3x C Cell Sabre Lite Conversion

mddolson

Newly Enlightened
Joined
Jan 21, 2014
Messages
40
Location
Belleville, Ont, Canada
I have a 3xC cell Sabre light, that has a 30 lumen incandescent bulb/reflector in it.
It's been my back up for years. Aways works , reliable dependable etc.

I've ordered a cree 200 lumen drop-in module from DealExtreme as an experiment.
ref: http://www.dx.com/p/cree-q5-led-drop-in-module-3-7v-18v-input-11621

Just wondering if anyone has tried this with any success.
I estimate using 3 alkaline c-cells usable range should be 4.5 vdc down to about 3.0 vdc.
Alternatively I can run 3 Nimh c-cells at 3.6 vdc.

Mike D
 

flydiver

Newly Enlightened
Joined
Nov 24, 2009
Messages
14
I've looked at this conversion. The problem is the way the screw on head makes electrical contact now > vs. using a P60 drop in. I couldn't figure a way to make it work either.
Intriguing idea, bad host I think.
 

mddolson

Newly Enlightened
Joined
Jan 21, 2014
Messages
40
Location
Belleville, Ont, Canada
I have completed the conversion. Will post pictures.
The Cree-Q5 came with two contact springs. I removed the large outer spring, & machined an aluminum contact flange, similar to original lamp module.
I tuned the size using a center punch around the hole, until I had a light press fit.
I press the ring over the back of the led housing. The flange also keeps the module centered, since new reflector is smaller than original xenon lamp module.

I am very pleased with this low cost ($10) conversion.

Mike D
 
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mddolson

Newly Enlightened
Joined
Jan 21, 2014
Messages
40
Location
Belleville, Ont, Canada
Here's links to the photos:

The modified Cree-Q5 on left & original xenon lamp right
http://i1246.photobucket.com/albums/gg603/mddolson/Pelican LED Conversion/IMG_0702R.jpg

The xeonon lamp beam at 10ft on 4ft sheet of drywall (Black dots= drywall screws at 46")
http://i1246.photobucket.com/albums/gg603/mddolson/Pelican LED Conversion/IMG_0703r.jpg

Q5 leight beam at 10 ft on 4ft sheet of drywall
http://i1246.photobucket.com/albums/gg603/mddolson/Pelican LED Conversion/IMG_0704r.jpg

Finished modified Sabre light.
http://i1246.photobucket.com/albums/gg603/mddolson/Pelican LED Conversion/IMG_0705r.jpg

Mike D
 
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