Building a stand/ Skinning a stand

[phenom5]

I am building a stand for a DSA 155g. I think I am good as far as the 2x4 frame goes, but I am looking at the logistics of skinning it. The devil is in the details as it were.

I am considering skinning it in 1/2" ply of some sort (looking at options at some lumber yards), and I am wondering if I should put ply on the top, or just have the tank sit on the 2x4 frame? Assuming I can get a nice level top to the frame of course.

Any suggestions on needed tools/ equipment to make the build go smooth?
I have a pretty good assortment. I am going to pick up a pocket jig. Wasn't sure if there were any must have router bits to help things out.

 

[reefwiser]

Use French cleats to attach the front and sides so you can take the skin off to work on sump.

 

[drew2007]

My stand is 2x4 frame. 3/4" ply top, bottom and inside side panels. Outside is skinned with 1/4" birch ply. I used 3" exterior deck screws. Under tank will be 1/2" insulation foam(full rimless). Luckily for me my friend had everything needed to build. Table saw, circular saw, chop box, power plane, good screw gun, clamps.

 

[marino420td]

Just make large door openings in front and on the ends so you have plenty of access to what is inside. The pocket jig is your friend! I used it extensively on my build.

I would use a plywood top just to have a cleaner look.

My entire stand construction is documented with photos in this thread

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=787189

 

[phenom5]

Use French cleats to attach the front and sides so you can take the skin off to work on sump.

Interesting. Is you entire front removable/ Or just the doors?

Just make large door openings in front and on the ends so you have plenty of access to what is inside. The pocket jig is your friend! I used it extensively on my build.

I would use a plywood top just to have a cleaner look.

My entire stand construction is documented with photos in this thread

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=787189

Awesome looking build Marino.
I will have to read through it. I won't have access to the ends, but I definitely want to make sure I have plenty of access to the sump.

 

[Frostyfish]

Go to harbor freight and get long clamps. Very very useful

 

[reefwiser]

Here is one version using a french cleat and covering the stand.
http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2370563

 

[phenom5]

Go to harbor freight and get long clamps. Very very useful

I have a good assortments of clamps, but I have some long ones on my list of things to pick up for the build. :thumbsup: