The Resurrection - IM 40 Long Build

[Pseudoskill]

I had my IM 40L set up, cycled, and was running for about 4 months. I was constantly having issues I've never experienced in other tanks (this being my 5th). I constantly had zero nutrients despite having 5 fish and feeding every day. The sand and rock all looked essentially brand new. All fish were happy and ammonia would test zero (using API and RedSea tests). Any coral I put in would basically instantly melt.

I also believe I had some flow issues. I absolutely loved my aquascape, but the 24" XXL Caribsea arch just prevented water from moving, it just seemed too big.

So...I decided to do something that may have been a "dumb" move, but I decided on completely restarting my tank.

 

[Pseudoskill]

I had 3 people help me, I completely drained all water and emptied as much sand as I could. Took the tank (VERY carefully) down stairs and to a local carwash. I used a new sponge and scrubbed the inside down and sprayed everything off.

I believe that this may have been sort of an extreme measure, but I recently bought some new equipment I've really wanted and decided to just be content and start over. The tank wasn't housing corals anyway and any fix would likely take quite some time so I figured re-cycling wouldn't bother me, time wise.

 

[Pseudoskill]

I bought a new A3 Apex (delivered tomorrow) a new IM Helios dual element heater, and about 40 lbs of Marcorock in order to start the tank over. I used ~ 30 lbs of Caribsea Fiji pink sand.

 

[reacclimating 2 the hobby]

Should put this in the build threads! Following along.

 

[Pseudoskill]

Should put this in the build threads! Following along.

That...probably would have been ideal wasn't aware I put it in general discussion. Is there a way to move a thread? If not I'll just create a new one.

 

[JoJosReef]

Can't wait to see how it goes fellow IM 40L'er!

I'm still working on my aquascape!

 

[Pseudoskill]

Can't wait to see how it goes fellow IM 40L'er!

I'm still working on my aquascape!

I recreated this thread in the 'AIO Build' forum, which I should have done originally. Just posted some pics of my scape for the time being, definitely post yours! Creating the aquascape is hands down the best part. I get a hammer and chisel and spend hours doing it,my GF is always thrilled when we have rock debris all over