broken brace 55gallon

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oakes

oakes

Jack Dempsey
MFK Member
Mar 13, 2009
321
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Lynchburg, VA
I'm sure I know the answer to this question but just want to make sure. I just recently got a used 55gallon tank with a broken center brace, and was wondering if I needed to replace the top trim if I plan on turning this into a sump. I'll probably be attaching 3 or 4 1/4" pieces of glass inside. I'm assuming this would be enough if not more support that the top brace itself...
 
Firstly, you will notice that 55's usually have all the sides tempered because they historically use thinner glass and are much more prone to bowing. I would be VERY careful with using one with a broken center brace.

Secondly... glass on the inside (which I'm assuming your using for baffles) will not help the integrity of the structure from bowing. The problem is that the pressure on the inside of the tank is pushing the sides OUT, and the center brace is supporting the sides from giving. When you are inserting glass on the inside, you are not helping secure that.

If you must use this 55, then might I suggest a a vice or something to permanently support the walls? Personally, I wouldn't use it. You can probably find a used 55 cheap enough that you don't have to worry about.
Just my 2 cents.
 
the more I think about it, you might be OK if it's only your sump considering it won't be filled all the way with water. But I would still be nervous.

Then again, I'm a conservative nervous nelly when it comes to my tanks. :ROFL:
 
I'd just build a wood frame around the top and then run several braces across the depth of the frame. If you built it right it would be more than strong enough.
 
cool, thought I was going to have to go through my LFS to get frames, now I don't have too unless they can get them cheaper which I doubt it..The center brace is so messed up that one side is cracked down the center, but plexi would have been a quick fix..What's going to be the easiest way to remove the old frames?
 
oakes;3006533; said:
cool, thought I was going to have to go through my LFS to get frames, now I don't have too unless they can get them cheaper which I doubt it..The center brace is so messed up that one side is cracked down the center, but plexi would have been a quick fix..What's going to be the easiest way to remove the old frames?
Click to expand...

A thin sharp blade to run up each side of the trim, dislodge the trim and silicone.
 
hsd;3005958; said:
You can order a new trim piece from http://www.glasscages.com/?sAction=ViewCat&lCatID=43 . Just make sure its the same size.

The broken brace if it's still in place you can attach a piece of plexi underneath it with glue. Then drill a few holes in the brace and plexi. Attach together with nylon or stainless steel bolts/nuts.
Click to expand...
glasscages will make one to order
 
I hate to be the one who is going to go against all these ones saying that it wouldn't work but I can't understand how you can say that the baffles in the tank WON'T act like braces in the tank?? the pressure is taken off by a piece of glass almost the highth of the tank siliconed. Its no differnt then having the tank half the size. You will be fine using this tank as a sump even with the brace cut out. The place I work at will cut the brace out of a 125 and build a sump out of it using the baffles like an internal brace. Its really no differnt then having euro bracing. Good luck with the build and keep us posted on your progress!
 
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