In loving memory of Kenis D. Keathley 6/4/81 - 3/27/22 Loving father, husband, brother, friend and firewood hoarder Rest in peace, Dexterday

Mag-Lite Battery cap

Discussion in 'The DIY Room' started by iBob, Nov 11, 2026 at 11:00 AM.

  1. iBob

    iBob

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    Will not budge! Can anyone share a solution?
    I've tried penetrating oil, but no joy.

    Cheers,
    Bob
     

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  2. MikeInMa

    MikeInMa

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    Some channel lock pliers?

    185991.jpg
     
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  3. wildwest

    wildwest Moderator

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    vice, rubber band and wrench?
     
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  4. RCBS

    RCBS

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    Have the batteries been in it a long time? Long enough to start making that white stuff? Could have it gummed up. Crude, but have you tried giving it a good smack?
     
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  5. Erik B

    Erik B

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    Does the other end come off?
     
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  6. Woodtroll

    Woodtroll

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    Sadly, once they corrode enough to lock the cap up, often you can't even get the batteries out. Even if you can, there's little chance of restoring function. Or at least I've never had much luck with it. I wish somebody could produce an affordable D-cell battery that didn't leak! :(:mad:
     
  7. iBob

    iBob

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    Hello chaps,
    The Maggy was gifted to me by a former Park Ranger who has long since retired and now lives it up in a care home:dex:

    Well, I've put this on the back burner for now.
    I don't think those batteries have seen the light of day for over 20 years.
    As mentioned, it's probably gummy gum gum inside :doh:

    On my next attempt I'm going medieval - wish me luck! :picard:

    Bob
     
  8. Woodtroll

    Woodtroll

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    I hate that, I hope you're able to at least get it open!
     
  9. RCBS

    RCBS

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    Seems like many gave up on the trusty Maglites for more modern fare. I'm gifting a 6 cell this year for Christmas. Not so much for as a flashlight... they lend themselves to other tasks well and do not require permission to posess. ;)
     
  10. Woodtroll

    Woodtroll

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    Good, solid, hefty, easy to grip lights! ;) A necessity in every vehicle.
     
  11. MikeInMa

    MikeInMa

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    I replaced the incandescent bulb with an LED. Great upgrade if you haven't already done so.
     
  12. brenndatomu

    brenndatomu

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    I've given up on the D cell maglites...seems like they never work when you actually need it, which is very seldom (for me) since the little 2x AAA cell led lites have become so popular (and cheap)
     
  13. MikeInMa

    MikeInMa

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    And very illuminating!
     
  14. FortySix&Two

    FortySix&Two

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    Toss it and buy a good flashlight
     
  15. Jeffrey Svoboda

    Jeffrey Svoboda

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    It's crazy how far lightning has come in the last 10-15 years.

    I have a small handheld spotlight, takes 4 C batteries, that's decently bright. Buddy of mine has a light that's no bigger than 3 sharpie markers, easily fits in a pocket and is brighter.
     
  16. FortySix&Two

    FortySix&Two

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    100%. The only thing a Maglite is good for these days is hitting someone in the head with it if they deserve it.
     
  17. FortySix&Two

    FortySix&Two

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    Last edited: Nov 12, 2026 at 12:01 PM
  18. RCBS

    RCBS

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    Zero chance of thermal runaway also.
     
  19. Barcroftb

    Barcroftb

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    Yes place the maglite in your car or other location you may need a club. Go to the olight or nitecore website and take your pick based on your budget. Almost every choice is a superior flashlight. Careful though Flashlight Acquisition Disorder (FAD) is every bit the illness that chainsaw acquisition disorder (CAD) is!:whistle:
     
  20. MikeInMa

    MikeInMa

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    I've had a Nightcore for several years. 3,800 lumens lights up the area. :thumbs: