Hi All. I modified my UK C4 eLed over the weekend to run on 8 AA NiMh batteries. I wanted the torch to be as bright as the 8 cell version but more compact. The C8 can be bulky to pack and heavy in the water. The modification took less than an hour to do, is completely reversible and even works with 4C batteries in a pinch.
To do the mod you will need to buy two AA battery holders. One that holds 6AA batteries (3 on each side) and one that holds two. Wire the battery packs up on series. Next wire the battery pack to the eLed module. I took off the two screws holding the battery contact plate (careful not to loose the gas pelets) and soldered wires to the contact springs, then replaced the battery contact plate. Remove the spring base plate (it slides out). Put the two battery packs inside the C4, replace the eLed module and screw down the lens. Laugh all the way to the battery store.
I used 9V battery clips to make the battery pack removable and to assist with in torch charging. With this setup you can even disconnect the battery pack and use 4C batteries.
Performance wise the torch seems brighter than with 4C. The spot seems more intese. After about 2 hours I got bored and switched it off. I think the burn time is around 3-4 hours. Plenty for me given that I plan to recharge the torch after one or two night dives.
Enjoy!!
To do the mod you will need to buy two AA battery holders. One that holds 6AA batteries (3 on each side) and one that holds two. Wire the battery packs up on series. Next wire the battery pack to the eLed module. I took off the two screws holding the battery contact plate (careful not to loose the gas pelets) and soldered wires to the contact springs, then replaced the battery contact plate. Remove the spring base plate (it slides out). Put the two battery packs inside the C4, replace the eLed module and screw down the lens. Laugh all the way to the battery store.
I used 9V battery clips to make the battery pack removable and to assist with in torch charging. With this setup you can even disconnect the battery pack and use 4C batteries.
Performance wise the torch seems brighter than with 4C. The spot seems more intese. After about 2 hours I got bored and switched it off. I think the burn time is around 3-4 hours. Plenty for me given that I plan to recharge the torch after one or two night dives.
Enjoy!!
