Looking for T-5 lighting before swap

[Tswifty]

I'm trying to find some stronger lighting before the swap. Currently I have a 4x54 watt PC unit running above my 55gallon stock/QT tank.

I installed a shelf yesterday about 5" from the surface, so if I decide to pick up any frags, they will be able to survive under the lighting, until my 90g tank is fully ready.

Here's the 90:

Anyway... I'm looking at bulb prices for the PC unit, and it's probably going to cost me around (if not more) than $100 for new bulbs...

Then I remembered that I have 2 unused T-5 SLR reflectors lying in my closet. So I'm looking for T-5 lighting and endcaps if anyone has any they are looking to sell.

Here's a pic of the 55g tank:

Thanks.

 

[oldreefer76]

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1362530

 

[DirtyHermit]

I also have a 8-54w fixture I'd part with, but I think you're looking for a ballast & endcaps, to go with your reflectors, correct?

I'd sell mine for $150, but it would cost $200 to put bulbs in it.

 

[Tswifty]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12267868#post12267868 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by DirtyHermit
I also have a 8-54w fixture I'd part with, but I think you're looking for a ballast & endcaps, to go with your reflectors, correct?

I'd sell mine for $150, but it would cost $200 to put bulbs in it.

well yeah sort of... haha...

right now I'm picturing a 2 bulb retro that I could DIY a casing for to sit above the shelf.

bulbs, endcaps/standoffs, and ballast is what I need.

I think the problem with a larger unit will be like you said... getting all the bulbs.

I'm trying to pull this off for $100 or less... because I could buy a new 2 bulb retro kit with everything for $160 from ReefGeek if needed.

 

[Tswifty]

I was able to pick up a ballast from a member on RC.

And bulbs and endcaps from saltycritter.

Whole setup ended up costing just under $100

Thanks everyone.

 

[USAquatics]

Swifty,

sorry to hijack. I saw your thread on the vendor log. Did you ever get things worked out with USPS?

 

[Tswifty]

Nope... but I did get my money back from the seller.

I turned in the claim, but the seller completely screwed everything up, and I doubt it is going to be awarded.

No question USPS completely destroyed the package, but the seller packed it with no padding, in a box to small, and sent it the cheapest mode possible (I paid them extra to ship it high priority).

I was pretty mad at the seller, because I specically paid them extra to avoid a situation like this. I've sold a bunch of stuff on here, and always send it USPS priority mail... never had a problem once.

I'm just glad I got my money back or it could've been a disaterous situation.

 

[sohal1025]

What about new bulbs only...I need to replace my t-5s and I remember seeing them really cheap on the net a long time ago but can't find them anymore.......Has anyone alse seen them for a good price????????

 

[Tswifty]

$21.95 at Salty Critter

http://www.saltycritter.com/lighting/t5-bulbs-uv-lighting.htm