Moving tank to new stand

[adamyaws]

I'm getting close to pulling the trigger on a new custom-made canopy and stand. I bought the 90 (48x18) I have now on craigslist at 6-months old with a crap pine Aqueon stand and canopy. My wife is an interior designer and has been annoyed by the appearance of the furniture since day 1.

At this point it doesn't have anything in it other than crabs, rock, sand, and water. If I dropped the water down to 1/3, pulled out the rocks, what does the community here think about picking it up and moving it to a new stand.

Fortunately I have some strong friends and access to suction cups.

Thanks!
Adam

 

[woodnaquanut]

Empty is the only safe way, just saying...

 

[billdogg]

Empty is the only safe way, just saying...

What he said

even 1/3 full, you are looking at 30g of water at ~ 8lb/g = #240, plus the weight of the tank itself. Just drain if as far as you possible can - the crabs won't care about low tide, remove as many rocks as you can, and then give it a try. If you can, have two sets of helpers - one set to pick the tank up, the other to snatch out the old stand and slide the new one into place.

 

[adamyaws]

Awesome, thanks!

 

[hotelbravo]

I have been preparing to do the same thing with a 30 gallon tank. Do you still recommend completely emptying the tank or with this small tank would 1/3rd work?? I have 2 clowns, 1 mandarin, and a RBTA.

 

[sleepydoc]

The above advice applies to any tank! It's virtually impossible to move without putting some torque on the tank; having water in it amplifies that significantly and risks breaking the seams.

I honestly can't think of any good reason not to empty a tank completely.