I like your thinking about the bigger tank... but its not in the cards for the moment.
well the tank had been moved from the wall to 6" on either side.
i figured i would be able to move the eqipment around a little easier.
i drained it down so there was only 2" of water and sand after everything was removed.
lifted each end and slid 1"X3" wooden planks underneath and slid it forward. AND MEASURED haha.
well it worked great and the fish seem to like the water change