The maniac who's been losing all night and is now shoving light is not on a strategy - he's on tilt. His range is completely uncapped and completely unpredictable. This is the most dangerous version of this player type.

Why they do it

A losing maniac at $1/$2 stops thinking and starts reacting. He's trying to get even in one hand. That means he'll shove draws, shove air, and occasionally shove the nuts all in the same orbit. You can't put him on a range because he doesn't have one right now.

The adjustment

Only play big pots with the top of your range. Don't try to pick spots with marginal hands. Wait for something strong and let him do the rest. He'll put the money in for you.

What it's worth

Getting into a big pot with a losing maniac holding a marginal hand because you thought you had a read is how good sessions turn bad. Wait for the nuts. Let him pay you off.