tank dismantle and glass cutting

Delphinus · #1 07-16-2009, 06:44 PM

I find cutting old glass is hopelessly hit and miss, and mostly miss at that. Only ever gotten a predictable break line when the glass was perfectly (and I mean PERFECTLY) clean.

If it were me, I'd replace the bottom panel and adjust the stand size. I hate cutting glass. Dez has a golden horseshoe up his rear (sorry man but it's true) and things just "work" for him, if you're like me and basically on the complete other end of the luck spectrum, my suggestion is don't waste your time, you could wind up losing the whole tank.

Good luck whatever you decide, and have fun with it.

reefnut · #2 07-16-2009, 07:26 PM

great advice thanks guys.ive got the tank apart now.used a razor and a .003" feeler gauge(destroyed the gauge but its apart)i hear ya on adjusting the stand and not the tank but that would mean stand,canopy overhaul as i would not be happy with the xtra overhang.my neww problem is that the entire tank is built with 3/8.the extra piece that was glued over the cracked bottom is only 1/4.originally i wanted to use the extra bottom to replace the cracked one as i was told it was at least 3/8.the bottom is non floating and sits flat on the stand wothout any trim.the ends and sides sit on top of the bottom.ya think 1/4 inch is enough if the overal measurements will be 40-42"long,20"inches high and 20 inches deep?sitting on a solid level surface.

Delphinus · #3 07-16-2009, 09:13 PM

I wouldn't use 1/4" for the bottom on that size.

lastlight · #4 07-16-2009, 09:31 PM

1/4" is bad enough on small tanks. I'd def get thicker.

reefnut · #5 07-16-2009, 10:53 PM

so 3/8 should be good though right?

Dez · #6 07-17-2009, 04:27 AM

Have you figured out what you are going to do with the tank yet? Keep us updated.

Dez

reefnut · #7 07-23-2009, 05:56 AM

well i managed to cut one piece and broke the other.after a trip to the local glass shop im ready to start putting this thing together.toatl measurements are 38"l x 20"h x 22"d.rough capacity is around 70 gal ish.two more question though,1.what is the best silicone to use?so far im planning on GE Silicone 1 100% silicone rubber,thoughts or suggestions please.2.im going to keep the joints as clean as possible and dont plan on any bracing at all, just the glass box, any thoughts on this?the original tank was 8" longer and had absolutley no bracing.the trim was mitered at each corner.thanks.

reefnut · #8 07-23-2009, 07:16 AM

i was just reading another forum and have yet another question about this tank.it is a flat bottom.the botton pane si sitting on the stand and the side are butted up to it all around.how should i sit it.directly on the wood or with a piece of foam between tank and stand?

BlueAbyss · #9 07-23-2009, 09:19 PM

I would place a thin piece of neoprene foam between the bottom of the tank and the stand... less chance of cracking the bottom pane from uneven 2x4s or whatever.

ALBERTA REEF · #10 09-14-2009, 06:41 AM

I have found waxed dental floss (flavoured or not) works great. First remove all the inside and outside silicone (I will pile up and cause the floss to brake). start with the one panel at a time. I like to start with the small side panels. Slowly work the floss through. Keep running the flos through like doing your teeth. ever so often might have to clean the wax out. the floss will brake alot but once you fine the feel for it it cut eazy. Half way down the cut go to the opposite panel do the same. Then you can use a razor blade to slightly wedge the panels. Then continue with the seams. Once the one panel seams are completely cut then carefull rock that panel back and forth. While rocking you can run a razor blade or zip knife alone the seal. then repeat with the other panels. Keep in mined patience it will come apart. One note wear glove just in case. Good luck.