Tank crack
- Thread starter reefLA1
- Start date
Since the crack is between two existing holes, it is highly unlikely it will spread any further. Aircraft designers learned the hard way many years ago with the early development of Jet aircraft (circa 1950's). Numerous British de Havilland Comets were lost due to metal fatigue cracks in the corners of square window cutouts. This is why all modern aircraft windows are now oval in shape.
Aquarium glass has very similar physical characteristics. Given the crack is in the bottom of your overflow box (I'm assuming) and thus subject to minimal stresses, you should be able to cut a "patch" of 1/4" acrylic (trace an exact pattern from the bottom of your tank) clean the bottom of overflow box thoroughly, and then silicone the two together (on INSIDE of box, not outside). Applying new bulkhead fittings will further bond the two together. If performed with good workmanship and patience there is no reason this tank couldn't live indefinitely. If on the other hand you don't have the necessary tools and/or skill set it may just be easier and less headache to replace. You didn't mention if this was an expensive Starfire tank or common fare. Good luck in either choice you make.
Kevin Adams
Aquarium glass has very similar physical characteristics. Given the crack is in the bottom of your overflow box (I'm assuming) and thus subject to minimal stresses, you should be able to cut a "patch" of 1/4" acrylic (trace an exact pattern from the bottom of your tank) clean the bottom of overflow box thoroughly, and then silicone the two together (on INSIDE of box, not outside). Applying new bulkhead fittings will further bond the two together. If performed with good workmanship and patience there is no reason this tank couldn't live indefinitely. If on the other hand you don't have the necessary tools and/or skill set it may just be easier and less headache to replace. You didn't mention if this was an expensive Starfire tank or common fare. Good luck in either choice you make.
Kevin Adams
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