tank brace

[marcusg17]

I have a 180 gal tank that has two standard plastic braces on the top to hold the glass lids. I would like to cut out the plastic braces. Will that create a structural damage to the tank?

I have two MH lamps placed over the two braces that causes unwanted shadows in the tank that I want to eliminate. My guess is that it is just plastic surounding the top of the tank that in wont cause damage but I would like to make sure.


Thanks

[Coralfreak]

I would advise not to remove them, they are "braces" and are there for a reason.

[marcusg17]

thanks coralfreak I did this to a 55 gal a few years ago and have seen no problems. I'm just unsure if this is a wise choice with a 180 gal. Has anyone done this?