New build

Rocks reef · Dec 3, 2017

Hello! Long time lurker, reading and gaining knowledge on the forum...

So... my 90 gallon (3x2x2) is QUICKLY outgrowing its current tank. It is an incredibly simple setup running a scrubber and skimmer only with no water changes since being setup a year ago. I will post pics when I figure out how! I was able to pick up a 5x3x20", along with a 75 and 55 for $100. Score for me!

My questions are...
First, I want to reseal it. It was holding water prior to purchase, just want to reseal it. What is the best silicone to use? I know it has to be 100% silicone... but, is there a brand that is stonger than others.

Second, it is NOT drilled, another bonus since RR tanks are terrible when it comes to hole sizes, so... should I make it a peninsula with ghost overflow on side... or "traditional" with overflow on back?

Third, the glass support in the middle had been removed. I want to replace it, but would like to add better support. Ideas?

Rocks reef · Dec 3, 2017

Hmmm...no replies... back to the search again...

jasonrusso · Dec 3, 2017

If you want replies, say that you already did something then you will get multiple replies telling you that you did it wrong.

Aqueon makes a silicone that you put in a caulking gun. That's what I would use.

I don't know what you mean by RR tanks have terrible hole sizes. They are pretty much standard.

Rocks reef · Dec 3, 2017

Wow...ok. Thought this was the best forum with the best advice. I ordered Momentive RTV 108 to reseal with since I have had no constructive replies. Also, I am having a center brace welded and will be powder coated for support. Thank you though for your candid comment. Guess this isn't the best forum after all.

Idoc · Dec 4, 2017

Normally you get many responses to questions! I don't know how yours got overlooked today! Maybe Sunday isn't a good posting day, lol.

As for silicone, I used what is available on Bulk Reef Supply. It worked great... the kind in the caulk-gun tube. They sell some Dap stuff in a squeeze tube... useless for a big job.

As for whether to put the overflow on the side or back, that's more of a personal preference and probably more dependant on where you plan to put the tank in your house.

I'm not sure about the middle glass support. Best to ask that in the DIY forum and post it with a picture! Pictures make it easy easier for people to visualize what you are talking about.

PopaSmurph · Dec 4, 2017

GE silicone 1, not 2, 1 come in clear and black and can be found at any hardware store for 5 dollars a tube if you run out. I have not had any problems with that brand and it's rated for 30 years. As for the support just put a thicker, wider piece of glass for more strength. Personally I would do the "traditional" rear overflow keep things sleek and clean. If you need a diamond hole saws BRS sells them pretty cheap and have every size you will need.

Salty1962 · Dec 4, 2017

Welcome to R2R! If you had the equipment, drilling for a reef tank makes life so much easier than an external overflow. You could use 1/4" poly or plexiglass, clear is best, for a new center bracket. Pics go a long way in us helping you out;)

MSB123 · Dec 4, 2017

Welcome! Normally you will get replies within minutes! I dont quite understand what you mean by the RR hole sizes. Welcome again :)

MSB123 · Dec 4, 2017

Rocks reef said:
Wow...ok. Thought this was the best forum with the best advice. I ordered Momentive RTV 108 to reseal with since I have had no constructive replies. Also, I am having a center brace welded and will be powder coated for support. Thank you though for your candid comment. Guess this isn't the best forum after all.

Ignore him, some people are just having bad days :)

Rocks reef · Dec 4, 2017

MSB123 said:
Welcome! Normally you will get replies within minutes! I dont quite understand what you mean by the RR hole sizes. Welcome again :)

The reef ready tanks have the minimal sized holes. By drilling my own holes for a ghost overflow for maximum flow and performance

Rocks reef · Dec 4, 2017

I do have the diamond bits for drilling tanks.

Rocks reef · Dec 4, 2017

New tank....silicone removed...
Old tank...90 gallon

Rocks reef · Dec 4, 2017

New tank pic looks distorted. It's 5x3x20"

Rocks reef · Dec 4, 2017

Going to run 250w Radiums and Kessil A160s for dawn/dusk...same as my 90 but will run two halides in reef rite reflectors. Not a huge fan of LED yet...don't find the same growth and color. Also, my 90 only uses a skimmer and algae scrubber with no water changes, only top off with mag, alk and calc manually dosed.

Fudsey · Dec 4, 2017

Welcome to R2R ! ! !

Agree with @PopaSmurph, GE silicone 1, used it in my sump. Size for drilling holes depends on the overflow you go with. I used a GlassHoles 1500 on my 90 and the holes are large. But the overflow kit comes with the one you need to do it with.

Rocks reef · Dec 4, 2017

Will Momentive RTV108 work?

Idoc · Dec 4, 2017

Rocks reef said:
Will Momentive RTV108 work?

I've seen some posts on other forums that say RTV108 works great... and they have been using it for years in reef tanks. The GE Silicone 1 is probably less expensive and easier to find though.

Rocks reef · Dec 17, 2017

Ok. Change of plans! Ran across a complete 210 setup for $500.... So, few questions on it. It is drilled for CL and also has 3 bulkheads in upper center for overflow. Should I run CL or cap them off? Second, can I just place a ghost overflow on inside of tank and have PVC from bulkheads go to Sump or do I need an external box as well. I plan on running bean animal overflow.