I finally got a jigsaw (what a pleasure to use!) and found a little time to finish the light fixture. It's custom-built in oak to match the stand, with 175w halide, 18w PC actinic and 2 x .75w moonlights. I gutted a 2 x 9w Coralife fixture for the actinics, already had one moonlight and got a second moonlight and the halide ballasts, reflectors and socket used. No fans (will add if needed), but there's room for hot air to flow around the reflector and out the top vent. Pictures follow. Obviously I'll find a better way to hold it up--probably adjustable pegs in the ends. And I assume it will be mounted lower once the livestock acclimates. Looking forward to getting a clam now that I have enough light!
The tank is looking pretty good as it grows out a bit. I'll get some pictures when the lights are on. On the down side, my 3-year-old daughter is crying because I gave away our urchin (a few weeks ago) and she has now realized that he was her best friend. Ah well...
Guts
Exterior
Moonlights
Actinics
Halide
Full tank
Regards,
Nevin