[BriDroid]

My 72 bow front is set up and running. I'm going to install my new filter with a spray bar. To keep the hoses a reasonable length, it would be better to run them out the end of the stand.

Could I take a hole saw and drill a hole in the end of my stand? I don't want to weaken the stand. Has anyone done this?

 

[Sake]

A hole the size you need for running tubing wouldn't weaken it that much, should be fine.

 

[Darkblade48]

I think it should be fine.

I have two holes on the back of my stand for my 90 gallon aquarium that are about 3 inches each in diameter.

 

[Mostro]

Ask whether it would be OK to drill a hole in a wall of your home for an outlet or switch. The surface planes of the wall, or in this case, the sides of your stand, are probably not load bearing.

The frame bears the bulk of the weight, so unless you are putting holes into the frame or removing a lot of material from the frame structure, you have nothing to fear. Even if the design of the stand is such that the end panels are load bearing, two 1" holes will not appreciably diminish its structural integrity. Drill away!

 

[lochaber]

Try putting some of that blue painter's tape over the area where you are going to drill, or if possible, clamp some thin sheets of 1/4" plywood to each side.

It should cut down on the splintering/chipping a little.