Canopy Lift

[reedman]

OK folks....wanted to get some thoughts on an idea I have.

I want to have my canopy life clear of the tank (not hinged) so that I can get into the tank from all sides. I have seen what DonW did with the actuator, but I really don't want to add that kind of complexity. So I was thinking, why not use the same principle as double hung windows to counterbalance the weight of the canopy and make it easy to lift? I've seen the spring based systems that the newer windows use and the older pulley based systems. Either would seem to work (though the pulley might require a little more creativity to keep all the meachanisms hidden from sight. I would use some high quality drawer slides as verticle guides to keep the canopy tracking up and down properly.

Thoughts? Am I nuts?

Thanks,
-Reed

 

[DonW]

Stop being cheap and just buy an actuator. By the time you figure out how to lift and giude it the actuator is just the final step anyways.

Don

 

[JPG@CFI]

Reed,

Clear Fabrications Inc. is installing these systems locally, so if you would like a quote, either PM me, or call.

Until then,
Jason Gregory

 

[reedman]

Thanks Don & Jason,

I appreciate the info, though I am not in a position to just throw money at someone to do this and I like to do these things myself....so I will continue to research on my own.

Thanks

 

[BobinCovington]

Jason, are you installing actuators on canopies?

 

[JPG@CFI]

Bob,

Yes we are! We have just finished with Joe's 600gal. on Whidby Island, and are gearing up for Eric's 700gal. They both were in need of a helping hand with their canopy's. Just picked up an SA TRP Operator today and bead blasted it. Came out sweet. Talk to you later, Jason

 

[ziggy]

At marinedepot.com & indoor reef in tacoma they have spring loaded pulley systems that I think can lift 40LBS. each. Hope this is a help.
Chad #2
http://www.marinedepot.com/ps_ViewI...ng_Options_Fixtures_Hanging_Kits~vendor~.html

 

[JPG@CFI]

Ziggy,

Thoes are great for small light fixtures.. ..

Whole canopy lifts are a different animal. Ask Matt with the Elos system, he did a top shelf fab job with his. He has the right mind to pull these thingss off the first time.

Jason