Older 55G Reseal and Trim Questions

[riot]

Today I got a 15+ year old 55G tank from a family member and I was wondering about a few things. I tested the tank over the course of a week and it holds water without any leaks whatsoever. The silicone on the edges looks brand new but the silicone on the bottom will need some repair and I intend on doing this before using the tank. This tank does not have the trim we see on most tanks these days where the top is all one piece including the brace. The brace on this tank is glass and siliconed in. My question is, since the top trim is 4 different pieces, I can remove them without issue correct? Also, I want to remove the bottom trim as well. Does this sort of trim have any sort of load bearing function? Or can it be removed?

[reefling]

As tall as a 55g is, it may have be needed. In most cases the frame is to aid in the manufacturing process. I say take the trim off, leak test it. If the front and back pane bow, then make a center brace from stainless steel. And if there is no leak leave the silicon alone.