[Elecraft] Question about using Icom AH-4 with K2 + solder question

[Vic Rosenthal]

DAVE HEALY wrote:

> Secondly, what's the deal with solder?  The manual says Kester "44"
> 60/40 and specifically says don't use anything with a silver content
> (unless told to do so).  But in many places on the Elecraft site it
> mentions using the Kester 45 series clean solder with a 2% silver
> content (one place was the March, 2000 QST review). Should I get some
> or has the solder thinking been revised over the years?

I built my K2 (#709) with the then-recommended silver-bearing solder, 
and found it entirely satisfactory.  The reason that non-silver solder 
is now recommended is that it is easier to remove from component holes 
if you must fix a mistake or wish to make a modification.  I've done 
almost all of the "A to B" modifications plus a number of others, using 
solder wick and a GC solder popper (but mostly just the wick) to remove 
solder when needed.  I like the characteristics of the silver-bearing 
solder and continue to use it.

73
Vic K2VCO