Cutting MH reflector?

[Mykayel]

I bought a 175 MH retro kit and didn't realize how big the reflector is. The reflector is 15.5" wide while my tank is only 12" wide.

My question is, would there be anything wrong with chopping off the extra that extends past the bulb so I could make it fit in a hood the same size as my tank?

 

[StupidsReef]

I don't see why not. Anybody else??

 

[ol'saltybastage]

i dont see a problem. use something like a cutting wheel so you dont warp the reflector.. i wouldnt use tin snips or it will get all bent out of shape

 

[latazyo]

isn't it flexible enough to just kind of "force" in?

 

[Mykayel]

Actually that was sorta my plan, make a cut along each or its bends and then bend it in 90 deg.

Also, are the bulbs a standard length? In other words, do I need to leave a little bit of room for incase I switch to a different brand bulb that is longer?

 

[rgpennell]

Stupid question here but why can't you rotate the unit so it will fit?

Rob

 

[Mykayel]

My understanding is that the way the reflector is designed, you need the bulb pupendicular to your tank, if you turn it 90 deg, it will be reflecting some of the light out of your tank.