Hinge for canopy door

[der_wille_zur_macht]

I've always preferred canopies where the doors simply lift off instead of hinging. You can get clear access and the mechanisms can be simple and cheap versus hinges and struts.

Another thought. I see mention in this thread and many others where people are building a frame from 1x lumber and then skiing with 3/4 ply. You really don't need both. If there will be a frame, skin it with something lightweight - the frame will give the structure integrity. If you want to use 3/4 ply, ditch the frame. 3/4 ply is incredibly strong and doesn't need a support if your box is well designed. Doing both a frame and thick ply adds expense and weight and takes up more room.

 

[cincyjim]

I haven't had any issues with mine. In my case though the stand is three feet tall and the tank is two feet tall for a total of five feet in height. I'm only 5'5" so I have to use a tall step ladder to get into the tank when I need to and the canopy and lid have never been in my way. My canopy lid raises straight up but doesn't rest on the canopy itself. I used gate latches to hold the canopy lid up. Similar to what GimpyFin used on his.

 

[cincyjim]

This is the thread that shows how GimpyFin holds his canopy lid open. I used the same gate latches but mine are mounted on top of the canopy and canopy lid. I hope this helps some.

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2637591

 

[davocean]

I've always preferred canopies where the doors simply lift off instead of hinging. You can get clear access and the mechanisms can be simple and cheap versus hinges and struts.

Or, just do quick clip pop off hinges, that's what's on the one of mine posted, giving a 3rd option, flick of the metal tab and they pop off, and they easily snap back secured in place.

They are soft close as well, and they are not expensive.