I just got the kit from Lighthound yesterday (excellent fast shipping, as always). Last night I got to assembling the sleeper MM and was impressed by the output. At least for a few minutes. Then I noticed that all of the sudden it started to dim. I figured it was the batteries, so I turned it off and disassembled everything for inspection. I noticed that the bulb was significantly blackened on the top, but would still light. I'm suspecting a compromised TL3 bulb. Any idea why this bulb would blacken inside? I made sure to swab it completely with rubbing alcohol after handling it, and let it dry before firing it up.
Any thoughts? Also, any other bulbs recommended to try in this configuration? TL3 bulbs will get spendy if they don't last long. I'm using the AW rechargeables 14500 (protected) sold as an option when ordering this mod on the LH website. I get the feeling that my first hyperhotwire mod may have been a semi-failure, but believe it should work, since others seem to comment highly on this mod.
Any feedback is appreciated!
Regards,
Mike