Experiences with KD880U bulb / 12v bulb recommendations

[carrier82]

Hello everyone.

I just recently got parts for my very first maglite mod. I'm running a G4 KD 880U bulb with cammed SMO reflector at a 12-cell configuration. I like intense hotspots but I cannot adjust the beam to a hotspot at all. I trimmed the bulb legs so it would sit more deep but it didn't help. I suppose this is a bulb you use in a flood light with OP reflector? Would using a different bulb like this help?

This is what the beamshot looks like when adjusted to max throw.

This is what the beamshot looks like when the bezel is almost screwed off (this is what I want).

 

[carrier82]

Re: Experiences with KD880U bulb?

:bump:

No one knows any 12 volt bulbs good for stock reflector?

 

[BSBG]

Re: Experiences with KD880U bulb?

:bump:

No one knows any 12 volt bulbs good for stock reflector?

You need to tell us more - what switch assembly are you using, are you really using the stock reflector - the plastic one? I didn't think that would last more than 10 seconds at 100w heat levels...

A quick search shows that KD bulb is 12.5v, 1.3 amps, or around 15watts - not 100 watts, that is why your reflector survives:

http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?p=2753987

The Osram 62138 is an axial filament and gives a nice round spot, but it may not like 12 cells, you may need to run 11, or use a soft start of some sort. It will melt a plastic reflector just about instantly so you will need an aluminum one.

 

[carrier82]

No need for 100w bulb (they don't have a G4 socket but something called GY6.35?), a bit less would be adequate. Something like 35 watts. First I was about to go wa1185, but as I figured out my M*g would fit a 12-cell adaptor as well, I chose that instead. Now I have the option to use dummy cells to run the welch allyn bulb. But would rather choose a higher voltage bulb.

The stock reflector was misleading. I am using metal reflector (SMO) that is shaped like the stock one and a glass lense. My switch is stock and I use a bi-pin socket to fit the bulb. But I'd like the bulb to fit the stock bezel and behave like a stock bulb (adjustable beam). Am I daydreaming? :thinking:

 

[BSBG]

Try the 1185 - it is a classic, nice and white with plenty of output. Current is not too high for a stock switch either.