When I first got back in the hobby I first bought an inexpensive imported tank+hood+stand combo for my 45G.

After I moved everything out of it 2 nights ago to my new 55G (the stand for which is now registering as level), I saw a half-moon crack in the upper corner at the back, going from the side seam to the top fram, about 3" long.

What would you guys recommend from what I see as my options:

* Toss it in the recycling, you're done.
* OK to use it, just keep the water level below the crack.
* You actually can re-seal it safely with silicon on the surface.

Unlike some CH members, I don't feel my skills are up to trying to replace the one pane of glass.

Thanks for your advice!

Oh no! That really sucks!!

Is this a new crack or do you think it was there before and you just noticed it?

I don't know the answer to your question, but if it were mine, I know I would be afraid to put water in it at all. peek a boo

Hopefully, someone is out there who knows what would be your best option.

I only just now noticed it, but it could well have been there for as much as a few weeks, since it's kind of hidden behind the filter in the back. I don't remember banging the glass as I caught the fish and took out the rocks, but you never know.

It had just a little line of calcification descending from it, as if it had a very slight leak to it and a dash of water leaked out repeatedly over time.

Looking forward to getting input from some more experienced tank-crackers... I mean tank-keepers. Aura, I worry that you're right and this tank is done. Then I have to decide to buy another cheap one to match the stupid (cheap) custom stand or toss that too!

You gotta cry or ya gotta laugh and I choose to laugh.

Is the crack on a side panel or on the back panel of glass? Any pics? Sorry to hear about this Pseudo.

Replacing a pane isn't that difficult, especially if the tank is still fairly new! Just my two cents!

It's back panel, right at the very top, maybe 1" from the rim. It extends out about 3" as it gradually curves up to meet the top trim.

It kind of looks like someone tried to take a bite out of the top back corner of glass!

The fact that it's so close to the top is what's making me consider trying to repair it or living for now with a lower water level. In retrospect I should have bought a more standard aquarium (this is custom width, depth, stand, hood with built-in filter, etc.) but I didn't know better at the time.

I'm not sure what to tell you, I personally wouldn't fill it just because the glass has been compromised. I don't know if just slapping some silicone on it will make it 100% again. If it were me I would turn it into a terrarium or something. Sorry I can't be of much help. idunno

Thanks, CT... I'll see if I get any more inputs and decide. I really appreciate your reply.

Pseudo, this might be a good chance to try your hand at repairing a tank and replacing that panel. Easy for me to say, I know - I don't think I'd ever trust a repair job that I did, however.

You could also sell it for a little money back. There are people that would buy it as a fixer upper or as a home for a snake, lizard, or even a furry little rodent.

Here's what I decided to try, since the crack is so high on the back.

I carefully covered the area around the crack with duct tape to secure it.

I filled the tank to a level 1" below the crack, or about 2" lower than normal.

I'm going to let it run normally for a few days with no fish in it. If something goes wrong I'll drain it immediately.

If it's still OK after a few days, I'll go back to using it but still keep an eye on it.

Wish me luck!