I know, I know, I should do the research...

jazz

but you all have been a great help.

I recently acquired a 40 gallon tank and stand. It's filthy. I want to turn it into a salt water tank.

What's the best way to approach cleaning a very well used tank? I know I'll have to replace all the 'hardware' but I need to start with cleaning this tank. It has gravel at the bottom, should I try cleaning that or just replace it?

suggestions? links?

thanks!

chadf

I'd empty it out, including the gravel. I would recommend a sand/live sand substrate instead of the gravel. The gravel may give you nitrate problems.

When I got my tank I took it outside and filled it a little bit with a 50/50 vinegar/water solution. Then scrubbed it with an aquarium cleaning sponge. For tougher stuff like coralline a credit card works well. Afterwards rinse it out well a few times.