Has anyone customized a tank like this?

Trebor · Jan 31, 2013

I have been looking into going led, I have a 46 gl bowfront. It has a crossmemeber, has anyone replaced that with a an acrylic piece? Cut it out but leave enought to drill a couple holes on each end then cut and drill your acrylic piece and plastic bolt it together? Just a thought! If anyone has seen this or know someone who has done it I would like to hear the story.

Blasto · Jan 31, 2013

I had the 72g bow a few years back. The exhaust fan on my lights quit and the heat made the cross member crack. I had to drain the tank to about 20% and put ratchet straps around it to allow for the tank to take form again so I could replace the top trim. I would think weakening it in any way would maybe cause you problems. I hope it doesn't and it works well.

Sorry, not much help but just some info on the importance of the cross member. Sure you already know lol Just hate to see a plan go bad.

Good luck!!!

ferguson2 · Jan 31, 2013

I have seen people replace their center brace with a threaded rod, 2 nuts and 2 L brackets. It worked really well. Make sure you coat it though or it will eventually rust.

Thizz · Feb 1, 2013

i would say this is a bad idea.
besides,the brace wont interfere with the light spread too much to notice ime.if thats what you're worried about.

Trebor · Feb 1, 2013

Yes, light coverage is my concern.

Paul C. · Feb 1, 2013

I remember years ago, my first fresh water tank was a 39 gallon. Hated that center brace. Being maybe 19 at the time, I knew more than the manufacturer did.. I cut it out. As soon as i got through it with a hack saw (omg.. what was i thinking) that tank bowed about a 1/2 inch on the front and back panels. It held, for about a year and was eventually shut down.. I don't think id press my luck again.

turbo21 · Feb 1, 2013

if you are replacing the trim you cut out with acrylic, you won't have a problem. The problem is if you cut out the trim and leave it out.

I have seen it done before with success

bob

saratj1 · Feb 2, 2013

You may actually strengthen the tank if you do it right, go for it, get thick acrylic and a good bonding solution (either weld on or bolts) I don't see why it wouldn't be strong enough. I would try to pre stress it a little bit by strapping the top and pulling it in a little and leaving the strap taught while I installed the new brace then release the strap so the new brace will be under tension.