removing black strip around tank

[skriz]

I wanted to remove the black strip that goes around the tank. Is this ok to do? I assume it is there for asthetic purposes only, but just wanted to make sure.

 

[dakota9]

No, from what I understand its there to hold the tank together. They make rimless tanks, Ouling just got one, but rimless tanks are made of thicker glass than a comparable sized "rimmed" tank. I wouldn't remove the plastic trim, IMHO.

 

[victor626nj]

yeah dont do it your tank is to big for that your crazy if you do it but if you do good luck

 

[xyzpdq0121]

Ya, the molding and center braces are there for a reason, leave them in tact!

 

[dakota9]

Speaking of center braces, has anyone ever had any issues with the center brace and MH lighting?

The tank I bought from Flinster has a center brace, and I have a single MH 250 watt fixture. I'm experimenting with rock placement to keep the brace from casting a bad shadow, but wondered if the brace might melt eventually from being directly under the MH. I think I'll definately paint the brace white to keep heat to a minimum, as right now it is black and would retain much more heat....

Any thoughts?......

 

[dakota9]

Hmmm, I have black silicone on hand, and a glass shop very nearby, I wonder if I should attempt this?

I'll pick Oulings brain on this later in the week........ Thanks Dawg

 

[dakota9]

By just offseting the light by two or three inches off center, I could reduce the intensity off the light hitting the brace, and then through rock placement, hide the shadow somewhat that would be cast by the brace. I JUST got this light fixture, so I'm pretty much stuck with using what I got..

Thanks

 

[skriz]

thanks guys. not what I wanted to hear, but that's how it goes.

Dakota, the brace can be removed. there is a thread on RC with pics on how to do it. However, if you can just fiddle with the lighting and rock placement, that would be the way to go.

I have massive center braces made of 3/4" starphire, so you don't have it nearly as bad.

 

[skriz]

I took a good look at the black strip. I don't see how it is holding the together. It is not a solid piece all the way around the tank, so how does it brace? Each side of the tank has a seperate piece.