Rework an Outer Orbit

[james.lightfoot]

I am buying a complete system that has been in place for about 3 years. It is 180 gallon w/ 2 overflows, a 30 gallon long sump, and Tunze 9020 skimmer. It also has an Outer Orbit light w/ 3-150w metal halides and 4-96w Actinics. My question is it possible/feasible to by the parts and rewire the 150w metalides for 250w metal halides? I am very good with electrical/control things. I have my 90 gallon tank mostly computerized (lighting, water levels, etc.). Any help will be gretly appreciated.

[crvz]

you'd need new ballasts and bulbs. The reflectors "should" still work, but it depends on the specifics. It may be cheaper to buy a new unit, but if you can find a good deal on compatible ballasts, you can swap it out.

[quader94]

hey welcome to TRT!


im not to sure on how to do that. i saw that people have swapped out the ballasts and everything

[firsthesitation]

The only difference on the Outer Orbits between the 150's and 250's is the ballasts. The reflectors and everything are the same but the 150's have an internal ballast for the halides and the T5's. The 250's are external so the only thing mounted inside the fixture is the T5 ballasts and the moonlights. I've never heard of anyone doing it but it should be feasible.

[Loverotties]

I think the sockets mite be different too.But Nick I think when he says 96w that is pc not T5.And if thats so,then I would also change the PC to T5HOs.

[firsthesitation]

Hrm, I didnt notice that. Yeah but then at that what you'll have invested in reflectors and endcaps and ballasts for T5's then he probly could buy a new fixture.

[Fat Tony]

Yes it is feasible. open the fixture, remove the old power cords feeding the ballasts for the MH and replace them with new cords that are compatible with new ballasts. Wire the new cords to new 250w sockets (you can use the old reflectors but the sockets are different) and remove the old ballasts. While it is apart you may want to add a couple more fans for cooling. My suggestion is to use a good quality electronic ballast like the Icecap ballasts. Make sure that you get a compatible cord for whatever ballast you are planning on purchasing. Mount the ballasts wherever you want them to be and plug the new cords into the new ballasts. Replace the bulbs with 250's and fire it up.