[DrewWoodside]

I wanted to have an open top tank, so I purchased 3 clip on lights. The only problem is the clip portion of the light can't slide all the way on and into position because the rim area is too thick.

My question is should I attempt to remove the tanks rim? Or possibly remove the rim of another tank then swap the contents? I currently have fish in the tank. I'm also thinking a possibility would be to take a razor blade and cut away the portion of the rim that is obstructing the clamp from sliding into place. I'm guessing this might be the safest option..

Any info or thoughts are appreciated. Thanks!

 

[hydrophyte]

I sure wouldn't do that.

 

[astrosag]

Grind that part of the plastic down...don't de-rim the entire thing.

You should be able to file that plastic down to fit the light fixture. Just be careful, don't remove the entire rim in that area and do not put a ton of downward pressure when trying to get that light fixture to snap on.

 

[tuffgong]

I removed the top rim of a 20g long with fish in it with no problems. I didn't even lower the water level. I used a utility knife and a flathead screwdriver. I got started by cutting a random chunk out of the front rim with the utility knife and then prying it up with the flathead gently. Make sure you have extra blades and you will be good to go.

 

[DogFish]

Grind that part of the plastic down...don't de-rim the entire thing.

BEST answer!

If you do try to de-rim it full of water, would mind posting it on You Tube...:icon_mrgr

 

[radioman]

Ya if you remove just that portion of the rim you are going to mess up the integrity of the whole rim. Definitely just grind down that portion but don/'t cut the whole thing off.

 

[DrewWoodside]

BEST answer!

If you do try to de-rim it full of water, would mind posting it on You Tube...:icon_mrgr

Yeah, I ultimately decided against any of that.. I really wanted an open top tank. I returned the 3 clip on lights and purchased a 75 watt floor lamp. It was on sale for 1/3 it's original price at Crate and Barrel I believe.

Thanks for all the answers!

 

[Abrium]

dude... all or nothing! Rip that rim right off! No but seriously don't do that.

I will admit though while I was trying to "adjust" one of my smaller tanks the rim popped right off and I haven't put it back on but I didn't really force it.

 

[WallaceGrover]

dude... all or nothing! Rip that rim right off! No but seriously don't do that.

I will admit though while I was trying to "adjust" one of my smaller tanks the rim popped right off and I haven't put it back on but I didn't really force it.

I will bet many people who have DIY rimless tanks are crazy envious...

 

[ValMM]

I was washing my 5 gallon in the tub once, the glue holding the rim softened and I was able to pry it off. I then put it back on, because I needed it for the lid.