shadows in tank?

[Gatorbait]

Is there any way to avoid getting a shadow in the tank when using 1 MH over a tank with a center brace? I'd like to get a 46 bow or something like that but I don't really want to use more than the 250w MH I have now. Will cutting the brace out cause problems down the road?

[yardboy]

The centr brace helps keep the tank from bowing out in the middle, as you probably already know. Some have tried removing or educng it, often with unfortunate results.

[Doug1]

Yes it will cause you grief, alternative to a glass tank might be an acrylic tank with "eurobracing" (thicker reinforced top flange ,open center)

[funi42]

i removed the center brace on my 55 almost 2 years ago and replaced with 2 clear acrylic pieces about 1/3rd in from each side, tank even went through a 300 mile move with no ill effects... but its obviously up to you with the inherent risks involved. just wanted to say it can be done if you do it right

[Twitterbait]

I replaced the center brace with a siliconed glass sheet. the silicone was not holding well so i reinforced it on the side with a thick piece of wire from a hanger. i had to replace the wire about every 6-8 months but it worked out fine.