MH help

[Kristy]

It appears one of our Vue Technology 250w se ballasts has gone out. We had a fairly new bulb in it (less than 2 months use) and it stopped working. When we switched out the bulb with our back-up bulb, it worked for a bit, but then not.

Anything we should do to test it further? Any other trouble shooting that we haven't thought of? Or any particular suggestions on where to shop for a good deal for a replacement?

Thanks!

[justahobby]

Hey Kristy (assuming since Mike says he puts a signature) I have an extra 250w ballast laying around if you need a loaner.

[JimD]

Which ballast is is, the blue one? Have a link?

[Kristy]

Justin, thanks so much for the generous offer! We'll let you know...

Jim, yes, it's the blue one. Here's a link:
http://www.coralvue.com/250metalb.html

-Kristy

[Kristy]

So I was going to switch ballasts left to right to confirm it is the ballast that is bad, but it appears there is no easy way to switch them. Do I have to take the ballast apart to be able to switch them out? It appears it is connected inside, so it is not as easy as just switching the plugs. Assuming it is the ballast and we need a new one, how do I switch them? Any guidance is appreciated- Mike

[JimD]

You cant just yank the three prong plug thats connected from your light to the bnallast and switch them???? You cant axcees then internals of that ballast, its sealed with a waterproofing 'tar' like gunk.... Regardless, I had that exact ballast go bad on me, I contacted CV and once they received the old one they shipped me a new one, problem solved and yes, the old ballast was bad so I wouldnt be surprized if yours is as well...

[Gseclipse02]

Might be a cap. Cheap easy fix ...u can always cut the wires 3 will be inside the one I might have a extra ballast not sure if it works but its free

[Kristy]

Well, it is now working today? Who knows, we shall keep an eye on it and see what happens. Thanks all for the guidance.- Mike

[justahobby]

Are the halide and UV connected on the same power strip, could it be the same electrical issue causing these problems

[kkiel02]

For future reference you ought to be able to pull out the three prong plug like mentioned above. I use the same ones.

[Bill S]

If you have a further problem, David at Vue is pretty good at taking care of things. Even when out of warranty, he will usually make you a good deal on a replacement.

[alton]

I second what Bill said. What ever you do do not unscrew the lamp while it is energized. (This goes for all Electronic Ballast)

[Kristy]

Ok, thanks for all the feedback from everyone. My theory is that we were pulling so many cords out of the cabinet that we somehow jiggled one of the connections of the MH. Mike is not convinced that this is the case and is concerned something more serious is going out on it.

But, either way, if we continue to have trouble with it, we will be looking to replace it, so the tip for contacting David at Vue is very helpful. These babies are way past warranty, so the idea that he might offer a good deal gives me hope!
-Kristy

[vman181]

I don't want to be the one to say bad things but........ If it wasn't from a cord coming loose, I would watch it close as there could be a short. If there is a short, it could be a fire hazard.