72 Gallon Bow-front Emergency?

[PaleBluePoet]

Hi there. I'm new to this forum. Used to mostly hang out at the TFH Forum in the past. I've got a question regarding my 72-gallon Bow Front tank.

The other day, I heard a loud snap sound from the tank and turned around in a panic, thinking I was about to see 72 gallons spill all over my condo floor. Lucky for me that didn't happen and a quick inspection showed nothing obviously wrong with the tank. This morning while feeding the fish, I noticed that my center strut (the plastic piece that divides that tank in two from front to back) had completely broken. I immediately freaked. I have no idea whether or not this is simply a piece there for the convenience of placing the glass(s) on top of the tank or if it actually provides stability to the tank itself.

I asked my buddy and he said he didn't really think so and that if it did provide stability, it had to be a very small amount, since the piece is historically very flimsy and weak.

So then I called my fav indie fish store. Talking to someone I respect a great deal, she also said no, it doesn't play a big part in the stability of the tank (pointing out that the piece that goes all the way around the tank is the important one.

I can't find the manufacturer to ask them (and they'd probably tell me I need a new tank even if I didn't!!). The tank is only two years old and VERY well maintained.

Anyone have experience with or happen to know the answer to this question.... Is my tank stable without that strut? Thanks much. Good to be here!!

 

[*Fishkies*]

First off hello and !!

I would have concern as to that piece being broken. As I have a 55 US gallon aquarium and on the warning label at the top of that divider it says that if that is broken you should not use the tank. That helps to keep the tank supported from front wall to back wall. Also if you use that aquarium with the divider broken any warrenties you have inf any will not cover your tank.

 

[dane261]

if its broke its broke with a reason so there is a concern as this is a big support for your tank and its been under a lot of stress to snap you are best off getting some one to put a new support/divder on your tank to make it safer then go in to the good old fault finding stuff and find out why its snapped as it may do it again but next time you might not be lucky

 

[Tolak]

I have a 72 bow that had the same thing happen. The previous owner took the lazy way out & moved it with gravel, a couple inches of water, and fish. Thay support is a structural member, it keeps the glass from bowing out. A new top frame costs around $40, you do not need a new tank. The hard part is replacing it, it's a couple hours work to get the old one off.

Check out post #15 in this topic; http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?showtopic=182491&hl=

 

[Mikaila31]

Yeah, same thing happened to my old 55gal, before we knew anything about tanks. We left it like that for at least 5 years, then we finally replaced the whole tank. The glass was so warped that there was a good inch between the two ends of the support .

 

[lawrie]

i think it snapped for a reason. maybe it doesnt play a big part in the supporting the tank but these things dont just happen. i would have a mop and bucket at the ready!