Few Ballast Questions

I have a few ballast questions for the experts out there.

Here is my setup/situation:
I am now using a dual 250w PFO ballast(the older kind, big bulky thing) running my 250w bulbs that are single ended.

I bought a used Current 3x250w light real cheap and it has 3 external ballasts. The 250w bulbs in this are DE's.

Here come the questions:
1. Can I cut the wires on the Current light setup with the 3 external ballast and then cut the wires on my PFO ballast and wire them with the PFO ballast instead of the no name external ones?

2. If you dont think I can do that, can I buy a few IceCap ballasts and then wire them to the Current light by twisting the appropriate wires together?

I can take pictures if you need to see anything....
Just need some help, I would really like to change these older style ballasts, they make a lot of noise too with the built in fans also.

Thanks!

 

What are the model numbers of both ballasts??

It can be done, but one model may not run the bulbs you are looking to use.

 

I agree you need with jonjon on matching the ballast to the bulb. I believe you need to match wattages and which end type they are for.

The Ice Cap purchase would work as long as you get a ballast for DE bulbs.

 

Ok so no PFO ballasts....I doubt they will work based on your opinions...Its older and I think its meant for SE bulbs.

I have a geissman ballast/light setup just sitting in my basement(really nice 250w setup). I am going to use that for one and then pick up two more either IceCap's or Lumatek's.

 

I vote Lumatek.... I love mine. Will upgrade my other PFO to it eventually.

 

My old PFO ballasts are running 250w MH SE now.
I heard somewhere that they can run both SE and DE....is this true?

How can I find out if my PFO ballast can run DE bulbs? Is there a way?

Also what would happen if I hooked it up...would it just not fire them up or is there some other risks?

 

Do you have a model number for the ballast?

Risks: Not firing, Under-driving bulb, shortened bulb life.

No harm to ballast if it doesn't work.

 

On the sticker of the PFO Ballast it says Model# HQ2 250 MH

Does that tell you anything good or bad?

 

250 tells you the wattage don't know about the HQ2

 

Yea....what the heck is HQ2???
Could they meant to have written HQI you think?

I am running 250 SE MH's now with it, without any problems.