How can I convert my 75 gallon fresh water aquarium to a salt

Question
Hello I was wondering if I was to change my fresh water aquarium to salt what would be the best way to do so. I would like to be able to have a reef tank but I'm not sure if I need to buy a different tank. I have a standard glass tank with a fluval 405 canister filter. I'm sure I need different lighting but not to sure on filtration. I hope my questions are not to dumb I'm kind of new to the hobby and don't want to get ripped off by my local store. PS any book suggestion would be great. thanks a bunch.

Answer
Hello Tony,  (I changed the question and answer to public so others may read this)

The tanks are basically the same.  when someone calls a tank, 'REEF READY' they are saying the tank is 'drilled' and has an overflow system built in.  

You can basically take an undrilled tank and use everything, except the under=gravel filter, if you truly wanted. but, your questions is stated as WHAT WOULD BE THE BEST WAY TO DO SO...

so, i will answer how i would do it, i.e. the best way???

I would locate an area that i would palce an 'overflow' system, and drill two holes thru the bottom of the tank.  I would then construct, or have someone construct an overflow devider that will sperate the holes from the resto fo the tank.  I would put in a 'stand pipe' drain system, and plumb the system to a sump...  i would put a pump in the sump to pump the water back up to the tank, where it will fill up, till it gets to the top of the 'over flow' devider, then fill that compartment and drain back to the sump...


Yes, I know all that sound confusing as hhell...

basically, all it is is a way to allow water to drain to a 'sump', (seperate tank), that will hold all the heaters, and sensors, thermometer, skimmers, carbon, etc... so that you dont see that stuff in the display area...

getting holes drilled is relatively easy, and costs about $25 per hole here in SO Cal...  If youare handy, you can drill the holes yourself. there are videos on Youtube.com...

If you dont want to drill the tank, you can get / buy a 'HANG ON THE TANK' overflow system. these usually cost around $100 and up...

You can use a cannister if you want... you will end up 'upgrading' it later on... just like the lights...

Using what you have and getting started is a great way to go about it.. this will keep your budget and your wife happy, while letting you learn and establish your routines, and ultimately determining what and wher eyou want to go.. maye corals arent for you, and maybe you just want a fish only tank...  

this is a great way to feel out what you want..

good luck, and no problems ont eh questions.  feel free to ask away..

bill