DIY Front Opening Aquariums
Well after several requests I decided to put this together you guys, I hope you find it of use...and please let me know if you have any other questions...as mentioned before I have used this method on tanks from 5 1/2 gals up to 38 gal....but I'm sure it would work for any. The only draw back to this style is unless you have a heated room, you are limited to only being able to use a UTH for heat....placing basking bulbs on the glass will cause them to crack...so keep this in mind please.
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r...extankdoor.jpg http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r...0Equip/s10.jpg http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r...ip/10galrk.jpg Front opening aquarium DIY: Materials List: Ό Plexi or Lexon (In relative size for whatever tank you decide on) Quality window screen 2.5 Narrow Non-removable Pin Hinges (2) Cam Lock or Wing Handle Cam (1) 3/16 x Ό aluminum Rivits (Fastens Hinges and Electrical Panel) Electrical Panel cutout 1/8x1/2 aluminum rivets (used for fastening plexi to tank rim) Tools: Jig-saw for cutting Plexi/Lexon Rivet Gun Drill with Ό or better bit. Phillips Screwdriver (Cam lock assembly) Adjustable Wrench (Cam lock assembly) Steps: - Cut Plexi/Lexon to fit the inside lip of the size aquarium you intend to use it for. - Trace hole for vent. Use drill for a starter hole for where to start cutting with the jigsaw. Cut vent hole - Cut window screen to size and rivet the electrical cutout over the top of the screen into the plexi/lexon. - Measure 3 off the outer edge of the vent frame and mark. Cut plexi/lexon along this line (This will be the hinge point of the top). - Install hinges Drill holes in location for the hinges and rivet to the plexi/lexon. - Attach hinge point side of the plexi/lexon to the inner frame of the tank rim. I use 4 1/8 rivets, silcone or 2 part epoxy would be another viable option. (I never cared for waiting for things to dry though. - Measure out and cut the hole for the Cam lock, install cam lock. At this point you should be able to put the tank on its side and go. Alterations first time around for me took about an hour, however once you get in a rhythm Ive been able to turn out these tanks in about 15min. Hope this helps, and happy constructing! ~B~ Website for the cam locks if you can't find them at Menard's or Home Depot: http://www.mcmaster.com/ Just type "Cam Lock" into the search they'll pop up. |
Those look fabulous, great job!! I would never be able to complete something like that, but I'm jealous!!
p.s. You might want to post this in the "DIY Projects" section of the "Husbandry and Basic Care" forum. |
Brad, those are beautiful! I've been breeding fish for years, so I have mass amounts of glass aquariums. I was wondering what to do with them...now I know! I think I'll use heat cable vs. UTH, though. I have wire shelves that can hold over a dozen tanks, especially without water! Woot! You rock - Thank you!
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Wow, very well done!
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OMG!! this is EXACTLY what I was I was trying to come up with!! thank you!! you just saved me a ton of trouble!
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Cool, but what's the electrical panel cover for??
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Glad everyone found it helpful!
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FANTASTIC! What is the estimated cost per lid?
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Brad, thanks for posting this. lol to many people asking me about it.
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Estimated cost depends on wether or not you have to buy the Lexon/Plexi Glass...LOL I didn't so it only cost me about $10.00 and some time. Guessing about $20ish if you had to buy everything? Mabey a little less.
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