customizing tanks?

[Robert Fling]

I'm curious if you can buy panels for the end pieces and the bottom of an aquarium to make a bigger foot print. I'd like to get into keeping rays but my standard 125 won't be enough. I'd like to switch out the 2 side panels and the bottom panel to have a 36 inch width instead of an 18 inch width. is it possible? or will it be just as expensive to set up an indoor pond?

 

[HumanBean]

I am not to sure about the cost of it but starting an indoor pool is bit easier as compared to modify tanks. Unless you are skilled and know whats involved.

 

[Robert Fling]

I do know whats involved but I've never done it. I

 

[boldtogether]

Essentially, by removing the ends and bottom, you are building a new tank from scratch and don't forget the top and bottom framing. In my opinion, glass thickness becomes the issue when increasing tank size from a previously engineered tank. The glass used in a 125, often, is thinner than that of a 220/240. Many times the bottom glass is tempered, making the cost for that particular panel higher.
It seems to me, building a home for the special fish you want to keep makes more sense...and you are able to keep the integrity of tank you have.

 

[jwh]

It's possible, thickness of glass panels is determined by the depth, so of this remains the same, your glass thickness should remain the same. For the amount of work involved, and the risk of breaking a panel I'd rather get a new tank.

 

[Robert Fling]

I wouldn't mind buying a second hand tank but theres never any 200+ gallon tanks up here in Maine, I can't even go to a store and buy one here, the largest size anyone carries is a 125

 

[Robert Fling]

I've looked into ordering a large tank buy that costs thousands, I'm a fish keeper on a budget hahah

 

[Lepisosteus]

so the additional glass will be around $900, I get a 6x4ft piece for $450. look for a used aquarium and take the glass from that