Removable Front Stand Hardware Options

[cdness]

Finally in the last stages of my new tank built "concept" stage and need to ask for some recommendations...

The stand will be a basic wood base per the normal 2x4 and 2x6 structure. The tank is a standard reef ready 150g 4 foot tank. I'm guessing the 2x6 top frame and 2x4 for the rest will be more than enough. But this isnt the part I have the questions about...

I have always done the regular "doors" stand with hinges and hardware that eventually rust solid and look like crap. It also hinders access to the sump a bit so I want to make the front panel of the stand 100% removable.

If you have seen cool examples of this link them here...

If you have done this yourself and can help me pick out mounting options, let me know. I am thinking a hook or slot in the top and clip style mounts in the bottom.

Excited to start the build thread soon and get this tank up and running!

 

[Flippers4pups]

Bump

 

[Reef-junky]

They make a hinge for large pictures. That’s what I used on my 75gal stand. The whole front comes off.

 

[JoshH]

Magnets or french cleats come to mind as the go to ways of mounting removable panels. French cleats are a 0 metal option which is awesome and they are REALLY easy to do.

 

[Michael Lane]

I used a few alignment blocks and strong Velcro. It's nothing elaborate, but it works well and has been holding strong for years. I can post a picture this evening if you are interested.

 

[ajhudson15]

look up fish tank facades on google. we are planning to do this with our 220 gal stand as well.

 

[Billdogg]

Magnets or french cleats come to mind as the go to ways of mounting removable panels. French cleats are a 0 metal option which is awesome and they are REALLY easy to do.

^^^This^^^

In fact, I would have even worded it the same.

I have used modified french cleats and magnets together with great success on a couple stands over the years. What I did was use stop blocks on the doors that rest on the bottom of the opening and then countersunk magnets in the stands with large flat washers countersunk into the doors at the top. Very secure but super easy to remove.

take a look at www.kjmagnetics.com for the rare earth magnets.

hth

 

[dantimdad]

I used magnets with french cleats on mine. The cleats keep it from sagging down and align it properly. The magnets keep the doors tight to the stand. Works perfectly.