Will this stand idea work?

[KenT]

I'm looking to do an open stand. The tank will be 84x30x30. I am thinking of making the legs out of 6x6, 3 across the front and 3 across the back. Then frame around the top outer side of the legs with 2x8, and also frame the inside. The 6x6s will be notched outside and inside. Run 2x8 joists front to back every 12". Cover top with 2 sheets 3/4" plywood. Looking to make the stand 33"+. Will this hold or fall over?

Thanks

 

[gotfin]

sounds like a good design. i would be a little concerned about having some type of shear support, ie. plywood or cross bracing...

 

[KenT]

It will be through bolted together. Also, it will be going on a wood floor that has a double plywood subfloor with 2x12 doubled up joists and an addition beam.

Thanks

 

[gotfin]

that should be more than sufficient. living in CA we worry about earthquakes.

 

[adammreef]

When you say 6x6 are you talking about just getting a 6x6 post or are you going to make one up out of 2x4 or 2x6?

Using a 6x6 post is not nearly as strong as making a corner out of 2x4 or even 2x6. Plus a 6x6 will tend to twist and bow more under pressure compared to making up your own post or making up a corner.

For the frame 2x8 would be ok. I would probably double the frame up also.

 

[nylogger]

I would agree with adammreef, its much stronger to laminate 3- 2x6's than to use a solid 6x6. I use that design for pole barns and find it much easier.