Leaking Metaframe

[stpierce]

I was getting ready to go with my 10 gallon metaframe, I had cleaned it, resealed it with GE silicone II and decided it might be good to test it for leaks and of course it leaks. I put a heater in it for a couple days to see if the old metaframe tar would seal it up for me with the heat, no such luck. Are there any other tricks I can try other than cut all the silicone out and try again?

[sskruzr]

Depends on where it's leaking. If it's leaking on the bottom, I've turned the tank upside down, heated the metal frame on the bottom with a paint heat gun, then turned it back over and stepped in it. Yes, stepped. It put enough pressure on it to seal it back up. One other thing, when I silicone the bottom to the sides, I sand the slate with a sander to rough it up. If it on the side, did you silicone the entire seam.

[stpierce]

I think it may be leaking on the bottom. Not 100% sure but that seems to be where the water is coming out. If it fits would I be making a mistake to put it in the oven at 200 degrees for a while to heat it up? I don't really have a lot of other sources to get it warm other than turn the gas logs on and set it close to them.

[sskruzr]

I don't know about putting it in the oven. I've heard of it but never tried it. Is this your house or someone else's? Good luck.

[stpierce]

It's my house, and by my house I mean my landlords house. I did some more looking and I think I may be leaking from one of the sides. I still have plenty of extra silicone and a Rangers world series game to watch tonight, I'll just reseal it during the game.

[stpierce]

Resealed the tank, let it dry for a couple days then filled it with water for a couple more. All looked well until I drained it and picked it up. Looks like I have a very small leak somewhere. I think I may try to borrow a hair dryer and warm things up. It's so close to being a good seal that I have some hope this time at least.