Thanks..you got me going....

Price wasn’t really as high of a priority as reliability and serviceability. I’ve returned my NiteRider digital 6v twice and all three I have had had similar issues. And I am sure you realize the dilemma of loosing your lights for a couple of weeks in the middle of the winter.
So, I am sure I spent more than most, but I rationalized it by saying I can always use the batteries (the most expense) for other things and I already had a good charger (about $80). What is reflected below is what I actually have in the finished product. Plus if it breaks, I can fix it.

I came real close to going with the drill battery thing, but couldn’t design a holder that I thought was convenient, plus I really don’t need another drill.

lights $ 22.98
bulbs $ 11.50
wire $ 4.57
connectors $ 10.87
switches $ 8.50
pipe already had
pipe fittings $ 8.25
flasher $ 9.95
batteries (24) $ 83.82
fuse holder $ 3.75
battery holders $ 8.25
TOTAL $ 172.44