Lithium batteries for winder R??

[iphoenix]

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With my RE came a Motor Winder R s/no. 61848. I expected to be able to use my Ni-MH rechargeable batteries, but find that most of them (the 2300 ma. ones) are too long to allow the battery carrier to fit into the winder. I have some Lithium (non-rechargeable) batteries which I would like to use, but am concerned about their voltage. The instructions which came with the winder do not mention Lithiums. Can my winder safely use 6 Lithiums (at 1.7 volts each) instead of 6 1.2 volt rechargeables or 6 1.5 volt alkalines?

[mmradman]

Are we talking AA size batteries? If your Ni-Mh are classed as AA than they should fit, if not they may be different or your winder, model i am not familiar with, require different size cells.

 

Again no first hand experience with Ni-Mh except once with my wireless phone few years back, required replacement with one of the exact Ah rating for phone to work again, very annoying.

 

For normal AA cells either alkaline or lithium or any other nominal 1.5V cells should work, minor +/- voltage variation shouldn't be a problem (famous last words). Key difference between different cell technologies is capacity and performance at lower temperatures.

[bull40]

I have used very successfully for many years alkaline, lithium and nimh batteries in both my R4 and R Winders, on a variety of bodies including my RE. I can't imagine what variation there is with the AA nimh batteries that you have. That is very odd. I would try another brand, maybe? As far as Lithium, I appreciate their lighter weight in this application. I think the Winders were engineered prior to Lithium battery technology being released, so the documentation probably would not mention their usage. Best of luck to you! I love that RE with winder R and grip kit. I've run thousands of rolls of film through mine.

[iphoenix]

Yes, they are AA batteries. The 2300ma Ni-MH batteries are just a tiny bit longer than normal AA length, which results in the battery carrier not locking into position on the drive. What concerns me also about the Lithiums is that when the drive is fitted, the camera also uses the drive's battery power. Neither camera nor drive instructions cover this.

[iphoenix]

Thanks John, I just realised the instructions for both were printed in 1990, so you are right. Also, yes, the grip and winder really feel good to use - probably better with the lighter Lithiums.