I think I am going to go ahead with it. I think I will do a 55g, with close loop. Over the intakes I am going to put some strainers and on the outlets some loc line flare nozzles. As far as of the over flow. I think I am going to skip it and drill two 1.5" holes and put strainers over them as well and use that as my overflow. I have a similiar setup on my tank right now. I have a ton more research to do but so far this is my plan.
As far as the cover, I was thinking of two different options:
1. Something similiar to those chickenwire reptile tank covers - modified with a latching mechanism.
2. A completely enclosed canopy, with 2 fans (openings covered with screen material. I will drill holes for the wires (lights and fans), then calk the holes. The canopy will have latches on the outside.
That is all for now. Livestock will most likely be a Bimac. I plan to have this started by late may.