Removing center brace from 36'' long stand

[Zack]

Earlier today I decided to remove the center brace on my 36'' long stand to make sump maintenance easier. I added 4 long 2x4s one in each corner that will end up being flush with the tank and rest on the bottom of the stand. If I add a piece of wood that drills into the 2x4's so that the entire weight of the tank is supported by the wood would this be enough to hold up the tank? Tank is a 40 breeder. If not, what would be the best way to go about this

[Zack]

I left the center brace on the back intact

[Zack]

Anyone? I want to get this project done asap

[Sherita]

I'm having trouble picturing what you are doing with the 2 x 4's. If you are putting uprights in each corner, and then a 2 x 4 across the front (this would need to be a double header), then yes, your tank will be supported. My 40br, has no center brace, just 2x4's at the corners with double 2x4's across the front, firmly screwed into the "legs" at each corner.

[Zack]

Can I see a pic? For some reason my camera's card is not registering on my computer and this sounds like it would work perfectly.

[Zack]

I'm trying to visualize this, does each corner have 2 vertical 2x4s making an L and then one 2x4 running horizontally the length of the tank connecting the front legs and a second 2x4 covering the 2 back "L"s.

[Zack]

Here's what I have right now. Back left 2x4 is too short and will be re-cut. I'm thinking of shortening all of the peices of wood to allow horizontal 2x4's to be drilled in. Do I screw these in along the length of the tank or only at the ends? And by double header do you mean 2 cuts exactly the same length per long horizontal side?

Can you show me the orientation of the 2x4's screwed into the legs at each corner?

[alton]

I would install a 1 x 2 oak board horizontally on the front and the back if you are concerned. I don't think the 2 x 4s are necessary. If you you had a 70 gallon maybe, but with a 40 you should be fine. Think about it, there is not a center brace on the front is there?

[Zack]

If I did that then I couldn't get to my sump? And the tank itself has no center brace but the stand did.