Center Brace?

[uncwnells]

Does a 45 gallon tank need a center brace? I just bought a used tank that has the center brace broken out, it is 36" long 24" tall and 12" wide, I am wondering if I need to try and rig something up or just let it ride...

 

[vaine111]

There has to be a reason it was there. IMO with it being that tall I would say yes it needs one.

 

[joedodge]

i had a brand new perfecto i think it was a couple years ago that even filled the center brace sagged like it wasnt doing anything but as stated above it must be there for a reason i wouldnt risk it

 

[uncwnells]

yeah, I just filled it up (outside of course) and it seems to be bowing a little bit. Whats the easiest way to put a center brace in? Or should I just order a new rim for the tank from allglass?

 

[vaine111]

Depends on how you want it to look. I'd order a new one.
you can take a 2x4 and cut notches in it where the sides will be.

 

[joedodge]

if there is anything left of the old brace you could use a piece of 1/8 flat aluminum 2" wide and use stainless bolts and nuts to tie the rim back together as the brace its a lil crude looking but functional

 

[uncwnells]

i ordered a new frame top from pet warehouse. Im sure its the easiest way to go, at least i hope so.

 

[joedodge]

excelent prolly the best choice of all i hope it gos well ive resealed a tank but never replaced a top or bottom rim

 

[mfgl]

My 55 has a center brace, but as far as I can tell they only put it in there so they could use 2 29g hoods instead of two long fixtures. Im thinking aobut switching to glass tops so I can have more light on one side and no light on the other side

 

[uncwnells]

I have never replaced the top rim of a tank either, nor have I ever resealed one, but I feel like I may go ahead and reseal the tank while I am putting the top brace back on, just to be safe. It held water without leaking when I filled it completely, but the silicon looks a little tattered and I am sure that its not that hard.