Large Frag Tank Repair Questions

Mester320 · Jul 18, 2019

I recently purchased a 72Lx24Wx16H, basically a 220 cut in half, to use as a frag tank in the fish room I am building. It was not perfect but for $275 I figured it was worth the risk. Once home I realized that the bottom trim is cracked in multiple spots and when I pulled on one corner it broke apart. Wondering if anyone has a recommendation on what to do. Just order a new stock brace or is there a better solution?

Also I will be resealing the entire tank before using

ArizonaAquatics · Jul 18, 2019

Usually when there are cracks like that it means the tank was being stressed in one way or another. Sometimes is caused by excess weight on one part of the tank or an unlevel surface. It is not uncommon though, as I've seen many of these plastic braces break.

In either case, I'd pull it off and make sure all your glass is intact before you fill it. If you can find a new trim piece, I'd probably just do that. Unless you feel comfortable enough to leave it off!

Mester320 · Jul 18, 2019

It seems that the tank is pretty old. i am wondering where to get these replacements. also I wonder if I could leave the top brace off?

TheGreatWave · Jul 18, 2019

Try here: https://www.aquariumindustrial.com/

ArizonaAquatics · Jul 19, 2019

Mester320 said:
It seems that the tank is pretty old. i am wondering where to get these replacements. also I wonder if I could leave the top brace off?

It most likely is. My 250 is around 15 years old so I know how it is lol. Had to strip out all the silicone and reseal it!

But no, unfortunately you can't run it without a top brace. The tension on the glass without top support will cause the glass to bow and break. That's the only unfortunate thing about the plastic braces haha.

The bottom you might be able to get away with since all 4 sides are connected to the bottom glass. Personally, I wouldn't fully trust it without all the supports there though[emoji1303]

ca1ore · Jul 19, 2019

That tank looks like it's been through the proverbial wringer. Even a 15 year old, well cared for tank shouldn't have cracked trim. Also keep in mind that 're-sealing' is primarily an aesthetic effort. It will do nothing for any structural problems.