center brace

[wigs]

I have a 55gal how safe is it to empty most of the water cut the center support and attach a lexan polycarbonate piece in replacement of the old one?

[Wiskey]

I've heard of people doing it (using Acrilic though), but it's always made me nervous, and I could never talk myself into taking the chance on my own tank.

Whiskey

[wigs]

yup I am a bit nervous myself. But it would save me a big headache with my lighting system.

[hng]

It's a BIG gamble, and if it holds for a day or two, that is no guarantee it will hold safely next week. I understand that it will save you a big hassle with your lighting situation but think of the alternative - busted tank, 55 gallons of salt water on the floor, fish and rock on the floor, and probably a spouse who will never let you live it down. I hate to be all negative, but sometimes I gotta tell it like it is.

[Hop]

Looking at your other posts, I would strongly suggest either elevating the light further away from the tank and hope that it doesn't leave a huge shadow, or shop for a new light. The risk of cutting the brace doesnot outweigh the benefit of the light IMO. 55s are made from thin glass, you will be suprised how much it bows and how much pressure is against that glass. Plus you are still going to looks about 3-5% of the light through the replacement brace and it will likely weaken due to the heat generated from the light.

I bet if you sold that light to someone local, you would quickly be able to afford a retro kit w/ 2 150 or 2 175 hallides and supplemental lighting.

Just my opinion though

[Orient Master]

Now this is my 55 gal FW system and when i got the system the brace was broken( actualy it was melted from the light that was on it before. but i used some aluminium strips to use as a brace. not the best but it works.

[Geoff]

i have replaced mine with an Acrylic brace. i did it when the tank was empty though, just to make sure the bow was not there when placing the brace. i used Weld-On 16 and some nylon nuts and bolts to secure the brace.

G~

[ckusnierek]

I wonder if anyone makes replacement top trims out of acrylic?