WTB Tank frame, or ideas for repair

[dirtefish]

So alot of coworkers and friends pass me any aquarium gear they come across to donate to my future plans for a fish room. Through this situation I come across a lot of gently used or seriously abused tanks. The main damage always seems to be to the frame and brace on the top of the tank.

So Im looking for two things, the top frame and brace for a 72g bow front. This thing is drilled and reef ready with glass thats decent and a stand. But the center brace is completely destroyed and the remaining frame is brittle.

The second is a 55g standard that is also reef ready and in great shape, but is missing the top frame work completely.

So if you have, or know where I can purchase one for the 72g bow please let me know, i have searched high and low and emailed aga as well as a few other fab companies and no one makes that specific frame.

The 55g I have also had trouble finding anyone that the shipping wont cost 3 times the price of the frame.

Any ideas links or anything really would be appreciated.

 

[Wicked Color]

Make euro braces for them, they are a better option, the acrylic sheet will be the only cost if you have a jigsaw, and sandpaper, or you could even use a router if you have one.

 

[lpsouth1978@msn.com]

Todd's tropical fish also keeps many of the frames in stock. I know they have them for the 55, and could probably order one for the 72 if it is not in stock.

 

[othercents]

Make euro braces for them, they are a better option, the acrylic sheet will be the only cost if you have a jigsaw, and sandpaper, or you could even use a router if you have one.

This is a good option, but with glass I would probably extend the acrylic over the top edges and add a 1" to 2" acrylic piece that extends over the glass around the top that is welded onto the top piece. This will make a stronger hold with the glass than just an acrylic top.

 

[Wicked Color]

My AGE 280 has an acrylic euro top, glass sides, with a PVC bottom, all silicone seals.

 

[othercents]

My AGE 280 has an acrylic euro top, glass sides, with a PVC bottom, all silicone seals.

Yes, but AGE specializes in Acrylic and PVC on glass. My understanding is that they notch the bottoms to give more surface area and use a specialized sealant that will adhere better. I haven't seen them use an acrylic euro top, but it is possible that your tank is strong enough to run without it and the euro top is just for looks. Does the glass on your tank bow at all, or is it fairly ridged? My 40 Breeder bows significantly.

I still rather be safe than sorry which is why I made that recommendation, however it is possible that a tank that has the stock frame removed can run with just an acrylic euro top. The extra inch or so of bracing for me will just give peace of mind. Whatever you do let it cure fully then test it for multiple days until you are satisfied.

 

[Wicked Color]

fer sure, and I dunno, its in my garage empty till I get all the pieces of the puzzle.