used vs. new tank

[RTV]

ok- found used 125 gal tank & stand in paper today for $450- talked to them and found out it is 6 yrs old- comes with stand and lights- no hood- said nothing wrong with it but, might want to run a bead of silicone around just as a precaution.

So....first does this sound like a pretty good deal? If so, what questions should I ask? I know it has no hood and lights will require new bulbs- it was previously a fw setup - not drilled.

My plan is for FOWLR setup- any and all input will be appreciated.

 

[cmor1701d]

First, make sure it holds water.
Was any medication ever used in the tank?
If so, what? Be carefull if copper was used as an Ich treatment in the tank.
I beleive with a thorough cleaning you shoudl be good to go.

Congrats on the find.

 

[inspire0522]

i have a 140gal FW thats 25 years old!! Next time it goes down i will be redoing the silicone ( have no idea if it has ever been redone ). Sweet find RTV good luck.

 

[RTV]

I went to look at this tank today- he previously kept an alligator and some turtles in it! Should I be concerned about this? He said it holds water but, he hasn't had anything in it for about 2 years- said the turtles nipped a little at the silicone and although it does hold water, he suggested running a bead of silicone around the edges.

Just wondering if the previous tank inhabitant should be a concern? He had 2 other fw tanks up and running-both looked to be in good shape.

 

[BillD]

It is highly unlikely that there is a problem, other than the price. However, don't add silicone to existing silicone, it will not stick properly. Six years is not long for a tank.