Where can I get a bi-pin slug without too much $$?

[Nomad]

Hey folks. I could use a slug for modifying stock switches. I know there's a fancy gold plated one for $30...but wow. That's a lot (I realise, lots of work). And the KIU socket won't work for me because I really want to be able to focus the lights. I just need a fairly inexpensive way to put a bi-pin bulb in a Mag C or D and keep the focusing ability. All you folks with Magcharges that upgraded your switches, maybe you can help me out? I hear these work ok with mica heat shields...

 

[lasercrazy]

I've got an entire MC switch assembly, if you're interested PM me.

 

[underdust]

I ordered a few replacement switches from here last year:

http://www.cases4less.com/maglite/detail_mag_recharge_specs.html

I think the part number you want is #108-106. (it's the last one at the bottom of the page)

 

[bfg9000]

I can focus my Mags just fine with a Kiu socket... just takes more than half a turn is all

Truth is, every cammed aluminum reflector I've tried didn't focus nearly as smoothly as the stock plastic Mag reflector anyway (actually kind of a crunchy/grinding metal-on-metal feeling) so the low-resistance KIU is simply a vastly superior solution for bipins. Think of it as having a finer adjustment for focusing.

I'd still insist on a cammed reflector for a ROP though; maybe some high-temperature grease on the roller would help.

 

[bridgman]

I would vote for the Kiu socket as well. As long as the bulb is at about the right height you just screw the bezel in and out to focus, it only takes 1/8 inch or so to make a big difference.

Now, having ONE of fivemega's gold bi-pin adapters is great, it gives you a lot of options and lets you mock up lights quickly. Just remember that it puts the filament further forward than a normal potted bulb so you really need a fivemega cammed reflector to go with it.

 

[DonShock]

By changing the hardware stack between the ceramic socket and the aluminum base, you can get the Kiu kit to fit most bulbs and still retain focusability. If the focal point is too high with the tall posts, just use 0/1/2 thin nuts instead. If it's too short, just use the nuts on top of the posts.

 

[Nomad]

Well, I'm just waiting for the parts to get here so I can put together my ROP 2C...but I also am waiting for the parts to get here so I can put together a 3D mag with 5 1/2Ds, a Phillips 5761, you know what I mean? Ought to be nifty... really am looking for some good deals on cammed reflectors, and holding out for one of Fivemega's deep bezel + reflectors. That thing is friggen awesome and I wish he'd made more!

 

[bfg9000]

Kiu throws in a bag of hardware with the $12 kit that includes different height posts.

FM seems to have another run of those deep reflectors about every six months. They are a steal at $35 considering they include a bezel for just $5 more than his standard cammed reflectors. But the standard reflectors are available right now in VLOP and MOP with a nifty removable cam (the deep ones all had fixed cams), and he does seem to be the only one making cammed reflectors anymore...