75g tank without a center brace

L

lumsden

Registered Member
Feb 21, 2006
2
0
0
Hi,

I recently purchased a used 75g tank (Perfecto - dated 1987). The tank looks to be in great shape but I just realized that it doesn't have a center brace.

I've considered a couple of options:

1. purchase a new frame from Perfecto (about $19 + $6-10 for shipping)
2. silicone a piece of glass from front to back under the rim

Any other options?? Suggestions are welcome.

As an additional question, does the center brace on the bottom of the tank serve any structural purpose? I know the top brace prevents bowing of the tank but it isn't clear to me what the center brace on the bottom does. If I replace the top frame, does it make sense to replace the bottom as well?

Thanks,
Mark
 
many older tanks were built without center braces. as long as the silicone at the joints is in good shape, you should be ok. try a test fill outdoors if your uncertain. take measurements at the center of the tankl while empty and again when it's full to determine the amount of deflection.
 
I would agree. If it is made without the center brace, then it should be ok. If you can see that it had a center brace and it was removed I'd order a new frame with one.
 
I had an older 110 made without the center brace. The front pane would bow out almost 1/2" inch when full. Not a real comforting feeling. (Gave the tank away when I moved.)
 
For the" peace of mind" that would develop knowing the tank is more secure, the $30 is cheap, IMO.
 
75g without center brace - follow up question

Thanks for the suggestions.

Just a quick follow-up question - is there any reason to replace the bottom frame as well as the top?

Does the center brace on the bottom frame do anything?

Thanks again,
Mark
 
If the bottom frame looks damaged or cracked, I would suggest to replace it. I believe from an engineering standpoint, it actually has more stress on it than the top frame, though both work together to maintain the tank's structural integrity as a unit.
 
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