What would you do??

Ok so here is the scoop. I moving across town, so that means moving the tank. BUT there is a couple issues, and I would like some "What would you do" opinions.
Currently I have a 55g plexi tank, with 29g sump. 6 x 96w T5s which are due for a changing. not a lot of life ( one clown, fire shrimp, 3 softies and a clean up crew) The tank has a bulk head on the bottom, as well a cracked that has been patched and holding water. Also the sump is in the stand, and in order to get the sump out I have to take off the front part of the stand.
Now I also have a 100g glass tank and stand, and plenty of extra base rock in my possession.
If I were to move the 55 I would do it without taking it off the stand, and leaving sand bed undisturbed. This way I dont break the crack open. But its going to be super heavy and I dont know how much help I may have, and Im going down stairs.
If I were to upgrade, I could only spend $500-600 max, and that if Im lucky. I would go with new LED UFO lighting. Either a overflow box or try drilling the glass and hope its not tempered. Also I was thing of keeping my sump/fuge for a bit to help seed the new rock.

What would you do????

 

TThe wight of the sand in the 55g could easily disturb the glass crack that, at be ok...for now. I see that as being a huge potential problem. You do notbwant glass and sand all over the stairs or anywhere for that matter. I would use theb 100g tank...get some nice lights and use the sump you already have on the 55.

 

I have moved my 55 gal planted aquarium with river rock and 3" of water in it 2x and its going to be a 3rd on Monday. Be prepared to get your biggest friend to help you. Stairs are a pain... literally in your back, legs and arms. The crack that is sealed most likely will open because the tank will flex more being acrylic; mine is glass and it still flexes to the point where it makes me nervous. Its better to empty it and cycle over again for a short period than to attempt to move the cracked tank IMO. I would slowly work on putting together the 100 gal when you get the time/money rather than moving the 55 gal. Who knows when that crack could expand. Believe me you don't want that disaster at all. 55 gal of water is quite a bit.

 

Yeah, Im think that the 100g is the way to go. I have moved a number of tanks, glass water rock the works. I am not looking foward to it...haha. And there was NO way I was going to move the plexi 55 on its own. If anything it would be moved with the tank on the stand. That crack will bust wide open!

Now should I drill the tank? or overflow box?

 

For aesthetics as well as functionality I would definitely drill the tank. Maybe a semi coast to coast internal bean animal overflow?

 

that makes me nervous...

 

Realistically you wont be able to move the tank & not disturb the sand bed anyways. Carrying it once drained will slosh it as well as the drive. Sounds like loading up tubs & getting the 100 up with the materials invested will be the best bet.

 

Thats exactly what I was thinking. Not really what my wallet wants to hear... But hell Ill get a 100 g tank ahahaha

 

Think about selling the 100g on craigs list and use the proceeds to mostly fund another reef ready tank from crags list. My guess is that if you're patient you could find a good deal and not be out much cash.