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5mm LEDs ok substitute for 3mm in a pinch?

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  • Member since
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5mm LEDs ok substitute for 3mm in a pinch?
Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 13, 2012 7:40 PM

Darn, in the middle of converting an S3 and ran out of 3mm LEDs.   I see I can fit a 5mm into one of the ends.

This may be a silly question, but would there be a problem?  Would this 20mA 5mm clear LED in my hand run as cool and fine as my last 3mm in the other end of the loco?  The 5mm is about the same physical size as the present bulb so fit will not be an issue.

Thanks

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  • From: Northeast OH
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Posted by tstage on Tuesday, March 13, 2012 7:50 PM

Cisco,

As long as you can center it in the front headlight lens and it won't be protruding through the shell, it should be fine.  The size of an LED shouldn't make any difference in regards to temperature.

Tom

https://tstage9.wixsite.com/nyc-modeling

Time...It marches on...without ever turning around to see if anyone is even keeping in step.

  • Member since
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  • From: Bradford, Ontario
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Posted by hon30critter on Tuesday, March 13, 2012 8:18 PM

Cisco Kid

I have used all different sizes of LEDs in similar installations without any problems.

Dave

I'm just a dude with a bad back having a lot of fun with model trains, and finally building a layout!

  • Member since
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  • From: S.E. Adirondacks, NY
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Posted by modelmaker51 on Tuesday, March 13, 2012 8:21 PM

LED temperatures will never be an issue, regardless or size or type. LEDs just don't get more than luke warm if that much.

Jay 

C-415 Build: https://imageshack.com/a/tShC/1 

Other builds: https://imageshack.com/my/albums 

  • Member since
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  • From: Reading, PA
  • 30,002 posts
Posted by rrinker on Wednesday, March 14, 2012 6:30 AM

 As long as it physically fits and it the same color as the 3mm one in the other end. Otherwise, physical size is the only difference.

                  --Randy

 


Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's

 

Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.

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