[Boatanchors] HAKKO 808 Desoldering Gun

[Paul Christensen]

The only problem I encounter with the Hakko 808 is that it often fails to
remove all solder when trying to de-solder a component from a PC board
ground pad - sometimes even with thermal pads that isolate from the ground
pour.  The pour acts as a heat sink.  It would be helpful if the Hakko had a
means to quickly boost temperature for those applications.  As I recall,
there's a temp adjustment but I'm suggesting a quick means to boost the tip
temperature.  I also agree with the suggestion that the cylinder passageway
should be cleaned immediately after use with the long piercing wire that's
supplied by Hakko.   

I also use several Soldapult tools.  When I worked for RKO Radio out of
college, my boss taught me to use silicone spray to clean the cylinder and
O-ring.  Cleaning is complete if you can place the Soldapult tip onto the
palm of your hand and when the plunger is released, it should not move until
the tip breaks from the hand.  

My first de-soldering station was made by Ungar.  Horrible device.  The tip
would quickly clog and cleaning was difficult.  After a short period time,
the vacuum pump failed.  It was easier to throw it in the trash than send it
back to Ungar.  That was back in the late 1980s.  Since then, Soldapults and
wick have been used here until I purchased the Hakko a few years ago.

Paul, W9AC