Modifying Innovative Marine APS stand

[KJoFan]

So, I purchased the IM APS stand for my Deep Blue 60g rimless tank, knowing the dimensions would be a bit shy for this tank, but figured I could modify it to work.

So, which is more structurally sound:

1. Just attach a piece of plywood that fits the dimensions of the tank directly to the top of the stand? The stand is shy about 3/4" front to back in width and 1" to 1.25" in length end to end. So, the plywood would be unsupported by 3/4" in the back (I would keep the front flush with the existing edge of the stand for aethestics if possible) and 1/2" to 3/4" on each end.

2. Fasten some 1x4 as an outer frame around the two sides and the back either with or without an additional leg to support the 1x4 frame fully, and then place my piece of plywood on top of the stand with the frame so the plywood is also fully supported.

If option 1 is sound, what thickness of plywood would safely support the tank? The tank does have bottom plastic trim.

 

[TheEngineer]

I think you’d be absolutely fine with option 1. 3/4” ply is probably overkill but you might as well

 

[KJoFan]

I think you’d be absolutely fine with option 1. 3/4” ply is probably overkill but you might as well

Good! This is obviously the easier of the two options anyway. Just gotta find some fasteners that will screw into the aluminum frame of the APS stand, paint and seal up some plywood and we should be well on our way.