Resealing and cleaning a vintage Metaframe slate bottom

[OCRacer]

I have a 10g chrome trim vintage Metaframe aquarium which I filled with water to test out and it does leak. The original tar-like sealant was removed at some point and the tank was resealed. It appears to be leaking on one side and around the slate bottom. I am thinking the best course of action is to clean off all clear silicone, clean the glass, have a plate of glass cut to cover the slate, and seal everything back up. The problem is I have no idea what I am doing. Can anyone suggest a resource for resealing vintage aquariums or any advice for those who have? Thanks in advance. Mitch

 

[dougall]

Normally you would use the tar, and just fill with hot water, this melts it to the holes and seals it until dry and empty for the most part.

Depending on aesthetics you nay as well remove all old silicone, clean the glass with alcohol etc, and reseal the same way you would with a modern aquarium. Adding a glass on the bottom should be optional, if the slate leaks it wouldn't make a very good aquarium in the first place.

HTH

 

[tanker]

I use to have many old Metaframe tanks, a few with the slate bottom, aside from nostalgia, why would you want one. I have since tossed all my old stuff.

 

[FreshyFresh]

I use to have many old Metaframe tanks, a few with the slate bottom, aside from nostalgia, why would you want one. I have since tossed all my old stuff.

Yep. That's my take as well.

I had two different Metaframe 10g when I first started in the hobby. Never again when 10g tanks can be bought new for $10 when on sale.

 

[dudley]

Check out this website http://www.rickwrench.com/index79master.htm?http://www.rickwrench.com/stainlessaquariums.html
http://www.rickwrench.com/index79master.htm?http://www.rickwrench.com/stainlessaquariums.html
It is the only site info I've seen for fixing/repairing these type tanks and does offer some great info + background info on brands.

My suggestion would be to see if you can clean the existing glass first or fill with water to see if the viewing glass is satisfactory enough for you otherwise you may want to replace the front glass which would open a whole new can of worms work wise.

I agree that a new tank is cheaper and less work but many people enjoy these old tanks and either want to re-experience using them or enjoy the classic look. I bought a bunch of them a few years ago and still haven't got around to rejuvenating any of them.