Buying an used tank

[ScubaPrawn]

I'll be looking at a used tank to buy and visiting the seller's house. Any tips on what I shold inspect and any signs I should be looking for?

It's a package deal: tank, stand, lights, sump.

Thanks!

 

[gveng]

I'll be looking at a used tank to buy and visiting the seller's house. Any tips on what I shold inspect and any signs I should be looking for?

It's a package deal: tank, stand, lights, sump.

Thanks!

is the tank up and running or is it already torn down? whatever the case may be check for any salt creep outside the tank because that would be a good indication of leaks. also check the silicon around the tank, if it looks new then its probably ok, if it looks ugly, brown, or missing i would reseal the tank before using it. also bring a small flash light and check for cracks or deep scratches.

 

[1st timer]

Another thing is look at condition of the stand, if it has been leaking anywhere the stand will show it also.

 

[ScubaPrawn]

Thanks guys, I appreciate the advice.

 

[jhs]

Scratches r a big thing for me.....MH lights make them show up big time...
Bought a tank like that once.....ended up as a sump.....:furious:

 

[TLXB]

Bring a flashlight to look for scratches. View at odd angles, up high, down low, far off to the sides. This helps make scratches show up. Inspect joints, don't bet on rough/worn silicone or weld-on joints holding. Don't forget to check the bottom pane for integrity. Good luck!

 

[TLXB]

Oh any yea, don't buy a tank with obvious scratches, unless you can handle it. I bought a tank with tons of scratches, spent 12 hours trying to get them out with a buffing wheel and cerium oxide, and ended up trashing the thing.

 

[pbnj]

Check the silicone for blue/green coloration. This would indicate the tank was medicated with copper and/or malachite. That medication could leach into the water column....a no-no for reef tanks.