Upgrading vs. modding a T5 Tek-light

[trilinearmipmap]

I've had an 8-bulb T5 Tek-light on my 120g mixed reef for several years. Overall I have been happy with the light. I've done easier SPS, Monti caps, Montipora digitata anywhere in the tank and they grow like weeds. Montipora confusa at the bottom of the tank grows OK. However the only other SPS I have tried, a horn coral, has barely grown in over a year. It looks like I will be gradually switching this tank over to an SPS dominated reef.

From what I've read the ATI Powermodule T5 lighting unit puts out much more light than the Tek-light does, chiefly because it uses fans to cool the bulbs and ballasts.

I was considering upgrading to the Powermodule, however before doing this, has anybody upgraded their Tek-light to include active cooling to try and match the output of the ATI Powermodule?

The Tek-light has slots in the top for passive convective air flow out of the top. I was thinking of enclosing this slotted area in a box and using fans to blow air out of the box, drawing air in from the bulbs and up over the ballasts and out the top.

Any advice on this or any input on whether upgrading to the ATI Powermodule will actually be a significant upgrade for me.

 

[nikon187]

the powmodule also has better reflectors then the tek (silver coated i believe)

 

[shag26272]

I put 4 fans in my TEK. I used 10mm thick fans , I think they were 10X40mm and the holes lined up with the slots and I just put small bolts and nuts through them. It would have better airflow if the slots were cut larger though. Sorry , no pics or comparison output tests. I did it mostly to keep my shield from warping.