240 build, with stand size mismatch. Need opinions please

[jbvdhp]

So I'm looking to get a standard size 240, 8/2/2. And there is a stand available locally, steel, that's 8' X 30" wide X 44" tall. If I run plywood under the tank, will the extra six inches pose a problem as the weight of the tank isn't distributed directly around the perimeter? The extra 6" gives me "counter" space, but what does that mean in terms of weight distribution/ instability? If any problems...

Thanks

 

[ckprax]

Depends on the construction of the tank and the stand. Glass or acrylic tank? How many cross braces span the 30"? What is your risk tolerance?

Short answer is get the correct stand. Why risk thousands of dollars in livestock and hardware to save a couple hundred on a stand?

 

[Johnseye]

44" is tall, unless you're trying to match the height of a counter or other piece of furniture. Take into consideration the height of plywood, foam, bottom glass, any spacing and sand.

Steel is good and as mentioned cross bracing, size of steel beams and weight of tank are considerations.

What will be under the floor, slab or basement?

 

[woodnaquanut]

I would not put that tank on that stand w/o modifying the stand. Put posts and a beam at the 24" mark to properly support the tank. With all that height you could put a nice beam in that would not need center support.

 

[anbosu]

I would run cross braces across the top of the stand, then put the plywood down. I'm not sure how much you'd really end up saving, but plywood alone wouldn't make me terribly comfortable if it was mine.

 

[jbvdhp]

Thanks guys, I opted to make the correct stand for the tank. The larger stand was barely used and selling at $200, the correct stand will cost me only $300 more. I sleep better at night knowing it wont buckle or bend at the 24" mark, although maybe unlikely.