So, got an email back from Bob from ProPanels. He said the 40 watt should be safe to mount into the top of the VE175 directly, offset about 6-8" inches from the side for an ideal gradient. Just in case anyone else wants to consider doing similar, so you know it's possible.
Not a tub fan but I may end up doing this because my husband and I are going to repticon next month and he said, and I quote, "Well now I am going to want something". Meaning he just "gave me full permission" to get another snake and I may need something setup fast
1.0 ♂ 2010 Spider BP 'Dante'
1.0 ♂ 2017 Bay of LA Rosy Boa 'Queso' 0.0.1 2017 Aru GTP 'Ganja'
1.0 ♂ Blue Tick Coonhound 'Blue' 1.0 ♂ 2018 Basset Hound 'Cooper'