Cracked tank help

[dewey68]

We'll, I'm back at it again.  I got rid of my last tank several months ago but have been missing it ever since.  I just picked up a 180 with a cracked end panel for free.  I was wondering if anyone has replaced one before.  If you have, can you share some tips on doing it?  Thanks

[olliesshop]

I replaced a brace in my 125, which worked fine, but an end panel is a whole different story.  Although, I assume the process would essentially be the same.  I've attached two videos I made on the repair that may give you some insight.  Hope it helps.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bBU3hpMpRlU
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ut-rgeB-ge0

[Regalblue]

Cracked end panel meaning glass or the plastic?

[dewey68]

Sorry, I should have clarified that.  It's the glass.

[dewey68]

Well, after doing a bit of research, I'm going to attempt to replace glass.  My local glass supplier can get the piece for $65.  It looks like I'm going to have to remove the damaged piece as well as one of the long sections to do this right.

[danielratti]

Do a complete tear down on the tank all five panes and clean them well. Silicone does not like to stick to old silicone

[Regalblue]

Do a complete tear down on the tank all five panes and clean them well. Silicone does not like to stick to old silicone

x2
Otherwise you're gonna probably have to disassemble the tank in the future, might as well do it right the first time.

[olliesshop]

Well, after doing a bit of research, I'm going to attempt to replace glass.  My local glass supplier can get the piece for $65.  It looks like I'm going to have to remove the damaged piece as well as one of the long sections to do this right.

Good luck!

[olliesshop]

Do a complete tear down on the tank all five panes and clean them well. Silicone does not like to stick to old silicone

x2
Otherwise you're gonna probably have to disassemble the tank in the future, might as well do it right the first time.

Well it looks like I have a bunch of work ahead of me.  I just found the leak and it's about 2-3" from the top (pic below).  Now I'm trying to figure out how to take care of my fish while the tank is being repaired.  I'm thinking about getting a 2nd tank, since I probably should have one anyways ... but it have to be big enough to hold all 15 fish.  So it would have to be at least 30 gallons, right? (since they're all about 2" long).

[cranialdisturbance]

A 20L or 29 gallon tank would probably suffice,. 

[dewey68]

Thanks for the help.  As soon as it warms up a little more, I'm going to start pulling the tank apart.  Updates to follow.

dewey