ok gang,here's the scoop....i plan to buy several Linear Flourescent Fixtures from a flea market...and to no suprise none are Functioning...some by Spoiled Lamps(Evident by heavy blackening of the tube)others most likely by Bad ballasts,starters,or even faulty wiring...i plan to fix them....but need advice on what brands of ballasts,lamps and starters to buy,and those to avoid,any help?

For ballasts get GE pre-heat ballasts- they give the blinks before startup, bulbs get sylvania or ge, and starters, well im not sure what is the best.

they still make Preheat Ballasts?

Preheat ballasts for 14-15-20W fluorescents are still made. You have probably seen many of these in my gallery.