]

No, no skimmer on the rock just an air pump and a powerhead. I'll test again maybe thursday and see whats up. I really appreciate all your help.

[fordman460]

Update for operation Cure the Rock day 7......
PH 7.8
Nitrate 80 ppm
Ammonia 0 ppm
Nitrite 2.0 ppm
SG 1.027
Temp 80

Seems to be cycling. Although I know I need a water change, I'll do that in about a half hour from now. Everything seem OK to you all? I would prob be better off if I had more water in here. Thank you

[BubbaWPB]

Looks like you're making progress since the ammonia is down to 0.

Are you aerating your tank? If you don't have a protein skimmer, I'd suggest getting one... it helps take out the waste products of the curing and helps to aerate your water. You're pH has fallen some... it is at the lowest level of safe... aerating the water can help to blow off carbon dioxide and keep the pH up. Removing wastes with a skimmer can help stabilize your pH too, since many waste products (other than ammonia) are acidic.

[fordman460]

I am aerating the tank, I have a regular air pump going 24/7 and a powerhead for circulation and aeration. I'd like to stay away from buying another skimmer if possible. (the wife would be less than impressed ;) ) But I agree it does seem to be making progress Ijust wish it would hurry up I'm getting anxious to get the rock in so I can buy some more good stuff. Thanks for the help.