Im just thinking ahead for a future Maglite build/mod. I have a 3D maglite.
I could be flexible about series vs parallel but im thinking 2/3AA batteries in parallel would be the best and stick with less than 4.5A to one LED. Maybe use stock button.
3x3AA in parallel would be my preferred option!
Problem is the adapters I have found seems to be crappy or either only support 2 batteries. (Found the options by searching this forum or general online search)
3xAA series adapter (low current) 2.01$
(could maybe be suitable as it is? But then I would need to use a driver that could not fit normal D-cell batteries… And it would limit my driver choises)
I have seen some nicer builds on CPF, but they are a bit pricey. International shipping does not help. And some of the nicer ones are not made anymore.
I could try to build some myself. Maybe just modify the ones from KD (to parallel) , switch out a spring and see if they are good enough…
Maybe rebuild with some copper stuff Old-Lumens style… Would easily become time consuming, and maybe a bit pricey if done properly.
Time I would rather spend on the flashlight itself than the battery carrier…
they are serial, but very easy to convert to parallel if you have a soldering iron (like < 5 minutes per carrier, no additional parts required)
I also added copper braid to the connection plates on mine when I converted them, and even though I didn’t change the stock springs they’ll do decent current (because the springs basically totally compress with cells loaded)
Those are my 2nd option in OP / 5th option.
So you think those flimsy alu springs and parts are good enough for the project im thinking of (4A+ to emitter)?
In what setup are you using them like that?
I have used them in a 3xD light (tractor supply) that is heavily modified - xml direct bond to copper rod, east-092 driver
I only used them for a few times and decided to get some tenergy Ds. From memory, I think I got just below 4A with panasonic 1600mah nimh batteries (3s3p).
I removed a lot of resistance from the light with copper braid on the leads that come out of each end of the side switch, and in the tail spring - and I also soldered copper braid across the (plated steel?) plates on the battery carriers. As a reference, the tenergy Ds do nearly 6A when charged.
I also used big leads to the emitter (like 18ga, which made them sooo tough to solder directly to the top pads).
So - I think the amps would depend on the emitter Vf (ie, not with xml2), and the rest of the light - but you might get 4A+ with eneloops.
If you really wanted to go to better springs you’d have to buy shorter ones (since the stock springs are thin wire) but that wouldn’t add much to the cost if you get the size right the first time…
I don’t think you could add copper braid to the stock springs - the batteries wouldn’t fit in the carrier.
texaspyro
dthrckt
Really useful info!
I think Ill have to try the ones from KD and just modify them. Seems quite easy to modify them. I would be happy with a 4A.
( but its always nice to have parts that could deal with more… )
So IF i should decide to buy some copper sheet, ill make sure to buy a much more suitable thickness!
Thanks to both of you!
I have 3 of the 3xAA series from KD. I’m using them all in series on a triple XML mag. Using “Duraloops” I have no problem getting the 2.8A the driver calls for. I think the low amp/resistance warning on the site was geared towards incans that draw ridiculous current.
I ordered 10 adapters so I could have 3 sets for my Rayovac Sportsman lanterns - cost was $16.90 - so about $1.70/ea. The ones I received look a little different from the ones in the KD pictures but similar quality.
The plastic structure is pretty solid and eneloops fit nice and snug. The electrical contacts and springs do work but they are not soldered are not suitable for critical applications - which is not a problem for me.
Major bonus is that its trivial to convert these from Serial to Parallel without tools or soldering - just unclip the contacts, move the spring to the bottom, and put a bit of conductive material inside at the top and bottom before clipping it back together. I used some folded up household aluminum foil (thin copper plate would be better of course).
Or, rather than using adaptors like everyone else, you could just go here . In the end, this option is cheaper, has higher capacity, and has MUCH lower resistance. Seriously, these things will run a ROP light in a 6D Mag without even getting the least bit warm! (That’s around 4-5 amps!)
By the way, don’t worry about the ‘regular price’ here. They seem to like to post this higher price to make it look like the item is on sale so you will buy it ASAP.
The 3 AA to D parallel adapters linked to by spaceboy above are also now listed on eBay USA. Per the photos identical items so far as I can tell. Springs are soldered to the - end plate. End plates are plated steel. Plastic bodies appear to be quite substantial so they appear to be a reasonable buy. I will be trying them in my Fenix TK50 and possibly in a TK60 if I get one or in my 4D Maglite I am thinking of upgrading.
I ordered them in yellow plastic for 10 for $23 including shipping from China. Arrived today 5/27 including the delay due to Memorial day weekend. Ordered 12 days ago. The same seller also lists them in other plastic colors. eBay store number RONG6112
If you search his eBay store he also has 4 AAA to C cell adapters and 3 18650 in parallel cell holders along with other battery adapters and holders. Provide some interesting options.
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