Next steps, new setup

[wink1906]

Ive got a 55 tall (48"x12"x24") and a DIY dual 18 gallon Rubbermaid sump, estimating total system capacity around 70 -75 gallons. Return pump is my original Rio 1700 return pump - this pump will be replaced with a beefier unit as it will only handle about 5x the total volume per hour. Skimmer is an AquaC EV120.

Once I complete my 2 week test to make sure the puppies wont leak I'm planning on filling with water from the RO unit and starting it up with live rock and a combo of crushed coral/live sand.

Questions (before I got to the LFS):
1 - how much live rock should I begin with - after reading the beginners guides it says I should cycle with uncured LR - can someone verify this wont be too stinky or require constant water changes?
2 - I've got all the patience in the world so I'm in no rush to add fish, but will I hurt anything by not adding fish shortly after the tank cycles? Should I be adding other creatures instead of fish first?
3 - Lights are 2x40 48" flourescents. Will this be OK to maintain the live rock until I upgrade to MH in October(after the wedding!)?

Thanks for your help.

 

[drummereef]

1. I would do at least 1lb/gallon. If you can do a little more it won't hurt.

2. I would add a cleanup crew first. I like Astrea and turbos for the glass and nassarius snails for the substrate. Then after things are for sure stabilized you can start stocking.

3. The lights are fine for now. Once you get the MH going you can add corals and the like. Just make sure to research before buying.