STIFF switch on new Arc 4, any fixes to this?

[Bushman]

Just got a new Arc 4 Rev 2 (Thanks Peter!) The switch is much stiffer to activate than the other two Arc 4's that I have had in the past... Any way to soften it up any? When I say stiff I figure it takes about 6-8 lbs of pressure to turn it on...

 

[mut]

Does it have the little foam insert under the rivet looking part? I know that made a difference on mine.

mut

 

[Bushman]

Yes it does have the foam insert. Do I need to remove it?

 

[GJW]

With mine the foam insert reduces "wiggle" room.
Installed, the switch pretty much needs forces perpendicular to the axis.
Without it there's more play and force can be applied at a slight angle and the switch will still work.
Removing it however causes switch ratttle.
YMMV.

 

[Bushman]

Ok I will try it but it is dissapointing that when holding the light with a "cigar grip" I nearly have to break my thumb to push the button. In semi tac mode a double click quick enough to make the light latch on is nearly impossible.

 

[GJW]

Also try a shorter battery brand.
Out of the package, my switch didn't work with any brand of batteries so I'm using the lock washer mod.
Now it at least works but I still notice that SureFire batteries resulit in a stiffer switch than Duracells.

 

[Bushman]

Do I just need to search for "lock washer" for the appropriate mod there?

 

[Gransee]

Bushman, sorry to hear the switch has too much drag. In addition to our offer of adjusting it for you, you may also try removing the rear steel basket and spring in the tail. This would leave the gold disk, plunger and foam spacer. If you decide to try this your self, this might soften the action.

Peter

 

[GJW]

[ QUOTE ]
Bushman said:
Do I just need to search for "lock washer" for the appropriate mod there?

[/ QUOTE ]

That's mainly for switches that don't work but here you go.

I expect it will make your switch even stiffer.

 

[Bushman]

Well RATS. I will take a look at it and see. I am hesitant to start bending on any of the gold contact springs, but I may have to to get it to soften up some. Thanks for finding that thread.

 

[Bushman]

Peter, Thank you for your reply. I will try what you have suggested. As always, you are very helpful. I know it is a picky thing. Thanks very much...

EDIT I ended up bending the fore (as compared to aft) gold contact DOWN a bit and it improved significantly.