I have a 2C cell maglight my dad gave me in the 90s. I recently installed a led bulb that replaced the incandescent bulb. I’m pleased with the light output but it flickers. If I smack the head it will return to full brightness but it’s very finicky. Is this a common issue? I didn’t have this problem with old bulb. This light means a lot to me so cost isn’t a issue to get it working well, maybe a better bulb ?
Try cleaning all contacts, including the ones in the battery compartment, with deoxit red. It might be oxidation on a metal surface that’s interfering with current flow, and smacking it moves the battery or something just enough to get good contact again.
Yep. Rear spring, tailcap threads, bulb-socket center, bulb-socket retaining-ring, positive-end contact, switch, etc.
Light sanding works best, but if stuff’s plated, scotch-brite should go first.
Oh, and the batteries themselves.
There’re 2 kinds of LED bulbs. Fat-base mag-only bulb, or thin-base “universal replacement” bulb (eg, Nite-Ize). The Mag is pricey, but simply fits better and has better thermal transfer. The universal might not be making good contact.
Check out Lumencraft
He has a bunch of Maglite upgrade products on his site and reviews on the tube. Look for Matt Smith on the tube.