I would like to keep this light working. 'C' are not used much here. So" 3 x Rechargeable's or Adaptor's for AA? I keep a new Fenix 2 x AA, 4 levels of light by my bed. this Mag-light had history and I want it working. So which way is most practical? lot's of AA rechargeable's in use here. thanks guys
If it's just for occasional use (and sentimental reasons), I would probably go with AA to C adapters. The capacity of the AA cells will be less, so you'll have to change them out more often, but it sounds like you are already recharging AA's on a regular basis so no big deal there. I have quite a few modern (more efficient) lights, but I still use my Mini-Maglite AA from time to time...just because.
AA to C adapters are readily available online and not very expensive. Are you keeping the standard bulb in the light or looking for an LED drop-in? There are a few PR base LED drop-ins that will work. Nite-Ize has a 55 or 75 lumen that are around $8 and $15 respectively. Terralux has the TLE-6EXB for around $17 that has a higher output. Malkoff has a 3-6C upgrade that is brighter and more substantial if your willing to spend a little money.
Malkoff got back to me, my light is too old. I think I did put a Nite-Ize in it years ago. will look into Terralux, thanks!
I did try a terralux, but it did not work/fit, years ago from battery junction. again, too old of a light. thinking it might be more like the late 1970's.
Yeah, 'C' cells seem to be on the way out. Although I still find them. Have you tried places like Home Depot? I have a 3 x C MagLite in the car which is only occasionally used. Haven't had to replace cells for a LONG time -- couple years at least. Yes, I check every lite in the house and the car a couple of times a year both to see they're working and to be sure leakage hasn't occurred! L'chaim! Moshe ben David
How long ago did you try the Terralux? The earlier Terralux drop-ins had a heatsink that threaded onto the bulb socket. The newer TLE-6EXB is a direct bulb replacement that fits in the socket. The Terralux is wider than a typical PR base bulb so if the older Mag has a smaller bulb socket than later Mags that would cause a problem.
Tried the Terralux about a year ago, can't seem to find them in the house. I grabbed a ebay LED, 4-24v for my Craftsman 19.2v light and my 3 x D Maglite clone, both work fine. LED didn't want to work in this C cell.
Well if all the LED options are a no-go you can still try over-driving a 2 cell bulb for a little more output. The downside of the incan bulb is that battery life is much shorter. Not sure if 3 AA rechargeables would do very well as their capacity is pretty limited compared to the draw of an incan bulb. I would suggest picking up some alkaline C cells if I didn't think they would leak and ruin your light, but my experience with alkalines has proven otherwise.
I have more than a few AA rechargeables from other things in the house. that is what I am using in my Fenix E20. (I remember working a job with access to bulbs. Over-driving was fun back then with a 2 x D flashlight.) this is just a minor project, and I have 1/2" PVC pipe here.
Finally cut down a piece of 1/2" PVC sprinkler pipe. works great. what! AA is a tad longer.? got it working. project done
