Cree XP-G R5 Modified Surefire G2D/G3D FYL lights

[Moddoo]

Hey guys,
I picked up a couple of these new 3 level Surefire lights to see how they performed.
Basically I wasn't quite satisfied with the output and tint, and decided to "fix" the "problem"

The stock output looks very similar to the output of a P60L. It may be a bit brighter, but the tint is a very cool blue.
The 3 levels are very nice.
Also, these lights have a nice strong spill with the reflector provided.

Here are some #s that I found during testing:

STOCK Surefire G2D
Forward voltage (as measured across the LED still mounted in the head)
Low: 3.11V
Medium: 3.57V
High: 4.02V

Current to the LED:
Low: 90mA
Medium: 360mA
High: 900mA

(The G3D had nearly identical #s, but is pushing 960mA on High)
Lux @ 1 meter on high = 4500

So, then I removed the stock LED and replaced it with a new Cree XP-G R5.
Results of the Mod:
Forward voltage (as measured across the LED mounted in the head)
Low: 2.76V
Medium: 2.99V
High: 3.20V

Lux @ 1 meter on high =6950

To compare, I measured an M60 @5000 Lux running on 2 fresh primaries


Here are some pics to help you see the difference.
I made a tiny aluminum ring to make sure the new emitter was perfectly centered.
I will not be modding these regularly.
I just wanted to share the potential of this simple mod with you guys.
Now, go tear apart your brand new lights!

(this first pic is the fine work of ElectronGuru):thumbsup:

XPG mod on the left in all the beamshots

G2D FYL XPG mod vs stock G2D FYL

G2D FYL XPG mod vs Malkoff M30
Note, the M30 pictured has a nice neutral color compared to my other Malkoffs.

 

[Dioni]

Great mod!!!

I also don't like the blueish tint of the G3D. Its a great simple mod wich impoved a nice tint without output losses. BTW looks better than the M30.

Cheers
Dioni

 

[Agile54]

Thx. for sharing that w/ us Moddoo, looks like a great improvement on the OEM G2D, sure you or someone will enjoy that upgrade.

 

[Moddoo]

Thanks Guys,

It really does wake these lights up.

Bump for any others who may be interested

 

[Black Rose]

Nice work.

Everyone seems to complain the XP-Gs have a greenish tint, but those look really good.

 

[Justin Case]

The Seoul P4 they used must be from a really bad Vf bin to come in at Vf~4V at 900mA drive current. I've typically measured more like 3.4V or less at 1000mA. Good to see that the rule of thumb still holds -- if the reflector works well for an SSC P4, it should work well for an XP-G.

 

[dirtech]

Couple of questions:

I'm getting 400 mA at the tail. How does this relate to current at the LED? Wondering if I can expect the same results on mine.

Also, care to share any tips on disassembling the module and replacing the led?

Edit- just realized I'm not talking about the same flashlight.

 

[woodrow]

Cool Mod...and great beamshots, Thanks!

Based on your beamshots, I am REALLY glad the store I tried to order one of these from was out of them. I would have been very disapointed with the stock beam. My last SF tint was Very blue as well. Also, the light's output would have not made me happy either.

Thanks for saving me over $100. Maybe the next version of these lights will include a R5 and I will pick one up. In the mean time I will be envious of yours.

Thanks again for the photos!

 

[FredericoFreire]