.

Robin_Dobbie · 2019-05-05T10:42:23.000Z

.

Wrathbringer27 · 2019-05-05T16:00:10.000Z

… Why?

djozz · 2019-05-05T18:05:02.000Z

One reason is that a broken sk68 switch is non-servicable. And how to solve that is a matter of styling

M3CSL · 2019-05-05T18:19:54.000Z

Until you posted this I actually assumed every part of these clones could be replaced!

djozz · 2019-05-05T18:31:57.000Z

The parts inside the sk68 switch are tightly press-fit, not made to disassemble, if you manage to open it usually something breaks, and even if you manage to not break anything it will not re-assemble well again.

nofearek9 · 2019-05-05T18:36:15.000Z

nice:)

M3CSL · 2019-05-05T18:49:23.000Z

djozz:

The parts inside the sk68 switch are tightly press-fit, not made to disassemble, if you manage to open it usually something breaks, and even if you manage to not break anything it will not re-assemble well again.

I am too much of a noob to know this - but maybe someone else does:
Which light was “the original” SK68, if there was one in existence? Was it better or as bad as the clones? Better to mod / worse - and can the “real deal” be purchased somewhere?

Firelight2 · 2019-05-05T18:56:43.000Z

SK68 switches are replaceable. You can buy the switch modules, including the switch and a fresh plastic retaining ring and washer for them. I have a bag of replacements at home.

Kaidomain sells them. Unfortunately the link has an underscore in it and if I try cutting and pasting only half the link appears. But it’s on page 2 of their reverse clicky switch section.

That said. Not everyone wants to spend $2.48 on spare parts for a $5 flashlight, so OP’s solution works.

Lightbringer · 2019-05-05T19:55:30.000Z

This?

https://tinyurl.com/y6xjqu3t

Firelight2 · 2019-05-05T20:05:24.000Z

yup that one.

hank · 2019-05-05T20:40:07.000Z

There was never an original SK68.

Some guy bought a surplus batch of automotive shock absorber cases and miscellaneous flashlight part and stuck them all together.

</tongue in cheek>

FmC · 2019-05-05T21:17:09.000Z

Nice work! What thread pitch did you use for the lower wood section?

TrueRMS · 2019-05-05T21:44:04.000Z

M3CSL:

Which light was “the original” SK68, if there was one in existence?

The Nitecore Extreme is what the SK68 body is a knock-off of, the Nitecore however is a reflector based light so not a true clone.

Firelight2 · 2019-05-05T23:10:20.000Z

Robin Dobbie:

Oooh, they DO have replacement switches?! And free shipping. Well alrighty I just bought some. Assuming I can dig out the original switch without jacking up the silicone cover. At 5 switches for $2.50 it makes sense to me replace a switch, ’long as something else doesn’t burn out immediately.

In my searches and video watching, it’s been suggested that Sipik is the original. But I don’t know. And whether or not it’s any better I don’t know, either.

The bolt is #10-24. I think 1/4-20 could be used if hardwood ply was also used. Smaller bolts with finer threads would probably not be a good idea due to the ease of denting the battery with even #10 bolts. But I suppose it doesn’t matter if switches are available. Then again, it’s fun to exercise your inner MacGyver!

My recollection is Kaidomain also has compatible rubber boot covers. If you’re ordering switches from them might want to get some spare boots while you’re at it.

ChrisGarrett · 2019-05-06T00:36:21.000Z

Ehhh, I got my sister to buy four of them 3+ years back, just to have. They were about $20 shipped from China and while I was back visiting, one wouldn’t consistently fire up, since the tube had an alkaleak leak. I tried sanding things down, but no dice.

I pitched it in the trashcan.

Chris

CRX · 2019-05-06T00:39:47.000Z

He’s done this just to annoy me

raccoon · 2019-05-06T18:08:44.000Z

I really like this gif!

aginthelaw · 2019-05-06T18:17:42.000Z

That said. Not everyone wants to spend $2.48 on spare parts for a $5 flashlight, so OP’s solution works…

You actually spent $5 on this light? Woof!!! I think i got 3 for $10

That being said, hey robin. Does the new switch prevent it from coming on in your pocket?

Lightbringer · 2019-05-06T18:57:22.000Z

aginthelaw:

That being said, hey robin. Does the new switch prevent it from coming on in your pocket?

Maybe not, but it gives new meaning to someone “having a woody”…

CRX · 2019-05-06T19:22:38.000Z

aginthelaw:

That said. Not everyone wants to spend $2.48 on spare parts for a $5 flashlight, so OP’s solution works…

What!?
We spend £30 upgrading £10 lights around here