Removing front braces/styles in DAS 140 stand

D

Double M

Hey all,

I am starting the process of cleaning and reinforcing the 140 DAS I got from Drew. I think this is going to be a great set up once I get it cleaned, stained, scratches buffed, stand floor reinforced, sump built...

I had a question about the stand. It is 64" long and has two front braces/styles that are pocket screwed into the top and bottom of the stand. I want to remove one (or both) to put the sump in while the tank is empty and then replace them: Do you think I could safely do this without compromising stand integrity?

Here's a pic:
[attachment=0]140 stand.GIF[/attachment]

I presume that there may be some weakening in the "bite" of the wood screws if I take them out and then return them after the sump goes in, but will it be sufficiently weakened to worry about? If so, what would be the best way to reinforce the stand to insure support?

Also, this stand has 4 "leveling" feet, should I remove them and let the stand sit directly on the padded and carpeted floor so that it is supported across its entire weight (thus spreading out the load) rather than channeling the load into 4 small pressure points?

Thanks for any input/advice!
 
with no water in the tank there is no prob with taking them off and putting it back. u might find the screws rusted and hard to take out. on the feet u could take them off but it was set up with them on and it didnt hurt it
 
Scott,

Thanks for your thoughts about removing the brace(s)...I was thinking they'd be fine to remove and replace with the empty tank atop, but always good to get other thoughts/confirmations.

The set up is pretty old (I think), so I'm still wondering if it might not be a bad idea to provide some kind of reinforcement of the stand (perhaps 2x4 "legs" on the inside corners of the stand), just for insurance; what do you all think?

Also, the floor of the stand (I'm guessing 1/2 to 3/4" finished plywood) is in pretty rough shape; is it better to try and remove the existing floor and replace or simply clean it up as best as possible and put a new plywood or mdf board over it? I'm concerned that removing it even though I'll be immediately replacing it would be unwise due to potential strain or racking of the stand.

As for the 4 leveling feet, any structural engineer or builder types out there that think it might be a good idea to remove them and put the stand directly on the floor or do you think they are likely good to go for years to come (they appear to be in good shape)?

Thanks,
 
jimm if you are worred about the bite of the screws when you put them back in just put a toothpick or a wooden match in the hole befor you put the screws back in and it will tighten thing right back up thats what i have always done ti get the screws to tighten back up hope that this helps
 
on the bottom it would be easier to cut piece of new plywood and put it in over old. then it would be to get the old out without damaging the rest of wood. u will have to make it in 2 pieces
 
I think I'm likely going to put new plywood (or MDF) on the floor of the stand (thanks, Scott).

Any other thoughts on reinforcing the stand with uprights (legs) in the interior corners?

What about the leveling feet?

As always, thanks for any advice/thoughts/rude remarks! :D
 
My 105 das had the braces screwed AND GLUED , so I found out. I had to use a coping saw to separate.
 
Do not use MDF....it will swell like a twinkie with the moisture. dont care how much paint or sealer, eventually it will swell. plywood all the way.
 
Thanks to everyone for your thoughts and input.

I'm still curious as to what people think about whether it might be beneficial to reinforce the stand and, if so, the best way to do so.

Also, does anyone have any thoughts on removing the leveling feet to have the stand better distribute the tank weight?

Thanks again! :D
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top