[Elecraft] Latching relays

[Don Wilhelm]

Fred,

I certainly will not disagree with your success, nor that the epoxy will 
provide a good seal.

BUT, you were fortunate that the relay did not have any internal damage. 
  When the case of a relay is melted (even a small amount), there is a 
chance that the inside of the plastic can be distorted and will 
interfere with the movement of the contacts inside the case.

So now you know the reason I would day to replace the relay - it is the 
'safe' answer and will work in all cases.  It is difficult to discern 
whether internal damage occurred or not.  So try patching the case if 
you prefer, but do be aware of the other consequences.

If you do use some sealant, watch out for the thin sealants that may 
migrate inside the relay case and coat the contacts - if you find that 
it worked before you sealed it, and does not work after the sealing, you 
should relate those two events, so say 'AH S**T' and simply order 
another relay.

73,
Don w3FPR

Fred (FL) wrote:
> Hi - I did the same soldering-iron corner meltdown,
> on my K2 #54xx.
> 
SNIP
> 
> I know Don won't agree with me - but I'm quite
> positive - that this epoxy-over seal, is darn
> near as tight and solid as the original case.
> Its probably better material than what they make
> those latching relay cases out of!  One would
> need a chisel to break it loose.  And it is as
> sticky, as sticky can get!
> 
> Good luck -
> PS - pretty much any quality, A & B Epoxy Adhesive
> will work.  I just happen to have all these bottles
> of golf club shaft stuff
>