Tool choices

Ask questions about DIY board assembly issues, fault finding and testing. (Covers all Megasquirt versions and board.)

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sen2two
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Tool choices

Post by sen2two »

This is the soldering iron I have. Do I need something more precise or better tips?

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00B3SG7F0

Also, I have been using the solder that came with it for all my wiring on my car. But I want to make sure I use the correct solder to do my MS build.

Any preffered brands or types?
kjones6039
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Re: Tool choices

Post by kjones6039 »

Same brand I have been using for about 50 years! The only recommendation I would offer is, ditch the lead free solder included with the iron and pick up some 60/40 rosin core at Radio Shack.

Otherwise, the Weller iron ought to serve your needs quite well.

Ken
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DaveEFI
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Re: Tool choices

Post by DaveEFI »

I'd say a non temperature controlled 40 watt would get too hot, especially for lead solder. Ideal temperature for leaded is around 450C. It's not that you can't solder with an iron at a higher temperature, but there's more chance of damage to components. And the iron bits will wear more quickly and need more cleaning at high temps.

I'd go for a low voltage temperature controlled solder station. Can be bought pretty cheaply these days. Usually 24v 50 or 60 watt. Other thing to look for is a silicone lead to the iron. Much more flexible, and won't get damaged by touching with a hot iron.

Also, use 60/40 cored solder in 0.6 or 0.7mm diameter from a decent electronics supplier. The smaller size is much easier to use for most electronics than the usual 1.2mm stuff.
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pbreaction
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Re: Tool choices

Post by pbreaction »

If you can spare the expense i would get one of these soldering irons

http://www.amazon.com/Weller-WES51-Anal ... ering+iron

this solder would work well

http://www.amazon.com/Kester-Rosin-Core ... rds=solder

iron cleaning
http://www.amazon.com/Hakko-599B-02-Sol ... _469_img_z

heat shrink

http://www.amazon.com/Anytime-Tools-Shr ... ink+tubing

wire stripper

http://www.amazon.com/TEKTON-3797-7-Inc ... e+stripper



You would be able to conquer pretty much any soldering need if you have this equipment.

Quality is worth the cost... it pains me to see people spend 100's / 1000's on machines and go cheap on tools.

you dont buy a Ferrari and then go to the used tire shop and put 25.00 tires on it.
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