SF M3 (D36) LED tower vs P60 LED drop-in?

[akula88]

I'm trying to ascertain which one would throw better --
* a tower-drop-in on a Z46(M3) head/bezel (this is D36)
versus
* a standard P60 drop-in

Assuming both are driven at the same amount current and of similar LED, example - XPL-HI.

---
I presume that Z46 having a larger diameter reflector could throw better -- but as only a tower-type drop-in and not optimized to work together, will this be it's disadvantage?

 

[yazkaz]

I'm trying to ascertain which one would throw better --
* a tower-drop-in on a Z46(M3) head/bezel (this is D36)
versus
* a standard P60 drop-in

Assuming both are driven at the same amount current and of similar LED, example - XPL-HI.

---
I presume that Z46 having a larger diameter reflector could throw better -- but as only a tower-type drop-in and not optimized to work together, will this be it's disadvantage?

I believe the Z46 with mini tower module might throw better due to the larger reflector setup.

If however you have the capability to disassemble the Z46 assy then consider getting Lumens Factory's D36 dropin and its proprietary Z46 lens/gasket/bezel ring upgrade. You may bet better results with the beam profile......

 

[Buck91]

I'm also looking at some D36 options. Can you tell me more about this Z46 lens/gasket? I was going to settle for the M series drop in the offer, but this sounds interesting.

 

[yazkaz]

I'm also looking at some D36 options. Can you tell me more about this Z46 lens/gasket? I was going to settle for the M series drop in the offer, but this sounds interesting.

LF makes the most reliable D36 modules, even one that runs on XHP50/2 AFAIK, even though that obviously requires enough power source to run (ie. 2x3.7V preferably 2x18650, 2x21700 or 2x26650).

Z46 bezel modification is not something new. It has been practiced by some, by simply opening it up, removing the relfector etc., dropping in a compatible D36 module, then reinstalling the lens, gasket etc. But since this is a Jerry-rigged setup one would likely experience fitment and connection issues. LF's lens/gasket kit AFAIK takes these matters into consideration and ensures that once their D36 module is dropped in, the lens/gasket would fit in snugly without issues. Also such module should come with a longer +ve contact spring for effective battery contact -- a common issue with the said Jerry-rigged Z46 module setup.

 

[Eric242]

yazkaz, do you have a link to the LF lens/gasket kit? I can only find the lens but not the kit. I have Z46 shell that´s in need of a lens and.....

 

[yazkaz]

yazkaz, do you have a link to the LF lens/gasket kit? I can only find the lens but not the kit. I have Z46 shell that´s in need of a lens and.....

No links just yet. In fact such kit is still not available yet AFAIK. The lens is already available, the cren bezel will be available soon, even the gasket has been made. But there are still a few other things that need to be taken care of internally, although I don't know of the full details.

Meanwhile the Z46 can still be modified with the D36 the usual way, but reusing any existing lens/gasket etc. The module will be loose inside the Z46 until after screwed onto the body and with batteries installed. Some compromise in water resistance is also to be expected.

 

[Eric242]

No links just yet. In fact such kit is still not available yet AFAIK. The lens is already available, the cren bezel will be available soon, even the gasket has been made. But there are still a few other things that need to be taken care of internally, although I don't know of the full details.

Future products, ok. I´ll be waiting. Thanks for the info.

I´ve modded a few Z46 back in the days but the foam was always bothering big time and now I don´t have the time nor the interest in fiddling around with that.