Help!, I cracked my tank

[abcha0s]

I wouldn't call myself an expert, but it seems to me that the cost of repairing a glass pane on a 55g is going to be very close to the cost of buying a new 55g tank. You will also need to have your tank completely empty for several days to get the repair done.

If you do decide to repair this, keep in mind that new silicone does not bind to old silicone. For this to be structurally sound, you have to make sure that you completely strip all of the silicone when you remove the pannel. Even a trace of old silicone will weaken the structure.

While I have never done it, my concern with this approach has always been the corners. At some point, the old and new silicone has to touch. I guess if it's not a structural joint where they meet you should be ok.

If you browse the web, those who really are experts often suggest that you have to completely break down and strip all of the panes and rebuild the tank from scratch.

No doubt there are shortcuts, but on a 55g I think I would be shopping for a new one.

Sorry.