Off 55g tank?

[Chrona]

I just got a 55g tank off craigslist for really cheap. It's a Perfecto. I didn't even realize it till I got home, but it doesn't have a center brace. Dimensions are about 48x13x19. Glass thickness seems really thick for a 55g - 3/8 inch, and all the seams/rims look good. It has held fish before obviously, and I'm assuming that the extra thickness of the glass will more than compensate for the lack of a brace....but just wanted to check. Thoughts?

What is standard glass thickness of a 55g btw? Could not find it online (besides DIY threads)

EDIT: "ODD" 55g tank. "Off"????? lol

[Drumachine09]

I just got a 55g tank off craigslist for really cheap. It's a Perfecto. I didn't even realize it till I got home, but it doesn't have a center brace. Dimensions are about 48x13x19. Glass thickness seems really thick for a 55g - 3/8 inch, and all the seams/rims look good. It has held fish before obviously, and I'm assuming that the extra thickness of the glass will more than compensate for the lack of a brace....but just wanted to check. Thoughts?

What is standard glass thickness of a 55g btw? Could not find it online (besides DIY threads)

EDIT: "ODD" 55g tank. "Off"????? lol

Mine is 1/4" thick with center brace.

[Chrona]

Ah, so I guess that extra 1/8 inch does it then. Scared me at first....lol

[Drumachine09]

Ah, so I guess that extra 1/8 inch does it then. Scared me at first....lol


You got 3/8" glass??? dang!

[Chrona]

Yeah, it doesn't have a center brace, so I guess they upped the thickness to prevent bowing/breaking.

[Lady Hobbs]

Years ago tanks didn't have the center brace so it could just be an old tank. Thickness should more than compensate for the brace, I'd think.

[Chrona]

Yeah, this tank looks pretty ancient. Seams are all good though (it appears). Will be water testing it tomorrow. I guess recent tanks all go with center brace + thin glass because it's cheaper. Goes to show that older stuff often is of higher quality ;)

[Lady Hobbs]

Sure does. Bet it was plenty heavy.

[Chrona]

Wasn't too bad actually. Had to carry it myself into the basement though. That was interesting ;)

[Lady Hobbs]

I guess you and I won't be wrestling.

[Chrona]

I guess you and I won't be wrestling.

Wooden spoon > me anyday :(

[Fishguy2727]

The older tanks are a lot heavier because of the thicker glass. With today's stronger glass (main reason it is thinner) the glass bows more, which is the main reason for the center braces, not necessarily the physical support.

[Chrona]

Ah, I see. Thanks for the heads up!