Is there a shelf life on tanks?

[Kris P Bacon]

There is about a 60 gallon in someones back yard I could probably get for 20$. Thought about it but I was leary of the silicone condition, plus I have little room.

If in doubt, maybe fill it on a suitable surface, outdoors and check carefully for leaks, over several days.

 

[duanes]

I set a new 150 gallon up in 1986 and had it running 24/7 until 2015 when I moved to Panama, I gave it to a friend, and believe its still up and running.

 

[monkeybike]

I've often wondered if the regular drain and refill water change cycle puts a lot of strain on tank seals due to the change in water pressure.

 

[PYRU]

I'm trying to figure this out right now. I've had plenty of old 125 -180s but all of my old 240+ were acrylic except for a newish 300. I just don't see many very old 8 footers up

 

[The Morning]

My center brace is actually cracked on my 150. There is quite a bit of bowing evident when doing a water change. I have countered this by having a metal brace made to replace the plastic center piece. I think as long as you have something maintaining the integrity of the shape there should not be too much flex to the seals.