There's always ways and means with a bit of bodgery - as long as there are exit holes big enough to get the end caps through (just over 1 inch diameter) it should work - may need some ingenuity to fix the clips for the tubes, but there'll be a way

EDIT: You can also boost the light further by fitting reflectors behind the tubes - Arcadia ones are easy to fit and work well on my 5ft.

I was thinking about making my own with tin foil or mirrors? If that would work?

Just bought the starter you linked to me Noodle and also bought two tubes with P&P I just blew £80!!!

Quote:

Yes it would - might be a little less efective than a pre-made one as they're shaped to provide the right spread while focussing the light somewhat towards the tank, but foil lining in the lid would definitely give it a boost.

Not so sure about mirrors though - foli would be easier to work with and safer (no glass!).

This is getting more expencive by the day ! have spent half the day looking for my filter thats gone walkie's since the house move

Also does anyone know a black substrate that won't effect my ph?

This is plastic coated so won't affect pH:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/MARINA-2KG- ... _Fish&hash=item255be44757

Unipac is also usually safe - 10kg packs here in assorted colours inc black:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Aquarium-Gr ... &var=&hash=item66720e682b

Just found the filter!

2kg would be enough for the tank do you think?

Probably. What are the width and length measurements?

Bodgery what a fine fishy word !

When it comes to DIY jobs "Bodgery" is my middle name