Gene
Flashlight Enthusiast
stingray's "Frozen Tailcap" thread below brought up an interesting question. Alkaline, (or any), cells can leak at any given time in long term storage flashlights and especially in frozen climates. I know you should remove batteries when a flashlight is not going to be used for awhile. Some of us though have a need to put flashlights where they're needed outside, (or inside), and they might sit through a complete winter or two. I had a 6 "C" cell Mag hanging on a hook outside my cabin that I used for the last two winters when I went outside and forgot my EDC. It worked fine but at the end of last winter, I went to use it and the light was "yellowing". I got the tailcap off okay but the batteries were completely corroded and stuck inside. I soaked the body in WD-40 for several days and luckily got them out. Again, I know the batteries should be removed or checked every so often but you know how all we common folk are! Anyone know of a way to alliviate this? This year I've taken the batteries out and sprayed the inside of the lights with WD-40 or Break-Free CLP. I know, I know, petroleum products will attack o-rings but I've never had a problem with that. I have two 10 year old Mags that have been soaked with WD-40 to loosen stuck, corroded batteries and the original 10 year old o-rings AND rubber push buttons are still just fine. Any other ideas?
