stand questions, removing reinforcements i added.

[Aqua_expert19]

Ok, so now that i have determined im not going to use my aqueon tank that had a chip in it when filling, i ordered a new Marineland reef ready tank. So when i bought my first aqueon 180 (used) i reinforced the stand on the bottom for the sump and then i ran 4x4's in the corners and then replaced the 1x4's with 2x4's in the center as its easier to hit a 2x4 than a 1x4 with a screw.

Now i just removed the 4x4's in the corner and it feels a little wobbly like before i reinforced it. I'm assuming its ok because its has only more than the original in terms of strength but its just a little unnerving. Since the Marineland now has overflows in the corner i cant run those corner braces which really tightened the whole stand up.


The screw holes from the 4x4's have been filled with a total of 14 screws removed. 2 front and back 3 on side (per side).


Over all stand seems to be in decent shape. im just curious of your thoughts.

 

[Fbrondum]

I don't know what you paid for the tank but I bet it would be enough to make me only consider putting it on something I knew would take the weight. Might be ok might not do you want to risk it?

 

[ericarenee]

Here is the best fix ..

there are 3 things ..


A. Remove those two 2x4 laid down from front to back.
B. Build a frame that will sit down inside of the existing 1x frame you can do this out of 1x4 .. you will have to rip them down.. They will sit on the vertical 1x that exist there now.. basically creating a 1x box that will sit inside the existing top.. You can use 2x4 and rip them down for cross bracing like you have the 2x4 now if you wish.. or what ever will fit.
C. Get a piece of either 3/4 plywood or other solid wood surface and put on top of the frame.. this will be the width and length of the whole top...

You can have this hang over the edge either trim sand or round over the edge . (say like a Cabinet or table) Would look better

To add strength you can add plywood on the inside of each end.. and put a 1x4 cross brace from top corner on one end to bottom corner on the other.. screwing to to the middle brace ....

Hope this is explained well enough for you to understand..

The finished product will have your tank sitting on top of the stand not sitting down inside the framing... This will be VERY SOLID and have no issues holding up the tank...