center brace

Corey · #1 11-30-2004, 07:38 PM

I was thinking about setting up a 250 watt MH fixture in my 60gal. I want to try one bulb first to see if thats enough lite, and then maybe go to two. The problem is I have a center brace(glass) I dont have a problem with the PC light shining through, but if I hang a MH over it will that hinder it?

Son Of Skyline · #2 11-30-2004, 08:39 PM

How long is the tank?

Corey · #3 11-30-2004, 08:49 PM

48 inches

Son Of Skyline · #4 12-01-2004, 04:33 AM

I had a centre brace on my 120gal which is also 48" long and it did affect light spread. I'm sure you can give a single bulb a shot but i think you'll find that the brace will get in the way. I'm also pretty sure that a single MH bulb won't spread enough to light a 48" tank, unless you want it to be dark on either side.

Corey · #5 12-01-2004, 05:05 AM

yeah I know it wont light the whole tank but I was thinking about vhos too.

Son Of Skyline · #6 12-01-2004, 05:35 AM

As with most things in this hobby, you'll never know what works for you unless you try! So if you want to try the single bulb, go for it...and then tell us if it works or not

Corey · #7 12-01-2004, 06:42 PM

do you think the brace could safely be removed?

al555 · #8 12-01-2004, 07:05 PM

im running a single 250w MH light on a 80gal thats 48inches with glass center brace.

but i got it pretty low to the tank, but its ok.....in the corners you dont get fantastic lighting...but thats fine with me.

i run glass tops so, its not too bad as long as you keep the tops clean from salt creep.

Al.

Son Of Skyline · #9 12-01-2004, 08:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Corey

do you think the brace could safely be removed?

That I wouldn't know. Can anybody else give some info here?

Skimmerking · #10 12-01-2004, 11:25 PM

well what it is worth a ran a 400 w 6500k on my 280 and with a center brace and it didnt effect it what so ever.

you can try and add a 1 on each sde of the tank and break off the center brace if ya want too.
I going to be running 1x250 over my 36" tank 36x20x20 and if i can will have no brace ,but probably run in to putting a brace at each corner out around 6" out from the sides or 8" out.

mike