[Boatanchors] soldering/desoldering on boatanchors

[J. Forster]

Eugene Hertz wrote:

> [snip] I was wondering if anyone has used this successfully on boatanchors? You will notice the last item I listed. It is a wide nozzle with an opening of 2.3mm which I thought could be very usefull for larger solder joints.

I've used and recommended a Pace (PPS-5, SX-300) desoldering machine for years. IMO, it's the way to go. Nothing fancy and repairable. Look for them used on eBay or elsewhere.

> What say ye great list members?
>
> More soldering questions.
> 1. What type of solder should I be using? silver? 60/40?

Except on Tek terminal strips. Eutectic is somewhat better though.

> Or perhaps I should ask what solder to avoid?

Avoid acid core and non rosin fluxes.

> 2. I picked up some rosin soldering flux from radio shack, but it is so thick like bees wax, I cant brush it on.  Anyone have a recommendation for this?

Dilute with alcohol.

> 3. Anyone recommend some solder wick? (I hope I wont need it if I get the hakko desoldering but its probably good to have on hand).

Get some junk RG-174 coax  and strip out the braid or new small braid. Flatten it with your fingers. Dip in the flux (#2 above). Use like Solder Wick. IMO, fresh flux works better.

> 4. Is there a good online retailer for this accessory stuff?

eBay ??? Or a flea market.

-John

> thanks all!
> Eugene
> PS, I know there are many products out there such as weller, paco, xyltronics but I thought I'd try the hakkos.