*Help* Resealing 135g aquarium

[trilerian]

I just purchased a 135g used glass aquarium and need to reseal it due to a leak. I have got almost all of the old silicone seal removed from the inside of the tank, just a bit more removal work to do. Most of the information I have read all says the same things on how to reseal an aquarium, my question is are there any specifications on how big or small the corner seals should be and how to get the correct size seal foe a 135g tank. Any knowledge and suggestions would be helpful! Thanx so much, Janel. :help:

 

[Rallysman]

When I resealed my 135 I cleaned it with alcohol, and taped it off about 1/2" from every corner. If it doesnt have a center brace i would also suggest reinforcing the corners with "L" brackets.

 

[bpimm]

The fillet you are putting in the corner is just a seal, it does not add any strength to the joint. Where is the leak? that portion of the glue joint between the glass panels has failed if water is coming through. You can just reseal with the inner seal but the strength has been compromised somewhat. The proper way to repair that area is to remove the smallest panel involved with the leak, clean and reinstall that panel then redo the seal inside. I would look over the joint in question real close, the joint should be uniformly clear without bubbles or cloudy areas, a cloudy area could mean a failure in progress. Remember that part of this joint has failed. If you can post a close-up photo of the joint where it is leaking.

Brian

 

[trilerian]

It does have a center brace, but getting an up-close picture of the glass in the leaking area is tough due to the fact that it is along the bottom back wall and covered with trim. Would it be possible to run a bead of the glue in the seam before I put in the new silicone?

 

[bpimm]

if you can see a gap in the joint where it is leaking try to fill it up first, in fact you may want to do that all the way around the bottom, put a small bead in then run your finger over it several times using a increasing pressure on each pass to try and squeeze the material into the void. give that 24 Hrs to cure then reseal all of the joints.

The tear down of a 135 is not a casual undertaking so hopefully the reseal process will work for you. just make sure the glass is clean. use acetone to clean with. rubber gloves and a respirator would be a good idea unless you can hold your breath for a long time.

 

[trilerian]

Okay, I will try that, Thanx much!