I decided to share this build with the good folks here at RC. This build took nearly two months just working a few hours on the weekends. Hopefully someone will find this useful in the future.
Started with a stand frame made of 2x4s.
Once the stand was framed I tested it by filling with water. I only waited several hours, but also took a few pix and shared them here to get opinions on the strength.
Next we skinned the stand and cut out the access panels.
I copied another users canopy frame. His build can be found here:
http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/sh...hlight=flipper
Next a cross brace was added. This would hold a new set of lights (Viparspectra LED).
Skinned the canopy next and cut out more access panels. Decided to add them on the side as well.
Made the doors from plywood and trimmed the edges for a finished look.
I did make the stand doors from the same thin plywood and ended up having to remake them due to bowing. Remade with 3/4" plywood and trimmed the same.
Added some trim and molding on the bottom and top of the stand as well as to the top of the canopy.
