On 4/15/2011 12:16 PM, Wayne Conrad wrote: > I've got a new temperature controlled soldering station, but it's 60W. > I ordered 60W in case I'm ever forced to use lead-free solder (I > understand that it takes more "oomf"). The manual says that any more > than 40W and I can damage the board. Should I return this iron and get > its 40W cousin, or may I use it if I keep the temperature on "no quicker > than one second, no longer than three" as I've read here?
I don't think you'll have a problem so long as you keep the temp set not less than one, not more than 3 seconds. For my K2 using a Weller WES51, that turned out to be 750 deg. > > The local parts store didn't have the Kester 285 solder that I've seen > recommended. Out of an act of optimism I brought home some "MG > Chemicals" brand solder, #4894-454G. It says "RA Flux, 0.025" Diam., 23 > Gauge, 2.2% flux." Will that be OK, or should I return it and go > looking for better? I don't know what RA Flux is. 0.025 may be a little big unless you've had a lot of soldering experience. I used Alpha 63/37 "Energized Rosin," 0.015 dia because I had a 1 lb roll. It is very fine, and very easy to control the amount of solder. Some of the connections in the K2 are a little tight physically and too much solder can short. The disadvantage with that fine a solder is you easily lose the piece you're using once you lay it down on the bench. > > I'm cleaning off the hobby bench now. Other than reading books, this is > the first real step in my new hobby. I'm supposed to be resting (I'm > home sick today), but I can't get myself to lay down when I've got this > waiting for me. Go slow, check each part against the reference designator, value, location on the board, and orientation at least twice. You will install several parts and then solder them all. I count connections on a piece of paper as I install, and then count each one as I solder it. I didn't have any unsoldered connections. Best not to work on your radio when you are tired or stressed or in a hurry. And probably a good idea to let it sit if you've had a glass of wine or a beer with dinner. :-) Good luck, you will really like the radio. 73, Fred K6DGW - Northern California Contest Club - CU in the 2011 Cal QSO Party 1-2 Oct 2011 - www.cqp.org ______________________________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
