Adding a viewing pane to stock tank

[Reefing102]

Hey guys,

So in my bid to look into a FOWLR, I can’t really afford a good sized aquarium (at least not at LFS prices) and I think a plywood tank is outside my realm of capabilities. So I’m thinking of getting a Stock Tank but would like a viewing pane. Obviously none come with that built in (that I’ve found), so I’m wondering is it possible to add one? If so, would it be as simple as cutting, adding the right size glass/acrylic panel and ensuring it’s secured and sealed on both sides or am I likely completely missing whole steps and this won’t work due to the flexibility of the stock tank and risk of blow out.

 

[blaxsun]

It depends on the tank material, volume, dimensions and size and specifications of the viewing panel. And there are definitely some more steps and calculations involved. None of which I can advise on and none of which anyone else can advise on without some more specifics and details.

 

[Reefing102]

So I’m looking at a 300 gallon - https://www.ruralking.com/catalog/product/view/id/36878

Due to design, likely going to do a viewing pane either on the curved end in the second layer or just keeping it easy in the Rubbermaid area

 

[JNalley]

Hey guys,

So in my bid to look into a FOWLR, I can’t really afford a good sized aquarium (at least not at LFS prices) and I think a plywood tank is outside my realm of capabilities. So I’m thinking of getting a Stock Tank but would like a viewing pane. Obviously none come with that built in (that I’ve found), so I’m wondering is it possible to add one? If so, would it be as simple as cutting, adding the right size glass/acrylic panel and ensuring it’s secured and sealed on both sides or am I likely completely missing whole steps and this won’t work due to the flexibility of the stock tank and risk of blow out.

Petco is having a decent sale on Aqueon at the moment, you'd have to drill it yourself and add an overflow, but you can pick up a 75-gallon tank right now for 124.99, a 40 breeder for 54.99, and an overflow for around $160, and a baffle kit for the 40 breeder for another $130. That's $470 for a 75-gallon "reef ready" aquarium... Which is a steal. If course you could also start with a 40 breeder, and get a 20 long for $24.99 and the baffle kit for it for $100, which is a 40-gallon "reef ready" for $340. There is also an AIO kit for the 40 breeder that is $130 if you don't want to drill or have a sump which would be $185 for a decent starter tank.

 

[ZoWhat]

Craigslist

You can get a 75g used for around $100 if you drive a hard bargain and seller is motivated to get rid of the tank

Just make absolutely sure to see the tank in person with water in it for a leak test