Grrr leaky new used tank can I use...

[a1wonder]

Hey I just purchased a new used 35 gal tank and figured I'd test it out before I do the real fill and placement and sure enough it leaks. I have caulking for bathtubs; can I use some of that on the underside of the glass? Aquarium silicon is very expensive here.

 

[stevie_h]

No m8 u cant use that it has a lot of additives and they are supposedly harmfull to the fish.

 

[JeremyD]

If you have a hardware store anywhere near you, you should be able to find some clear GE slicone I window and door. Make sure it is GE type I silicone (type II will kill your fishies) and make sure it does not have any anti-mold, anti-mildew additives. Otherwise, it should work fine.

 

[a1wonder]

Hellos, well I went out and got silicone before the last post was made is Silicone II really that bad? The deed is already done and I used it in the inside of an empty tank which still has to be cycled and rinsed a couple more times.

 

[my_fallen_angel]

i wouldnt use it.
i wouldnt take the chance of killing the fish

 

[thellama]

i dont know...

i wouldnt use anything that could hurt fish

 

[a1wonder]

Well it's been a few days and I've had water in the tank and tested the ammonia everyday (I'm not cycling it just making sure ammonia doesn't enter into the water). So far there doesn't seem to be problem when I talked to my LFS the mentioned that using it was alright as long as you gave it at least 24 hours before you put water in the tank. He said the most common mistakes is people drain the tank patch it up and refil given it no time to set (which is alright to do if your using aqurium silicon). I will let you know on futar update if a problem appears with toxins in the water but for right now I'm not worried anymore

 

[semper fi]

the silicone will not raise the toxins that you test for in a water test. the lfs was wrong when they said that was the most common mistake that people make. the silicone will not release the additives, they will always be there and can be fatal to your fish. you need to use 100 % silicone as previously mentioned.

to fix the problem you will need to empty the tank and with a razorblade cut away all the silicone on the seam, not just where you put the new silicone. with white vinegar clean the seam thoroughly and rinse about 4-5 times. repair the seam with 100% clear silicone. let the joint dry for 72 hours and rinse. the tank if properly sealed will then be able to be used.