Building a 125 stand. How much span?

[cveverly]

I am building a stand for my 125 and want to have a 48" opening in the center so I can put my 75 under the 125.
I am using 2X8 framing, think it is safe to span the 48" or should I add a brace in the center? I would really like to have a full view of the 75 without a brace in the center.
Any ideas?

 

[jag3365]

Can't you add a center brace but not attach it to the stand? Just have it in there for support but be removable to view the entire tank?

 

[bigdjp]

I would say you should be pretty safe using a 2X8 to span 48" with no problem. If you layed upright like a header it should be more than strond enough to span the entire length.

 

[cveverly]

Originally posted by bigDJP
If you layed upright like a header it should be more than strond enough to span the entire length.

That is the way I did it. I also glued and screwed a second 2x8 on the back side. I will know soon, I am going to test fill it outside just incase.

 

[jlem]

Here is a good plan that I use alot when I build stands.
https://www.saltwaterfish.com/vb/show...hreadid=122669
The 2X8 frame will just add extra weight and take up alot of room.