Help with 55g

[kimismurf]

Today I was siting at the table wrapping gifts when I hers a loud crack. I jumped up and was looking all over the glass and checking the rocks. Everything was good until I looked in the top and noticed the enter support that is connected to the top rim of the tank is almost completely broke off. I'm freaking out! I just started this tank and I don't want anything bad to happen to it. I have 2 20g tanks and I am going to be getting them out of storage and getting them ready in case I have to set the up( in the event of a leak) but I am praying nothing happens to it. Can anyone please tell me what to do. Should I try to replace the rim, can I even do that? Or do I have nothing to worry about (yeah right)?

 

[thanh386]

Usually that size tank wouldn't even need a support.... But in ur case the support broke meaning the tank is bowing to an extent that snap the plastic or u are using halides that melt the plastic and it snapped. Best way to tell is to get a ladder or chair and look straight down at the tank. U will notice any bowing almost right away if it's that bad.

Next statement is MY own personal view.
If the tank is made by deep blue or aqueon (sp) throw it out. I have had 2 crack ( 1 was a replacement). The glass is really think imo.

 

[cr500_af]

My .02:

I'd do something about it. I have a 55g that I was given with a cracked center brace exactly as you describe. I decided to test it, and by the time it was half full, the front and rear panels were VERY noticeably bowed. I fixed the tank and use it as a QT now.

 

[ripped tide]

Depending on the brand of the aquarium, you should be able to get a replacement rim. It's not too hard to replace it, but it can be a little frustrating to get the old rim off. you'll want to get the old rim off and clean any excess silicone off of the glass. Put 100% silicone 1 in the new rim, and carefully press into place. If your tank is bowing, you'll need a helper to VERY gently press the front and back glass so that the rim can fit in to place. I would not remove the old rim until you are sure that you can find a replacement (different brands make slightly different sizes). If you can't find one, you can get creative with acrylic and weld-on.

 

[mjl0320]

We just had to make an emergency switch from our 60g cube to a 90g tank. The tank seemed fine at first, but after a while we noticed a small amount of water on the floor. After using every tank we had laying around, we managed to upgrade safe and sound. You should be prepared just in case. If you've had your system set up for a while then I would just look into replacing the rim. Unless of course this gives you an even better reason to upgrade to a bigger tank! Our tank leak gave us the proper excuse to finally upgrade. Couldn't be happier :yay: