Tank frame repair

[KeyboReefer86]

Hi all, I'm refurbishing a 180g marineland tank that I got for cheap and it needs a lot work. No leaks that I've noticed yet. But there are some cracks in the black framing and also the top cross beams seem to have a belly. Was wondering/ hoping theres a fixed to all this.

Also any ideas of how to repair chipped corners?

All suggestions or redirection to any previous post welcome.

Thanks in advance,

Dre'

 

[SAT]

I don't believe the plastic frame is what holds the tank together. However, give the silicone a critical look... if it doesn't have the same resilience as in a new tank, I wouldn't trust it. You might consider removing part of the top frame and adding a glass cross-brace. I also suggest setting it up temporarily in a place where a failure won't flood your home, as a test.

Sharp edges can be ground out using Emory paper.

 

[thegrun]

I would either eurobrace the top or add a couple of glass cross supports, I actually do think the frame is intended to help brace the tank. There isn't anything you can do to repair the chip but you can sand it smooth.

 

[Shamous113]

The cross braces on the plastic frame stop the glass from bowing out when the tank is filled you can buy replacement frames from a place like over the edge

 

[mcgyvr]

I don't believe the plastic frame is what holds the tank together.

Not entirely as the silicone does most of the work.. but those 2 crossbraces at the top ABSOLUTELY a functional and required and the whole top frame is needed to properly support them..
Silicone does the real work then brace/trim just takes some load off the silicones shoulders...

I got a tank from an idiot that removed the top brace and the front/back glass was bowing out over 3" on each side.. I was shocked that the glass/joints had not given way yet.. But he only had the tank filled a little more than 1/2 way as he said he was noticing the bowing getting worse..

The reason they are bowing down is because there is no water in the tank.. Once its filled the glass will bow out some and they will straighten up again..

There is no way to repair a glass chip that would serve any structural purpose.. A chip repair kit is just cosmetic..

 

[KeyboReefer86]

The cross braces on the plastic frame stop the glass from bowing out when the tank is filled you can buy replacement frames from a place like over the edge

Thanks, I was hoping for a response like this where i could just buy a replacement frame. But is seems like that site doesn't cover frame to fit a tank 24inches deep. But I will continue to search.

 

[KeyboReefer86]

Not entirely as the silicone does most of the work.. but those 2 crossbraces at the top ABSOLUTELY a functional and required and the whole top frame is needed to properly support them..
Silicone does the real work then brace/trim just takes some load off the silicones shoulders...

I got a tank from an idiot that removed the top brace and the front/back glass was bowing out over 3" on each side.. I was shocked that the glass/joints had not given way yet.. But he only had the tank filled a little more than 1/2 way as he said he was noticing the bowing getting worse..

The reason they are bowing down is because there is no water in the tank.. Once its filled the glass will bow out some and they will straighten up again..

There is no way to repair a glass chip that would serve any structural purpose.. A chip repair kit is just cosmetic..

Thanks, good to know about the bowing. I plan to block the overflows and do a true fill test, will see if they straighten out.

I was mainly concerned about the cracks in the frame, thinking maybe I could use some plastic resin or epoxy to fill in, sand down and probably spray paint. The tank was kept in an open garage before purchase so the black frame is a bit faded.

 

[KeyboReefer86]

I don't believe the plastic frame is what holds the tank together. However, give the silicone a critical look... if it doesn't have the same resilience as in a new tank, I wouldn't trust it. You might consider removing part of the top frame and adding a glass cross-brace. I also suggest setting it up temporarily in a place where a failure won't flood your home, as a test.

Sharp edges can be ground out using Emory paper.

Thanks, It currently sits in my garage and will stay there until I'm sure its fully tried and tested. The main silicone around the main frame does appear to be in good condition, I filled the tank about 1/4 way when i did the first clean and there was no immediate leaking. however the silicone that secures the overflow boxes have change color and shows signs of lifting. So i definitely plan on stripping and replaces those.

Is there a specific brand and type of silicone preferred by reefers?

 

[SAT]

I suggest silicone sold for aquarium use, such as:
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=3963

 

[KeyboReefer86]

I suggest silicone sold for aquarium use, such as:
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=3963

Thanks

 

[ca1ore]

Cracked frames (top and bottom?) and chipped glass suggest that tank has taken a beating. Not unusual for the cross braces to 'sag' like that. My 265 braces did that even when full.

 

[KeyboReefer86]

Cracked frames (top and bottom?) and chipped glass suggest that tank has taken a beating. Not unusual for the cross braces to 'sag' like that. My 265 braces did that even when full.

Yea, it wasnt stored that well by the previous owner. But i got it for $80, cant complain. Just trying my best to bring it back to glory.

 

[on the spot]

Cracked frames suggest that tank has taken a beating...

or it's just old.

If the cross bracing is intact and everything is still firmly attached I don't see a reason to putz except for it's own sake. a little vinegar to clean it up and off to the races.

HTH

 

[ca1ore]

or it's just old.

Doubt it. I've had a few 20 year plus tanks and the frames never cracked. Drop them then they crack.