75g middle support fell, do i need it?

[juliotx]

the glass middle support that is siliconed inside the tank fell from one side. it gets in the way and i dont see it add much support. if the tank were to start bowing i dont see the silicone and brace keeping it from doin so. the tank is also trimmed in the plastic trim on top and bottom. before i pull the attached end or not i wanted to get some opinions or advice. thanks for the help

 

[jpc763]

I can't really picture it in my mind. Can you take a photo and post?

 

[sman]

My 90's glass brace fell, but it was bowing, I just resiliconed it last night when it was empty. I dont forsee the 75 using it as much since its about 6 in shorter, but the glass may not be as thick, so im not entirely sure. Ill get a picture of mine up later tonight.
Also you do know you have to drain most of the water out to fix that right?

 

[juliotx]

this is the best i can do right now since im at work. the black box is the top trim on the tank, the red box is the glass support piece that fits snug in between front and back sides of tank and is siliconed in place. the tank glass i believe is 1/2" thick and the lenght of the tank is 48".

 

[jpc763]

If it were me, I would fix it or buy a new tank. The last thing I want is for my tank to crack and pour all over the floor. My wife would absolutely kill me.
Search around in the forums about the horror stories of tanks cracking. That brace was there for a reason.

 

[juliotx]

friend told me the brace was there as a center support for lights (if lights that rest on tank are used) or glass cover support. he said if the tank were to start to give there is no way the silicone is going to hold it back. makes sense to me but i want to get some more opinions. thanks

 

[jpc763]

Originally Posted by juliotx
http:///forum/post/2665534
friend told me the brace was there as a center support for lights (if lights that rest on tank are used) or glass cover support. he said if the tank were to start to give there is no way the silicone is going to hold it back. makes sense to me but i want to get some more opinions. thanks
That all makes sense. My 55g glass does not have one, only has the dark plastic brace. Maybe someone else with a 75 will know for sure.

 

[scrombus2]

What brand is your tank? 1/2" seems thick to me. More like 1/4" or 5/16".
If it is indeed 1/2" glass,then the brace is probably not necessary, but thinner glass would require a brace. To test for bowing, fill the tank with water and hold a straightedge against the front of the tank, or measure the tank at the top at one end and at the center. Be accurate with your measurements. Of course, with the potential of a flood and loss of your stock, reattaching the brace is the way to go.