[Elecraft] RE: lead-free solder (plus bonus desoldering primer :)

[Bob Nielsen]

On Dec 23, 2006, at 6:55 AM, Mario Lorenz wrote:

> Ron,
>
>> I've used your "toothpick" approach, but I found it needs have  
>> very small
>> mass. I have some dental picks (donated by my dentist). Although  
>> the pointed
>> tip is small enough, with the metal handle they have way too much  
>> mass and
>> instantly solidify the solder when it's touched.
>
> I believe Wayne was talking about wooden toothpicks. They dont conduct
> heat. I've used these, or wood splinters from  snapped-in-half wooden
> matches. Good for one or two holes only, but easily replaced.
>
> Mario

I've seen tools similar to dental picks with a small metal tip and  
plastic handle (less thermal mass).  They can be helpful at times.   
Getting as much of the solder as possible removed first makes things  
much easier.

Bob, N7XY