so im kindof curious, could i convert my rapid start fluoro fixture to a preheat while keeping the same ballast? (like disconnect one of the pins on each side and install a starter) this is just a question out of curiosity, no solid plan on doing this

Do we know what the ballast short circuit current is ?

Assuming it won't be damaged from a momentary short circuit (i dont think there is any risk, but correct me if im wrong), You can measure - connect an Ampermeter between 1 wire from each end

If the current is acceptable for the lamp cathodes - i think anything between 500..800mA would be ok.... it can be wired with a starter

Keep an eye on it for EOLs, i dont think an RS ballast would like to work in short circuit mode for any extended time though

I will test it.. with my meter