To drill or not to drill

[Crabs McJones]

Another word of advice i'll add to the mix. If the tank is empty and you're doing all this to it, after you've drilled it, paint the back right away. I used Rustoleum Protective Enamel oil based flat black paint. Goes on great and pretty easy. And actually, even though its flat black, from the front because of the glass, it has a semi gloss finish.

 

[Greybeard]

Drilling a tank while partially full, especially a thin 55g tank, is _not_ something I'd risk. Maybe with a thicker glass... you'd be much less likely to crack it. Having a partially filled tank crack while you're drilling it would be the opening scene of a real nightmare.

I'd go and buy another 55g tank. They're not usually too hard to find used, and not all that expensive, even if you had to buy a new one. At the very least, completely empty the tank into holding tub(s). That way, if it does crack, you're not quite so far up the creek.

 

[Mark Derail]

Make sure it’s not tempered

Often it is only the bottom pane, however, how can you tell? If there's no sticker anywhere?
That's whats stopping me. Not knowing (used tank no stickers).

 

[5altkreep]

I would say hold off on drilling that tank and save up for a 75, of possible. 6" doesnt seem like much, but I think you'll really appreciate the space in the display, and I know you'll appreciate it under the stand.

 

[AZG]

I'm going off, Do You want to drill thru the side or bottom of the tank? I didn't know 55's were most likely tempered. The side panels also?

I'm prob gonna do the side. I have a feeling the bottom is tempered.

 

[cracker]

The overflow you choose will most likely have a template. As stated above,it's really not as hard or dangerous then Ya think.