T5s and MH's over a 40gal

I am setting up a 40gal Breeder tank for a reef. I have two JBJ K-2 Vipers 150watt that i was planning on using to light the reef, but i just scored a Aqua Medic 4x39watt T5 fixture. Its 35 1/2 inches long and is 163watt.
Of course the first thought that came to mind was to use all three of the light fixtures. The T5 fixture has two different switches on. Each one controls two of the bulbs, which would allow you to control actinics and daylights. I was thinking that it would be super sweet to have the T5s actinics come on for a couple hours, than have the daylights come on so that the actinics and daylight T5s are on. Than for about 4-6 hours have the MH's kick on, simulating a "high noon" type light. Than have the MH's turn off, than the T5s daylights off, and then finally the T5 actincs off. This would be a total of 463watts over a 40gal DT. Thats like 11.5 watts per gallon:-X.
Would this be way to much light for the reef tank? If so which light/lights would you use? Maybe one MH fixture and the T5's????
How would you guys set it up?

 

Breeders are pretty shallow the T5HO will more than suffice. I would use one or the other. Maybe set up the Vipers so you can have a midday shimmer effect with the t5 off and out of the way.

 

Cool thanks 2in10 I am also stumped over the VHO T5 bulbs. Will these bulbs work in a regular T5 fixture without having to upgrade or boost the light? I cant seem to find any 34inch T5 bulbs anywhere, that arent T5 VHO? I have an AquaMedic 4x39watt fixture that takes 34inch bulbs?

 

It takes 36" bulbs. 36" bulbs are 34" long. The unit uses T5HO bulbs. T5V-HO will work in it also.

 

Really? that's weird. Are you sure cuz i have a power -glo 39watt spare bulb and it says is its 34" and it is 34" cuz i measured it. I just dont want to buy 4 bulbs that wont fit my fixture. and also are T5 HO or T5 VHO bulbs better?

 

Some say the length of the bulb and other the length of the fixture. They are all the same length as long as the wattage is the same. Just different on the comparison. VHO are designed to be over driven to a higher wattage and still have their normal life span. You don't need to over drive the bulbs in shallow tanks.

 

ok thanks