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Old 09-01-2008, 02:57 PM   #1
ckusnierek
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Resealing a tank step by step


Got a leaking tank? Dont throw it away! Reseal it!

This is copied from my 125g build thread I thought I would share it in the DIY incase anyone is interested.

The tools:
Long flexible razorblade
Standard razorblade
Shop vac
Tape
Windex
Silicone
Lots of paper towels

Fist use the long flexible razor the cut the silicone in the corners from each side.




Be careful not to lay the blade too flat when cutting the side were the blase cout cut thru the seal betweee the two panes.

Then use the standard blade to clean up the corner and get all the silicone cut as close to the corner as possible. I also used this blade to do the final cleanup of the silicone. Just use a sharp blade and push hard into the glass.

Notice how I keep the blade at about 45 degrees.



After all the silicone is removed use the shop vac and clean all the debris. Then clean the glass with windex or another glass cleaner. I cleaned it about 4 times just to make sure.

Next I used painters tape 2" wide you could use masking tape but I like the blue and I like it wider. I used the "scum" lines that were left after removing the old silicone when I placed the tape. If you dont have any lines for reference I suggest you measure from the cornners to and bottom and mark the tank with a sharpie.

Here is the tank all taped up:




Now for the messy part. Apply a liberal bead of silicone up the corner. Then use your finger to smooth it out. I ran my finger up the seam 2-3 times to get it smooth and even. Remove the tape asap as the silicone will begin "skin" quickly. Is the silicone sets too much it will pull as you remove the tape. It's pushing 90 degrees here today with low humidity and I did this in the garage. Yet after 5 mins the silicone had already began to skin over.




Here is the finished corner




In all the project took less than 2 hours and most of the times was removing the old silicone.

I was a little leary to try this but it was really peice of cake!

If I failed to mention anything please ask any questions...
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Old 09-01-2008, 07:00 PM   #2
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You failed to mention if it leaks this time, but I guess we'll let you wait until the silicone seals first. Looks good!
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Old 09-01-2008, 07:44 PM   #3
ckusnierek
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Actually I dont even know if it leaked at all. I got it used and the corners had soem nasty razor blade battle scars. Since I needed a new top frame I figures why not re seal it....

Once the top frame comes in I will water test it and let you know....
Un less you really want me to fill it without and center braces? I wonder if duct tape would hold it together
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Old 09-01-2008, 09:19 PM   #4
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Quote:
Originally Posted by ckusnierek View Post
I wonder if duct tape would hold it together
Based on my understanding of duct tape, absolutely.
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