How much can I trust this tank?

[Jon Fishman]

So here is what I know. Tank is 8’ x 2’ x 2’ and 1/2” thick glass. ‘Told’ the tank isn’t cracked all the way through.

Not my picture, as I haven’t gone to pick it up yet, but crack is on a lower corner.




So I know “Acrylic to glass” is not a preferred way to repair. I want to put mostly rocks (boulders really!) and about 10 inches of water in this. I realize even at only 10” of water, I’m looking at 100 gallons.

With the 1/2” thick glass should I try some sort of repair? Should I silicone and just go “as-is”? Anyone have any more creative ways to fix this?!?!

 

[Ron Reefman]

Unless this tank is free, why would you consider it?

Why are you only putting 10" of water in it?

I'd cut a piece of glass to fit inside the tank that covers the crark and some area away from the crack. Then use silicone or even 3M 5200 adhesive to attach it to the inside of the tank. I'd also seriously consider scratching or scuffing both the glass inside and the side of the patch glass that will be attached to the tank for better adhesion.

 

[X-37B]

Crack is over a seam so? How far under the trim does it go?
I would get a automotive crack repairman to seal it but depending on use you could silicone in a fake overflow so no water is in contact with the crack.

 

[Jon Fishman]

Tank isn’t free, but cheap enough. I am planning on using it for a reptile enclosure. I just need to secure it enough (assuming it may be fine as-is) to know it won’t completely fail on me with 10” of water in it.