Would this stand work for 2 x 125gal?

[NOLAGT]

I want to build a stand that would hold 2 tanks about 125 gal each. Bottom tank would be 72x18x21 and the top would be 72x18x23. The wood would be screwed and gorilla glued together. I dont want a center support on the front since there would be a 6' tank on the bottom. There would be support on the back. So would a 2x4 on the back and a 4x4 on the front be strong enough. Should I do 2x6 on the front rather than a 4x4?

thanks

 

[nugpuffer]

Personally, I would have the top crossbeams (2x4 and 4x4) resting on top of the side 2x4s. Else you are putting direct shearing stress on the screws/gorilla glue instead of the wood beams. You could probably cut a 1.5"x3.5" (or 1.5"x5.5" for the front if using a 2x6) corner out of the side 2x4s so that the crossbeams fit neatly. Then run a couple of heavy duty hex bolts through to hold them in place.

 

[big train]

I used all 2x6 on mine it's been up and running 3+ years now no glue and just a few screws to hold it while i put in the the big bolts. My only regret is that the stand should have been taller the bottom access is like 8-9". I can't put large ornaments in the bottom tank and it's just enough room to prime the hob's with a cup of water just not much room to work.

 

[NOLAGT]

I was thinking along the lines of 12" usable work room. The bottom tank just about on the floor since I have a python.

 

[DB junkie]

A had a stand for twin 125s made solely out of 2 by 4s. It worked, and did for 10+ years before I got it (LFS's)

However I used 2 by 6s when I built mine. IF you wanted to use 4 by 4s you could, but I'd just double up 2 by 4s and call it a day.

Build the stand so the wood supports the weight, NOT the screws. In other words theoreticly the stand should be able to hold up the tank even if all the screws were removed.

1st pic add 2 by 4s to support the weight of the top tear (just add a 2 x 4 to each leg).

2nd pic just replace the 4 by 4 with a doubled up 2 by 4 then do the same on back side.

Only reason I say doubled up 2 by 4s over 4 by 4s is the $ you'll save, and if you're gonna glue them properly they should be just as strong.

Clear as mud? LOL