Live rock move question

[spoonman]

I am going to be switching out tanks this weekend. I have a 75 that is scratched up and I am replacing the tank only. The one that I bought is exactly the same as the one I am replacing. I need to take all of the rock, coral and fish out and put in buckets. Then I need to move the tank, hook up the sump, get everything back in and get it running. My question is "can I take the rock out of the tank and put it in buckets of new saltwater instead of water from the tank?" I know that I should take the fish and corals out and put them in water from the tank, but wouldnt the live rock be ok in new water? I dont think I can get enough out of the tank to keep the fish, corals and live rock in water. With the corals and fish, I will then acclimate to the tank with all new saltwater. Please give opinions, I will be doing the move this weekend. Thanks as always for your help! Here is a video just to let you know what I'm working with.

75 gallon reef 24 Jun 12 - YouTube

 

[Sniperhank]

I'd use clean water for all of it. Worst that will happen is that you will be rinsing your rocks off even more before being placed into the new tank.

 

[spoonman]

Are you saying to move the rock, fish and corals out of the tank and into buckets of new saltwater? I would have to acclimate them to it, right?

 

[Sniperhank]

Not if you have it mixed up to be the same salinity as the tank. Get out that refractometer! Lol.

 

[crister13]

I would put the fish into old water and then drip them to the new. Same with corals. For rock, just plop it in new water.

 

[spoonman]

I would put the fish into old water and then drip them to the new. Same with corals. For rock, just plop it in new water.

That was gonna be my plan. Have about 80 gallons of salt ready to go. Should be about right I think. Maybe make 20 more.

 

[Newfiereefer]

I would put the fish into old water and then drip them to the new. Same with corals. For rock, just plop it in new water.

+1 this would be best IMO since it would reduce shock as much as posable

 

[spoonman]

Here is the tank after the move.

 

[Flreefer]

Looks great spoon! Lots of nooks and crannies.
Nice work!

 

[crister13]

That's awesome.

 

[spoonman]

Thanks guys! This is my pride and joy!