Center Brace Broke

Not quite an emergency since the tank is sitting empty. But I acquired a 55 gallon tank for next to nothing. I noticed the center brace was a little cracked and while I was cleaning the tank, the brace completely broke. I am more than likely going to order a new frame for the tank, but is there anything I can do to DIY fix it? I have seen some posts on using acrylic for the brace. Could I use polycarbonate instead? Or should I spend the extra $10 for the acrylic? Thanks in advance

 

I think it would be best to try to pick up another tank.

 

I was kinda debating that as well since I only paid $20 for it. The tank is in perfect condition though, besides the brace that is.

 

It just seems like a pita to replace a top brace,tanks aren't really that exspensive when compared to the cost of an entire system.Tou could probably sell it to someone for use as a reptile tank to recover the $20.

 

I have just replaced the trim on my 110g because the center brace was broken when I got it. I tried a DIY fix and it lasted about two years. When I noticed some small cracks again, I looked into how much a top trim piece would be and found it for $28 from the LFS.

Take a hacksaw and cut through the plastic in a couple of places around the rim. Cutting/prying off the small sections are easier than trying to tackle the whole piece.

Use GE Silicon I when installing the new.

Don't listen to anyone telling you to scrap the tank because a replaceable, piece of plastic broke on it.

 

It may be a pita but I really don't want to buy a new tank when this one is in good shape.

Yeah I saw a youtube video of someone doing just that, sawing it off in pieces and using the silicone to glue it back on. There is a website that sells them for $15 plus shipping. I may just do that instead of the acrylic piece. I agree on now scrapping a tank. Thanks

 

Moved to-----General reef topics.

 

Buying the new brace is still cheaper than a new tank.

How necessary are they though? They sell rimless tanks. Does a cheap piece of plastic really offer much resistence under the pressure of water.

 

The difference is that rimless tanks were designed as such. Tanks with braces were likewise designed with the brace in tact. I wouldn't run a tank with a broken brace personally.

 

Yeah I don't plan on running it without a brace. Too risky of tank bowing and cracking.