TFFTM 1 #1 December 13, 2007 Have not seen this on DZ.com yet and thought I would post how to convert the military strobe (SDU-5/E) lights to a “newer” configuration that uses batteries available at local stores replacing the now obsolete BA-1574/U battery pack. (Proceed at own risk) Remove the battery cell from the strobe light. You will need to keep the brass base but everything else must go. Gently turn and lift black casing. In some cases I had to cut the casing from around the base. This may reveal the battery cells themselves. The cells contain Mercury so use caution and proper protection. Dispose of old cells properly. If one cell remains in the brass cap gently pry around the edges until it releases. Clean remaining (black) casing from inside the brass cap. Mark brass cap with the “+” sign for future reference. Install 2 CR123 batteries positive side towards brass cap screw cap on tight and voila you are done. There are kits available for this conversion if you do not want to do the above. http://www.prc68.com/I/5BA.shtml (Edited) Meant to post in gear forum. Sorry... BSBD Home of the Alabama Gang Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rlogan2 0 #2 December 13, 2007 Thanks for the information. I own several of these units and have done a lot of blue water sailing using these as emergency strobes. I wish I had computer skills to transfer your post to Seven Seas Cruising Association. I just converted one to the Lithium 123 batteries as per your instructions. Simple process. I will need to add second or larger O ring because if I tighten fully appears negative pin will penetrate battery. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
TFFTM 1 #3 December 13, 2007 Glad it worked for you. I should have mentioned the o-ring thing. That is one advantage of purchasing the conversion kit is that it is "sized" but an additional o-ring is cheaper than the 15.00 conversion kit. BSBD Home of the Alabama Gang Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
