2x18650 in 2D Mag - how to do it?

[digitaldave]

As part of my reading around whilst planning out my Mag conversions, I've read lots of recommendations for using 2x18650 batteries in a 2D Maglite. However, I'm not sure exactly how to do it with a 2D (lots of info for the Mag 2C though)... I'll need a spacer to go around the 18650s, but are there any readily available off the shelf spacers, or can I make one out of hosing of some sort? I can't make one out of anything that needs a lathe, as I don't have easy access to one. So, the simpler the better . Also, will the length be a problem in a 2D Mag? Finally, will they make good contact with the spring, or will I need to mod that too?

Thanks,

Dave.

 

[tx101]

Use hose or pipe insulation as a sleeve, I did this before I had a delrin
one made
You might have to use magnets for the positive contact
because the spring is kinda recessed unless you take out
the switch and flatten the plastic around the positive contact spring
so that it sticks out more.
You might want to pick up one of KD's gold shorty springs. Better
contact with the negative side of the cell and less pressure as well.

 

[Superdave]

I made a sleave out of an old wooden closet rod. Had to sand the outside diameter down a little to fit inside the 2D body.. then i drilled a 3/4" hole through the middle.

I had to trim a bit off the tailcap spring but it works like a charm.


I bet you could find some PVC pipe at the store that's 3/4" ID, then a few couplers to slide around the outside so that it would fit. Probably a much better way. :laughing:

 

[digitaldave]

Thanks for the replies . So, 3/4" or about 19mm inside diameter... What is the inside diameter of a D cell Maglite tube (i.e. what outside diameter sleeve do I need)?

Thanks,

Dave.

 

[Der Wichtel]

I use pipe insulation for warm water made of foam as well and it fits very good.
it costs about 0.5-1€ per meter in the hardware store which is more than enough.

 

[allburger]

use 3/4" PVC Sch. 40. It is perfect for the 18650's. Then use 3/4"PVC Coupler at the ends of the pipe to thicken the width to make contact with the walls of the body. The outside diameter of the 3/4" coupler is right for the body and the 3/4" pipe is perfect for the 18650. This will cost you about $3 or like other people have said, you can use radiator hose and i dont know what that will cost.

 

[Isthereanybodyoutthere]

How are you planning on driving the P7 using 2x18650 batteries ??
What driver ??

 

[nailbender]

a piece of one inch PVC then take a piece of heater hose and split it length ways so you can get the batteries in and out easier and then put the heater hose inside the pvc which you have sanded smooth.

 

[digitaldave]

Thanks for all the suggestions everyone . I'm still undescided if I should use 2x18650 or 6AA in an adaptor. I already have some spare AA batteries (but would still need to buy a couple more), so that would be cheaper, as I don't have any 18650 batteries at the moment. Anyway, thanks for the ideas about getting the 18650s in the Mag 2D .

How are you planning on driving the P7 using 2x18650 batteries ??
What driver ??

I'm going to use an MC-E wired 2s2p.

Dave.

 

[Superdave]

depending on the batteries i've noticed some flickering when direct driving.. my MC-E /Ultrafire 18650 combo does this. It's kind of annoying.


in my P7 Mag i used this driver from KD: http://www.kaidomain.com/ProductDetails.aspx?ProductId=6386

It should work on a MC-E (just check the datasheet first).

I'm actually going to order a few more to use with a MC-E in a KT2 turbohead soon... :thumbsup:

 

[jasonck08]

I just made a 2x18650 to 2D adaptor using some 3/4" PVC and couplers and coper sheeting, and epoxy. I'll post some pictures of it tomorrow... Now you will need to shorten the mag spring for a good fit. 18650's are a fair amount longer...

 

[gordoyvr]

I have made an adapter from aluminum which fits nicely inside the mag lite.
I also made a contact point for the tail cap. My problem is i need to figure out the electrics for this to work.
The adapter holds the two 18650s perfectly and centered , the tail cap secures the assembly with no gaps.
Send a msg and i could try to send the photos and measurements.
Gord

 

[nailbender]

another way you can lengthen the light is to get one of downloads mag ring extensions, this is one of the reasons he has these and you can use a lanyard also if wanted. They are right good looking since they are not very large.

Dave