When building a Stand

[conch]

for a 55 gal Using 2x4s do you need a center support beem on the back side of the stand (there will be 4 support beems on the front of the stand (stud wall). I'de like to keep the back open for the full 48" run on the back for ease of access but I'm not sure is it would be structurally sound perhaps if I double up my rear cross beam. would that be better??
I don't really have the drawing skills to put this on screen, hopefull some one can figure out what I mean by my words.
Thanks
Jon
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[majakarot]

you could always step up the board along the back to a 2x6 or 2x8... a wider board will add much more strength than doubling them up

 

[symon]

7 lbs a gal+/- for your LR and LS, I would suggest building the frame out of 4x4's to insure you will support the wieght!

 

[cgrant]

Just build it like you would a normal wall from 2x4's and you will be fine, 16 on-center.
The first time i got my all-glass 210 stand home from the store I looked at it and was like no-way I am trusting this thing with all that weight but it's designed for it and had no problems.
Again just build it 16" on ctr and use 2x4's, you'll be fine. Just make sure it is level!!!

 

[phixer]

Concur, a 55 isnt really long enough to warrant a center brace if your using straight timber and a ply top. Give it a good coating of spar or poly though.

 

[acrylic51]

4x4's are total overkill for a tank that size and weight........2x4's would sufice if you use cripple studding method....and not rely just on screws or nails to hold things together..... On my 240 setup I did use 4x4's, but went even further to notch the 4x4's so the weight is carried by the posts themselves and not the fastners.....I did use screws, but again went another step further and used lag bolts as well

 

[fishntx]

i dont have a center brace on the front or the back of my stand and have not had any problems. if you build it right their will be no need for a center brace

 

[krazekajin]

if you look at tank stands at the stores, most of them are made out of particle board. So, 2X4s are just fine.

 

[misfit]

IMO 2x4 are over kill.especially for a 55.Granted it will work but your just using up space.I used 3/4 oak ply for my 210 with no problems.Engineered plywood is stronger then a 2x4, Because the grain of the wood goes it all different direction instead of 1.As long all the joints are tight and glued correctly using the right glue there should be no problem.Also 2x4's are known to expand and contract to a total of 1/2" if they have not been weathered and dried out.