Console TV to convert to vive

froggsong · #1 (**permalink**) 02-02-2009, 04:50 PM

Check out this sweet find from craigslist:

Here is the link:FREE --- ZENITH COLOR TV ---FREE

This was free, but I can't go pick it up (can't lift it, I'm sure, and I doubt it will fit in my car), so I'm paying the guy delivering it to me for gas. 5 bucks for a great cabinet to turn into a vive... What a steal. Maybe I'll use this for my contest entry instead of the beardie tank... We'll have to see which one is cheaper and gets done in time.

Nicte1983 · #2 (**permalink**) 02-02-2009, 05:03 PM

How creative of you! I think my grandma has one or two of those lying around, possible future project fodder... please post pictures/tips for the conversion when you get going!

Chu'Wuti · #3 (**permalink**) 02-02-2009, 05:09 PM

What a great idea! I wish I had my uncle's old console TV that my middle son gave away (without my permission!!). arrrghgh

froggsong · #4 (**permalink**) 02-02-2009, 05:50 PM

So, do you guys think I should cut out the part with the knobs? That way it looks more even when I install the front pane? I was thinking of using the glass from the TV that is in it, but I don't like the way it is shaped.

I have been looking at broken projection TVs that people are giving away for free too, because they could be converted to a vive as well, but they are very large and I just know my husband would get super pissed if I brought one home, lol...

I guess the guy didn't feel like measuring it for me, so I don't know the dimensions yet. I think I am going to get creative with the back and the way that it opens for access. I might make the back completely removable for easy maintenance (I like to do frequent replants as I get tired of looking at it the way it is, lol). Maybe have the foam BG sprayed onto a piece of wood that I can screw/unscrew from the back of the case so that the foam fits into the opening but the wood overlaps the back. Sort of like a drain plug... Wow, this one is going to be so much fun!!!!!

Should I put all of the frogs inside, or should I just put my golden in there? I'm thinking of just putting the golden in there and maybe getting her a friend or two, depending on the dimensions. I could get a trio of GTFs to add to the current frog tank if I took her out (well, I could put them in there anyway, lol, I've had three little GTF-like frogs with her before).

lowcountryfire · #5 (**permalink**) 02-02-2009, 06:01 PM

I need to move to your town... I am on craigslist all the time and no luck with anything good...... But good luck with it!
Make sure you do a build log for us

froggsong · #6 (**permalink**) 02-02-2009, 06:08 PM

I haven't decided if I am going to use this for a contest entry yet... If so, I plan on making one of the rules that it has to be a new build, so I won't be able to post a log in that case until it's time to post for the contest. If I use the beardie tank for the contest, then I will be sure to post a log. Either way, I will definitely be preparing one.

I was taking a look at craigslist in Charleston earlier when I was on the phone with my stepdad, and you're right, there isn't much going on there. Just keep looking! Also, post an ad in the wanted section and sign up for freecycle. It's a great way to get things that people don't want anymore, but might not think to list. Good luck!

harrywitmore · #7 (**permalink**) 02-02-2009, 06:30 PM

I would cut out the control area on the right side. I think it would look more uniform. That's going to be nice!

froggsong · #8 (**permalink**) 02-02-2009, 06:33 PM

OMG... I just came across this for free as well:

Here's the wording of the ad:
Kitchen cabinets free
1- 15x36
1- 18x36
1- 30x48
1- 15x30
corner 24x24x30
base 18x34x24

I could sooooo use the cabinets. For storage (none in this piece of crap house we are renting) AND converting to vives over time. I sent the poster a message basically begging them to deliver them to me, lol.

Chu'Wuti · #9 (**permalink**) 02-02-2009, 06:38 PM

Oh, wow. I have to get on Craig's list right away! I haven't checked it in ages! What am I missing? ULP.

HewesHort · #10 (**permalink**) 02-02-2009, 06:40 PM

That's going to be awesome! i would remove the knob panel. i have an old (like 1950's) stereo cabinet made of solid oak that i gutted to make a tank out of. that was two years ago! after i finish my current projects, im going to start on that. for access, how difficult would it be for you to construct a wood frame door with a glass panel, and stain it the same color as the rest?