[Boatanchors] solder guns

[Mike Clarson]

Gerry: The D550 has always been my choice for anything heavy duty, but I
have had an 8200 since the mid sixties, and it has always worked well. Maybe
you got one of the odd 8200's (someone was selling them at Dayton) that run
on 240 volts. Running it on 120 would sure take some of the steam out of it!
I have had a new one open, and it looks pretty much the same as my old one,
except for a few case issues and the method for attaching the tip. BTW, I
have used some of the steel tips, and they are much worse than the copper
ones. --Mike, WV2ZOW

Subject: [Boatanchors] solder guns




Gerry


Collecting & Restoring since 1959
Gerald Steffens P.E.
Oronoco, MN


In my restoration work, I have found that my 100/140 watt solder gun is
somewhat inadequate for some work where there is large areas soldered to
chassis, rf shields or other large items.

This gun is newer.  It seems like my old Weller from about 1962 had a
lot more punch than the new ones.  I seem to remember that I also had a
Weller that was rated about 250 watts at one point.

Am I crazy or don't the newer guns make the grade?  Does anyone know
where one might find one of the old high wattage guns?  Or What?  I have
looked at the dreaded place.  I think maybe Sears may have a high
wattage unit?

Gerry