any willing modders here?

SAKnight · **on:** September 22, 2012, 06:00:41 AM

Hello all. I'll all the question first, then qualify it after: is there anybody in the us that could convert my maglite solitaire to an led? If so, how much would it cost, and what would it look like? I just thought to all here because I know joining cpf could guaranteed get it done, but i'm more of a multitool guy, I just want a good light for edc emergencies. The key points would be reliability and if possible, remaining adjustable. If anyone can help, leave a reply and pm me please!

Heinz Doofenshmirtz · **Reply #1 on:** September 22, 2012, 07:48:06 AM

You don't necessarily need to resort to a modder; there are lots of stock alternative options out there for mags.

Here's one that is very highly respected:
http://www.malkoffdevices.com/

Here are some modules you can try, but I personally have never had a good experience with Terralux products.
http://www.batteryjunction.com/maledre.html

If you want to go all hard-core mod, check this out:
http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?119665-MagLite-2C-2D-4D-3W-LED-drop-in-Technical-Review

Gareth · **Reply #2 on:** September 22, 2012, 09:50:59 AM

Do you know that Maglite themselves have just come up with an LED version of the Solitaire?

http://www.led-resource.com/upcoming-led-products/

Personally I just got myself an easy drop-in module something like this one from ebay; http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/15-3-lumens-Bi-Pin-LED-MODULE-FOR-MAGLITE-SOLITAIRE-/120987982420?pt=US_Flashlights&hash=item1c2b721a54

Mike, Lord of the Spammers! · **Reply #3 on:** September 22, 2012, 11:44:16 AM

Not trying to be difficult mate, but why not just get a Fenix E01

There a superb light and totally reliable

enki_ck · **Reply #4 on:** September 22, 2012, 11:53:03 AM

+1 What Gareth said.

If you want to keep it for sentimental reasons, get a drop in. The Fenix E01 is also a great option for only $2-3 more than the drop in. Here's a pic of both of them.

I did a video comparing those two some time ago, and also the iTP A3 (now available as "olight i3" or "Maratac AAA" but still the same flashlight) Not the best video out there but it shows the diferences in output and beam profile.

SAKnight · **Reply #5 on:** September 23, 2012, 02:20:02 AM

Thank you all for the quick, extensive help! I would like to stick to the solitaire for sentimental reasons, but I read that the regular drop ins rarely last, which scares me because I question its durability. Even though I won't use it often, it will be banging around in my pack quite a bit, yet need to turn on when I loosen that cap. Gareth, it would seem that the led solitaire isn't out yet? And Heinz, I couldn't find a malkoff for the solitaire. I will probably end up with a drop in it seems though

enki_ck · **Reply #6 on:** September 23, 2012, 06:34:00 PM

Quote from: SAKnight on September 23, 2012, 02:20:02 AM

Thank you all for the quick, extensive help! I would like to stick to the solitaire for sentimental reasons, but I read that the regular drop ins rarely last, which scares me because I question its durability.

I've had my drop in for about two years now. No problems what so ever.

Gareth · **Reply #7 on:** September 23, 2012, 06:41:11 PM

Not had any issues with mine either, though I admit it's not seen a lot of use.

gustophersmob · **Reply #8 on:** September 23, 2012, 07:33:12 PM

I know you're looking primarily for a drop-in, but I would like to second (or third, or whatever) the recommendation for the E01.

If you are looking for a truly bomb-proof light, the E01 is it.

The only problem is it doesn't focus like you were looking for $:-\$

Gareth · **Reply #9 on:** September 23, 2012, 08:32:17 PM

It's a very good point. I got the upgrade to keep my Solitaire "up to date" as I always had a soft spot for it, but there is no doubt that there are better lights out there; Fenix E05 won't break the bank, is physically smaller and is notably brighter than the upgrade will manage.

That said this thread has gotten me using my Solitaire again.

ironraven · **Reply #10 on:** September 25, 2012, 02:28:57 AM

I would leave it as is. AND get a newer, high speed LED to go with.

Remember, in the event of an EMP event, incandecent MagLites will work. Those of us with regulating chips in our LED lights will probably have really nifty battery container.

tattoosteve99 · **Reply #11 on:** September 25, 2012, 02:50:55 AM

Easy way to mod the solitaire to a led is to buy a 3-5mm led that is rated for the current 1.5 volts or below. All you do is to cut the ends the same length as the old bulb and put it in. If it doesn't light just flip it around. Best of all you can keep a couple of spares for next to nothing. You may also have to enlarge the reflector hole a bit.