Overflow leak

Discussion in 'I made this!' started by azjohnny, Jun 15, 2012.

to remove this notice and enjoy 3reef content with less ads. 3reef membership is free.

  1. azjohnny

    azjohnny Bristle Worm

    Joined:
    Jun 13, 2012
    Messages:
    136
    Location:
    Phoenix
    I bought a used 180 gal acrylic tank that is drilled and had a overflow corner box installed. It has been leaking from underneath the corner box. I have drained the tank and resealed the box with silicone on both the inside of the box and the tank side. I have noticed the builder has used 3/8 " acrylic sheet instead of 1/2' and it does have a positive bow

    It still leaks but the leak location has changed and it is smaller.

    I have thought of using lining an acrylic gusset around the box on the tank side to seal the box.

    Any suggestions would be appreciated
     
    azjohnny, Jun 15, 2012
    azjohnny, Jun 15, 2012
    #1

    2. Click Here!

  2. salsalito25

    salsalito25 Stylophora

    Joined:
    Feb 15, 2008
    Messages:
    979
    Location:
    Marengo, Ohio
    Only a idea.. Here.. if possiable completly dry the leaking area if there is a crack of course and find some weld on for it and it should/help the leak. its what they use to build acrylic tanks.

    Here's a link to help you out so you know what i am talking about if you don't already.

    Weld-on #4 for Plexiglas acrylic

    Hope this will help you out..
     
    salsalito25, Jun 15, 2012
    salsalito25, Jun 15, 2012
    #2
  3. azjohnny

    azjohnny Bristle Worm

    Joined:
    Jun 13, 2012
    Messages:
    136
    Location:
    Phoenix
    the tank is dry right now, and I have cleaned the area that had the silicone using acetone and I am ready to install the gusset. I have some Weld On 16 on the way and will use 1/2" square rods as the gusset.

    I have filled and drained the tank twice and want to make sure I get it right the 3rd time
     
    azjohnny, Jun 15, 2012
    azjohnny, Jun 15, 2012
    #3
  4. mm2002

    mm2002 Feather Duster

    Joined:
    Feb 19, 2007
    Messages:
    231
    Location:
    Palm Beach Florida
    Does the tank have a top brace? If not, I'd sure add that to "must do" list. I was thinking about the "bow" and wondered. Why would anyone build a 180 with 3/8" acrylic???
    I would also consider a 1/2 square rod vertically in each corner as added strength. 3/8" surface area seems a little thin for a 180.
     
    mm2002, Jun 16, 2012
    mm2002, Jun 16, 2012
    #4
  5. azjohnny

    azjohnny Bristle Worm

    Joined:
    Jun 13, 2012
    Messages:
    136
    Location:
    Phoenix
    The tank does have a top brace, its your typical acrylic tank with a full sheet top with 2 large cutouts, each one measuring 24"x12"

    After measuring the bottom sheet again I think the bottom maybe 1/2". The previous owner had the bottom drilled for a CL with 3 holes, I have them plugged up with 3/4 " acrylic squares from the inside of the tank
     
    azjohnny, Jun 16, 2012
    azjohnny, Jun 16, 2012
    #5
  6. salsalito25

    salsalito25 Stylophora

    Joined:
    Feb 15, 2008
    Messages:
    979
    Location:
    Marengo, Ohio
    I would think the weld on will fix your leak issue's quite well. it will bond the acrylic alot stronger than silicone.. I hope it works for ya..

    Best of luck..
     
    salsalito25, Jun 17, 2012
    salsalito25, Jun 17, 2012
    #6