[R-390] Suggestions for better soldering iron or techniques?

[wli via R-390]

Barry:

At the risk of getting flamed, I have been using an Unger wood-burning tool for soldering since the 50's. Mine happens to be attached to a Variac so that I can drop the tip temperatures as needed. I make up my own copper tips from round stock, cutting threads for use. In my case, this has served me for 50% of what I do. Spare 50W and 37.5W elements are around, since no one wants them anymore.

For heavier work, I like my dual heat Weller 8200 soldering gun. 

I have had the best luck de-soldering small stuff like PC boards with an expensive Hakko 808. There is nothing wrong with braid for other tasks.

Desoldering small shielded cables is indeed difficult. Sometimes, you just have to either cut flush and redo the ends, or simply run a new shielded cable. Splices are a real bad idea.

W. Li