DIY MH pendent

[Joshua76]

once upon a time I read a post here that gave instructions on how to build a MH pendent using the cheap security lights from walmart or Home depot. can anyone please guide me to that post I can't seem to find it.

Thanks...Joshua

 

[smcdonn]

I kind of remember the post. The problem is that I believe they were just using those security lights for the ballast in them. Honestly if you want a cheap MH setup, Go to ebay and get a magnetic ballast and buy a mogul socket from one of the manufactures. Then cover something in some tinfoil and you have a light setup. Probably less than $50 to. Cheers

 

[madscientist]

They were using the $10 Halogen flood lights, replacing the bulb and ballast, and reusing the rest. Probalbly in the $50 range once it is done, but it will look nice and enclosed.

 

[mhj1580]

Yes they open and gut the flood light then they cut the center of the bracket holding the socket. Reinstall reflector and socket (after using a bulb to ensure socket is in correct placement (distance between ends)) reinstall UV glass and trim .remove back transformer. Wire a 70 watt electronic MH ballast to wires plug in and enjoy.

 

[RicGio]

This is using an HQI double ended bulb, right?

 

[mhj1580]

yes a 70 watt de MH bulb

 

[RicGio]

Can I jam a 250 watt HQI DE in there?

 

[mhj1580]

no they are a little to big I believe (not for sure though) The size of the standard Wal-Mart halogen "shop light" bulb and the 70 watt metal halide bulb are almost identical

 

[Coyle]

can someone post a link to the thread in question? i am curious to see this done.

 

[mhj1580]

here is a like to same thing at nano reef
http://www.nano-reef.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=91165&hl=pendant

 

[hahnmeister]

Yeah, that thing started at nano-reefs.com and made its way over here eventually. I made a few... but have since gone larger and sold them. They work well though.

 

[mhj1580]

yes and here is the link for doing a 150 watt
http://www.nano-reef.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=35351&hl=

 

[Coyle]

thanks for posting the links!

 

[mhj1580]

anytime