Any interest in plans to build stands/hoods?

[countertopguy]

There seems to always be somebody looking for plans or advice on how to construct a stand or a hood. I am toying with the idea of creating a set of plans that the average person could use to build a stand.

Would there be any interest in this?

I am thinking of a drawing along with a cut sheet.

It would involve a bit of time to but together but I would be willing if the interest level is there.

Let me know.

Steve

[razzmatazz]

you mean you would show this dummy how to build a stand and hood. that's awsume.

[speedsport]

That would be cool

[areze]

there is a lack of quality plans for a stand, but how many stands do you make, there are so many different tank dimensions with their own size requirements.

[countertopguy]

areze- I agree... there are alot of variables to consider but I was thinking that I could put together something that could be re-sized to fit many different sized tanks. Obviously it would not suit all needs but it could be a good start.
Good point though!

[simion3]

I think that would be a very good idea.

[spf9992001]

I'd be interested.

[bigdee65]

I think it would be a great idea. There seems to be a new thread started daily on how to build a stand. I would think the 75 or 90 gallon tanks are the most popular so maybe do a walk through for those?

[andyjd]

yes yes and yes

[gioNVA]

yes ...I'd be interested.

[sandiegan]

that'd be great

[glenndon]

After seeing your stand on your thread, I think the package you are thinking about would definately be put to good use! Do it!

Glenn

[danferd2002]

yes im interested

[sarduci]

Go for it! I'm working on plans for my 90g canopy as we speak.... it's designed to be basic and all the work done with the minimum amount of tools possible.

[Malolo]

I have been looking for diy stand plans. The ones out there are pretty generic stuff. Count me in!

[GARFVolunteer]

Here is a link to a stand calculator I am working on: http://www.idahoreefs.org/tank/BuildStand.asp
It is for tanks 10 to 125 gallons and is similar to stands found in your LFS. Enter the size of your tank, the offsets, the height and the number of doors. There is no limit to the stand height so some common sense is required.

We are also working on a calculator for larger tanks that have materials lists for both the stand and a facade to dress it up. Here is the start of it: http://www.idahoreefs.org/tank/BuildLargeStand.asp
I am currently working on the diagrams, assembly instructions and verifying materials lists.

There is a plan in the works to make a calculator for both high and low profile canopies...

Thanks,

Scott

[alten78]

looking for decent 75 plans, very interested, could make it a sticky thread

[catmanat]

hey i used the idaho link above for a 90, looks kind of weak struture wise. hate for all that $$ to go down the drain, or the floor. any other ideas?

[bcoons]

I'm interested. I'm planning a 90.

[GARFVolunteer]

Originally posted by catmanat
hey i used the idaho link above for a 90, looks kind of weak struture wise. hate for all that $$ to go down the drain, or the floor. any other ideas?

If you were to compare it to the stands found in LFS, you will find they are built basically the same. The sheer strength of wood is amazing...

However if you want to wait a couple of weeks the large stand calculator will be ready.

Thanks,

Scott

[dannieboiz]

One thing I find about a lot of the DIY stand plans I've been running into is it involves in massive 2x2 and what not which exposes and takes up space in the sump. For instance the stand I purchase appears to be put together using just plywood on all 4 corners giving me the exact measurement as above. I don't know if that make any sense. Bad day today just blabbering off.

[GARFVolunteer]

Originally posted by dannieboiz
One thing I find about a lot of the DIY stand plans I've been running into is it involves in massive 2x2 and what not which exposes and takes up space in the sump. For instance the stand I purchase appears to be put together using just plywood on all 4 corners giving me the exact measurement as above. I don't know if that make any sense. Bad day today just blabbering off.

That is why I made the calculator. When I made my first stand, I could park a Mac truck on it and it would hold up fine but there was very little room in side like I wanted...

Since then I have made quite a few stands using different methods. Some I liked and some I didn't.

Thanks,

Scott

[countertopguy]

Hey Guys-

Thanks for the comments. I think I'll work on some plans for a 90 first. I believe I'll make a "simple" version and a more advanced version. Stay tuned (it might take a while )

GARFVolunteer- I have looked at your site and I appreciate the work that must have gone into it.

My hope is to create a plan for a stand that has some furniture elements. (trim, moldings, etc)

I think there is a lack of quality plans for reasons that are obvious. There are way too many variables and it is difficult to have a "one solution fits" plan.

I think your site is a great resource and I hope I can make something as useful.

Steve

[palawan]

I am very interested. I was doing a search on DIY stands and canopies but none were good. I need a stand for a 135 with good access to front and maybe sides, with a metal halide capable canopy. Count my vote.

[GARFVolunteer]

Originally posted by countertopguy
My hope is to create a plan for a stand that has some furniture elements. (trim, moldings, etc)

I think there is a lack of quality plans for reasons that are obvious. There are way too many variables and it is difficult to have a "one solution fits" plan.

I think your site is a great resource and I hope I can make something as useful.

Thanks Steve,

I plans on updating the calculator by adding new features such as crown molding and classier doors. I have made a lot doors (flat panel and raised panel) and would like to add them to the calculator. I created a cabinet making program years ago for my brother-in-law and will be transferring the door portion of the code to the calculators sometime in the near future.

The thing I love about all this is I get to combine 3 of my hobbies (reefs, woodworking and programing) and entertain myself for hours. Now I just need to figure out how to white water kayak in the tank and I would be set...

Thanks,

Scott