Low tech problem - which was do batteries go in my torch?!

pandora205

I know this is probably a stupid question but I've taken batteries out of a large torch and tried to put new ones in but I can't get it working. The bulb appears to be fine. I'm not sure if anyone can advise me via net but here is the description:

The torch unscrews around the rim and the bulb and section comes off. Underneath is the space for four batteries - big Duracell Ultra M3s (not sure of the generic size). The batteries 'stack' two underneath and two on top. At the bottom are a couple of 'prongs' sticking up. I've tried putting them all face down (ie pointy bit down!), face up, left hand both down and right hand up, bottom left down and right up and vice versa. I've even tried them all pointing into the middle (even I know this can't be right!)

Any clues as to the correct way? Or do new batteries lose their power, as these have been in my shed for a few years?

Thanks

pandora205

No. Nothing that I can see anyway (I've looked inside).

pandora205

I tried to but the battery has just gone on my camera! As I keep the spares in my shed and there's no light in there (and no torch to find them ) I'll have to attempt a better description.
The important bit is the battery compartment, which has space for two batteries over another two.
And I know the poles shouldn't be put together like that but I was getting desperate!

I was hoping to use the torch so that I could put some stuff back in the loft tonight. It's a bit of a jumble up there, though there is a light if I can negotiate the junk to reach it.

pandora205

I tried that but still nothing. There don't seem to be springs as such, just little metal pieces (sort of flaps) sticking up on both sides at the bottom of the torch.

Do batteries go out of date? These are pretty old.

bookduck

pandora205 wrote: »

... As I keep the spares in my shed ...

An outside shed? Cold? Damp? Moisture? Condensation? Flat batteries?

On duracell batteries that are stored in a cupboard are of some use, even if they are 3 years old.

hardpressed

Won't help tonight but get yourself a wind up torch for a few pounds in Wilkinsons.

pandora205

These are probably 10 years old too..... I bet they're no good. I just put my tongue on the end and nothing (just as well!) so I guess they've gone flat.

pandora205

hardpressed wrote: »

Won't help tonight but get yourself a wind up torch for a few pounds in Wilkinsons.

It would be much simpler at times like this! This torch usually lives in the boot of my car for emergencies, so I'd better sort it - or get another simpler one - in the next few days.

Meanwhile I'll stumble around in the loft and see if I can clear some of this junk tonight.

bookduck

hardpressed wrote: »

Won't help tonight but get yourself a wind up torch for a few pounds in Wilkinsons.

Mine is not from Wilkinsons, but they are both the best and worst product ever. You keep having to wind the things up every few mins, however they always work!

Moneymaker

I think you need to know how to use a multimeter.

chickmug

pandora205 wrote: »

I know this is probably a stupid question but I've taken batteries out of a large torch and tried to put new ones in but I can't get it working. The bulb appears to be fine. I'm not sure if anyone can advise me via net but here is the description

http://www.7dayshop.com/catalog/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=&products_id=88787

I suggest one of these.
Cheap enough.