SOS light repair

[fmerkel]

Exactly. The dislike for rechargeables in back-ups (read: must work when needed) is based on NiCads, which are long gone.

I use LSD NiMh in my backup. I check it ever 3-4 months just to make sure there has been no seepage and top off the batteries. This last time the were down like 300mAhm, from 2000mAh, something like half a AAA. It's just not an issue anymore with decent cells, Lithium or NiMh.

 

[tbone1004]

@fmerkel if using NiMH in backups and you aren't using them regularly, you want a smart charger with a cycle function. Good to do that every few months and I usually do it prior to a big trip.
I use this guy since it also does my LiPo batteries
Opus BT-C3100 Charger/Battery Tester

Some of the eneloop chargers have that feature as well, but I prefer the opus since it tells me the actual battery capacity so I can tell when they need to be replaced.

 

[runsongas]

The lens is likely held in and sealed by a pair of o-rings. One ahead and one behind. You'll have to press on the lens itself to compress the rear o-ring, then remove the front. It should then come out giving you access to the LED and board. No idea what is in there, but if you're committed to that light, like @fmerkel said, you'll be far better off upgrading it to a modern emitter. Candlepowerforum is another good resource

@buddhasummer

Not sure it would be the pair of orings like the old dive rites. no visible groove from the picture at least. might have to remove the potting from the rear in order to dig out the emitter and driver. between a new emitter, driver, and optics, getting a d26 is the cheaper and easier route. what beam angle are you looking for?

 

[tbone1004]

@buddhasummer

Not sure it would be the pair of orings like the old dive rites. no visible groove from the picture at least. might have to remove the potting from the rear in order to dig out the emitter and driver. between a new emitter, driver, and optics, getting a d26 is the cheaper and easier route. what beam angle are you looking for?

oh, don't get me wrong, there is a 0% chance that I would bother with trying to fix or upgrade it, but I don't have the time and frankly couldn't be bothered. I don't like the form factor of the D26 personally, nor do I like 26650's, and I really don't like the button, but to each his own. I would certainly go with a new backup light to whatever you personally prefer.

 

[fmerkel]

@fmerkel if using NiMH in backups and you aren't using them regularly, you want a smart charger with a cycle function.

Well equipped that way: an Opus, Zanflare C4, 2x Lii-500, BlueTech (Lacrosse rebrand AA/AAA), and a couple of full bore hobby chargers.
If not being used regularly, I do cycle them occasionally.

Personally think 26650 are great!

 

[buddhasummer]

@buddhasummer

Not sure it would be the pair of orings like the old dive rites. no visible groove from the picture at least. might have to remove the potting from the rear in order to dig out the emitter and driver. between a new emitter, driver, and optics, getting a d26 is the cheaper and easier route. what beam angle are you looking for?

The glass is fixed by what looks like a flat split ring, I'd imagine it would be very hard to remove without a press. Looks like I might have to bin it. I'm looking for something small, I'm a small guy and don't have a lot of space on my harness. I like CR123 as they have a very long shelf life, I also like AA as I have two other lights that use them and my Perdix, so when traveling getting the batteries is not an issue. The other issue with rechargeables is the need to carry a charger, not a big deal I know but when traveling I like things to be as simple as possible and to carry as less as possible.

Greenforce make what looks like a nice backup running on AA, Diamond 600AA but it's a little on the long side.

Around 10 degrees would suit my needs, I only want it for OW diving.

 

[lexvil]

The glass is fixed by what looks like a flat split ring, I'd imagine it would be very hard to remove without a press. Looks like I might have to bin it. I'm looking for something small, I'm a small guy and don't have a lot of space on my harness. I like CR123 as they have a very long shelf life, I also like AA as I have two other lights that use them and my Perdix, so when traveling getting the batteries is not an issue. The other issue with rechargeables is the need to carry a charger, not a big deal I know but when traveling I like things to be as simple as possible and to carry as less as possible.

Greenforce make what looks like a nice backup running on AA, Diamond 600AA but it's a little on the long side. Around 10 degrees would suit my needs, I only want it for OW diving.

On the other hand, on a liveaboard dead battery, no spares done or recharge? Probably why I like the Teric.

 

[buddhasummer]

On the other hand, on a liveaboard dead battery, no spares done or recharge? Probably why I like the Teric.

Yes, on a longer liveaboard that makes absolute sense. That thought never crossed my mind. Back to the drawing board, thanks Lex.

 

[tbone1004]

Dive Rite BX1 may be an option for you. It's twist on which I find annoying, but it can take AAA's or 18650's. 18650's are much better though and the charger for a single one is pretty tiny all things considered.

 

[buddhasummer]

Thanks Tom, I'm a big fan of magnetic collars, all my MB-sub lights have them.