broken center brace

[jwshowski]

I was cleaning out an old 55 that I plan to use as a sump/fuge and while cleaning I accidentally leaned on the center brace and snapped it. I plan on putting baffles in the tank but will a broken center brace hurt? Is there anyway that I can brace it so it doesnt flex with water? Will it hurt the baffles if it flexes?

 

[ronkent]

you could cut the middle of it out and replace with acrylic held on by nylon screws. I did both braces on my 125 so i could get away with 2 lights instead of 3. Tank has been up for 1 year with no probs.

 

[zt444a]

It has or had a plastic rim, correct? If it did, you can get some acrylic, I'd go with two pieces spaced about 4 to 6 inches each side of the middle, cut to fit inside the trim. Glue them in and that should do the trick.

If you are worried about flexing and it is just going to be a sump/fuge, after you did the repair I'd fill it with water and check the bow. Of course in sump it won't be full up, so that should aleviate any concerns about bowing.

 

[StupidsReef]

As Howard stated this is going to be a sump so it won't be completely filled. The baffle's them self will/should if done right will keep it from bowing. The 55g sump I traded with Howard was filled way to full and with three baffles even if the center brace had been broke I don't think it would have bowed.

 

[zt444a]

Didn't even think about the added support from the baffles. I'd still do a piece on the top too though....

 

[chadfarmer]

dont sweat it

a guy i know has a 55 full with out the center brace

anyways the baffles will support it