Surefire Tailcap Springs

Bob96

Enlightened
Joined
Jan 13, 2010
Messages
203
Surefire makes nice products. Their tailcap switches work fine with the primarys that they are designed for. I have found when using high power LED or Incan and IMR cells they - deform - turn color - shorten in length by 1/2. I have not had this problem with the McClicky Switch or even the Solarforce switches. My guess is that the Surefire springs shouldn't be used with 3amp max including the twisty switch.
 
The IMR drop ins from LF, and I believe the p91 will have enough amps to melt the metal spring if you use a push tailcap switch, you must use a twisty tailcap.

The warning of IMR dropins from lumensfactory:
*The IMR Series lamps have very high current draws, we highly recommend users to use a twisty switch setup on all models.

*In the case of the IMR-E2 where a twisty switch might not be readily available, please do not use the it continuously for a lengthy period of time. The large spring on the tailswitch might loose tension because of the heat generated. Pulling it back to normal will be a quick solution when it does occur.

*The IMR Series lamps are designed for IMR (LiMN) setups ONLY, do NOT use normal (Li-ion) 3.7V rechargeables with these lamps.

*IMR Series Special High Output Lamps produce EXCESSIVE HEAT and should not be operated continuously for over 10 minutes because of overheating of IMR (LiMN) rechargeable batteries might occur. We are not responsible for any damage to any parts outside of the lamp and assembly itself. All risks remain with the user.
 
It's been a while since I measured them, but IIRC the Z48 and Z49 shrouded click tailcaps had a wire spring diameter that was twice as large as the standard tailcaps.

Paladin
 
Since we're on the topic, what determines the current draw tolerance of a tailcap spring? Is it the type of material used or the amount of material used? A thicker spring would appear more durable, however a thicker spring also increases resistance, thus heating up the spring more than a thinner spring right?
 
Someone measured the tailcap resistances and compared SF tailcaps, the Z41 had the highest resistance. Great durability/reliability but other than that...:ohgeez:

I like to think Paul Kim intended it this way and its a resistance mod included free of charge.:thumbsup:
 
A thicker spring would appear more durable, however a thicker spring also increases resistance, thus heating up the spring more than a thinner spring right?

You are incorrect. A thicker, i.e. larger diameter spring wire/conductor has LESS resistance, and will have less heat buildup.

Paladin
 
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