Remove middle bar from 65 gallon tank???

[JBrowning]

I have a 65 gallon all glass tank, and on the top is a plastic bar running in the middle from the from to the back. It unfortunately cats a shadow on my tank and blocks part of my metal halide (which my corals don't like) If I remove the bar from the tank will it still be stabe? Safe? How could I remove it? Any thoughts would be really appreciated - thanks!

 

[GTR]

Sounds like some of the tanks I've had in the past built by Island. If so in time the center brace will crack. The center brace may have been used to hold the top glass cover or lights but I'd still not remove it without knowing for sure. If you know who built it you might contact them and ask though I'd expect them to tell you it's need regardless.

SteveU

 

[boofer]

You could always cut it out and euro-brace it. Shouldnt be much money for the glass. But Im assuming your tank is running. It wouldnt be a good idea to do that full of water and corals. Unless you have big cohones and lots of towels

 

[ezhoops]

Some people have removed it and replaced it with a clear acrylic support so it at least doesn't block light.

 

[gil716]

I did the same thing after reading about a couple of successful mods. I went the extra mile and used two strips of 1/2" acrylic. They are secured to the black frame via nylon bolts made for toilet seats.

 

[JBrowning]

gil716, can you tell me how you did it? Was your tank up and running?