Found this 120Gal tank... Anyone got issues with it that I should focus on?

[returnedreefer]

Looking to get a new tank and found this 120Gal tank. A lady is just looking to get rid of it so I was curious if anyone with a "keen" eye sees any issues with it or if there are any specific questions I should be asking?
Thanks in Advance!

 

[kiefers]

Nice tank!
The things I would be looking for are........
1) scratches or cracks in the glass or plastic
2) fill it up and see if there are any leaks in the seals or glass itself.
3) look at the pvc for any cracks or breakage in it or the seals

 

[mr. limpid]

1) does it leak ( may want to see it filled to make sure)
2) Are the seal cracked or dried out
3) was there any chemicals placed in tank (copper, etc.)
4) look for scratches or chips
5) check all bulk heads cracked or dried out (my just want to replace them for peace of mind)
6) just ask why the two top bulk heads are gone

 

[returnedreefer]

Thanks for the info... I have actually been looking for a ~75 gal tank but ran across this one for a good deal. Really my only hesitation is cost of system up keep... Any idea on the cost difference in maintaining a 75 vs something in the 120 range?
Thanks Again!

 

[sweatervest13]

Quote:
Originally Posted by ReturnedReefer http:///t/392585/found-this-120gal-tank-anyone-got-issues-with-it-that-i-should-focus-on#post_3487151
Thanks for the info... I have actually been looking for a ~75 gal tank but ran across this one for a good deal. Really my only hesitation is cost of system up keep... Any idea on the cost difference in maintaining a 75 vs something in the 120 range?
Thanks Again!
There is some difference in cost of maintaining a 120 vs a 75g. But I don't think it would be too much considering that you are getting almost twice the volume. A bit more salt and RO/DI to fill it at first. And same thing when you do WC's. The equipment list will have to be upgraded, a bigger skimmer, more powerheads, things like that. I say go for the bigger tank.

 

[mr. limpid]

I personal would go with as large of a tank that you can afford, because you will find down the line you'll wish you went bigger, no matter what size you have. It is just like purchasing a computer buy the best you can afford at the time. Cost is in the original purchase of equipment bigger tank needs bigger equipment. As for up keep, the cost of additional salt mix for larger water changes. It also depends on type of tank you want reef of fish only. Reef tanks are way more expensive to maintain.

 

[kiefers]

I agree with the larger, however, with the larger, as stated, more cost and possible clean up. With that said, you can have more fish or other fish that do require more swimming space. (not to mention the lights)
On another note, with the smaller, less expensive to run, not by much tho, and clean up is quicker and less combersome. JMO
It all depends on what you want and what type of system you want to have.

 

[returnedreefer]

Thanks for all the great information. The biggest I have a had to date was a 55gal Reef so a 120gal is a big step. I am just trying to keep in perspective the future costs and budget accordingly. In reality, even if I went with a 55, I may look to use equipment which gave me the ability to go larger.. So it is probably a wash. Now its jsut convincing my wife how beautiful it will be in the Living Room! HaHa.
Now the dilemma goes to building a stand for this monster.... Since it will be decoration in the Living Room, I will have to do a little better then a 2x4 structure. Is there any good references for stand builds?
Thanks Again!

 

[mr. limpid]

Quote:
Originally Posted by ReturnedReefer http:///t/392585/found-this-120gal-tank-anyone-got-issues-with-it-that-i-should-focus-on#post_3487177
Thanks for all the great information. The biggest I have a had to date was a 55gal Reef so a 120gal is a big step. I am just trying to keep in perspective the future costs and budget accordingly. In reality, even if I went with a 55, I may look to use equipment which gave me the ability to go larger.. So it is probably a wash. Now its jsut convincing my wife how beautiful it will be in the Living Room! HaHa.
Now the dilemma goes to building a stand for this monster.... Since it will be decoration in the Living Room, I will have to do a little better then a 2x4 structure. Is there any good references for stand builds?
Thanks Again!
Tell here it is living art. The up keep of my 135gal FOWLR is about $800 a year, with estimated cost of replacing pumps, heaters and etc. As for DIY stands there are many builds out there just do a search for them and a lot of reading.