Fenix PD35 only working with hi and strobe modes

Hank33 · 2019-11-22T21:08:46.000Z

Hi I’m a new member as of today :-). I have an old Fenix PD35. One day all modes except strobe and Hi works. Can I fix it or do I have to order a driver? Anyone know what’s going on with my flashlight? It’s been a good light to me for a long time so I’d like to make all modes work again.

Cheers

Lightbringer · 2019-11-22T21:59:41.000Z

If it nominally works except for certain modes (both high and strobe seem to be the brightest), it might be the driver, it might be the cell (ie, flashlight senses “low voltage” and steps down automatically), or it might be something else entirely.

Still, need more info. I just goggled the ’35, and momentary-on is high. What happens when you half-press it? Nothing goes on at all? Goes on just not “high”? Whut?

Thinking… if it uses a FET for highest modes only, that channel could’ve popped. All other modes (regulated) still work, just not FET-DD modes.

Ain’t got any Fenixen, so am just pulling ideas outta my bum.

jf_smm · 2019-11-22T22:12:35.000Z

If it’s not a weak battery Fenix will fix it or give you a replacement. They’re pretty good about that stuff from what I’ve seen.

Hank33 · 2019-11-22T22:32:39.000Z

I’m using CR123 Rechargebles I got around 6 yrs ago. I only used them a few days ago as they were in storage. I measured the cells and they put out around 3.2v after full charge. Also if i loosen the batt cap a bit half presses sometimes work and I get low or med. If I tighten the cap real tight then strobe and Hi works but not half presses.
About Fenix fixing or replacing, that’s good to hear and I’ll contact them and ask. They did send me a few free batt cap spring modules couple years ago.

Cheers

Lightbringer · 2019-11-22T22:56:09.000Z

Snug up all the retaining-rings you can find (driver, switch, etc.).

I’ve had lights go mental that just needed snug retaining rings, then worked fine after.

Oh yeah, clean all contact points (edge of the battery tube, etc.) with something mildly abrasive like polishing paper, scotchbrite, etc.

Hank33 · 2019-11-23T02:02:17.000Z

Yeah that’s what I got to do. I’ll get on it tonight. Besides I just ordered a Manker BLF A6 (4000k) from Manker directly so I have a backup too

FlashKat · 2019-11-23T02:39:54.000Z

Have you tried the Fenix PD35 with a 18650 battery.
You mentioned that you are using 2 rechargeable CR123 batteries.
Fenix specifies using CR123 lithium batteries, or a 18650 battery.
Rechargeable CR123 batteries are different.

jf_smm · 2019-11-23T04:44:17.000Z

FlashKat:

Have you tried the Fenix PD35 with a 18650 battery.
You mentioned that you are using 2 rechargeable CR123 batteries.
Fenix specifies using CR123 lithium batteries, or a 18650 battery.
Rechargeable CR123 batteries are different.

2 rechargeable CR123’s is too much voltage for stock Fenix tube lights. Try FlashKat’s advice first but that guy might be fried. I wouldn’t mention that to Fenix.

Hank33 · 2019-11-23T04:56:23.000Z

Actually my flashlight is a PD30 r2. Sorry for the misinformation. Thanks Lightbringer the flashlight is working fine now. I did a good clean and it’s back to normal.
About rechargeable CR123, do you mean different in that lithium CR123’s have double the current?

Cheers

jf_smm · 2019-11-23T05:03:39.000Z

Not double but a fully charged lithium ion battery is ~4 volts x 2 cells and that’s probably 2 volts more than your light is designed to use. Glad it’s working, feed it the right stuff going forward and it will serve you for years.

Hank33 · 2019-11-23T05:19:44.000Z

I have some Trustfire non rechargeables that I’ll try.

jf_smm · 2019-11-23T05:23:11.000Z

It’ll be happy with those. I have an old PD32 in my car that I use that way.

Lightbringer · 2019-11-23T06:38:40.000Z

Hank33:

Thanks Lightbringer the flashlight is working fine now. I did a good clean and it’s back to normal.

Kewl… enjoy!