Lighting ???

[zackp00]

Hey guys I was in my shop today and found a couple metal halide lights that are 400 watts and are big hanging units would these work ok for me to mount above my tank or would i need to get different bulbs or what ????

 

[sickboy]

You could use the fixture but will probably want bulbs made for a tank.

 

[zackp00]

what bulbs would you all suggest I get and where is the best place to look

 

[trouble93]

Can you add pics? Somebody could help more if we had a idea of what they are.

 

[zackp00]

not my actual lights but look just like it pretty much

here is the only pic i have off of mine bc i wanted the numbers so i could read up on it

 

[calbert0]

those fixtures are waaayyy to big unless you have a humongo tank and want to hang them from the ceiling... even then they look like a little much...
those look like industrial lights (I.E yellow light <=6500k)
if i were you i would try to remove the socket, wiring, and ballast.
Then re-wire it, and make your own reflector or purchase one.
then, buy bulbs that will fit your needs.... REEF TANK >= 10,000k

 

[jetskiking]

I agree you might could use the parts. The bulb is gonna be the wrong color. I have also personally done par readings on the industrial reflectors and believe me its not good.

 

[zackp00]

i got like 12 of these fixtures so I was going to just make me a custom hood and take the lights apart like you all suggested i don't want them big bulky things above my tank but i was just makin sure I had the right stuff to work with. Any of you all got any suggestions????? And my tank is a 120gal how many do I need??? I know I don't need 12 though LOL....

 

[calbert0]

2 should be fine. thats more than 7 watts per gallon.