Soldering Iron

[Nick23]

What type of solder would you need to use on a CB board. Any brand recommendations for an iron?

Thanks

 

[binrat]

This is what I bought a few years ago and is still going strong.
Xytronic LF-369D - Palco Electronics

 

[Robb]

Weller TC-201 soldering station w/PTS7 soldering tip works very well for me.

Also use this solder sucker for one-hand operation:

 

[RatsoW8]

I bought a digital solder station from Radio Shack a few years ago on sale. Best buy I ever made for soldering. Adjustable heat from 300 to 900 deg F so you have the right heat for any electronic soldering job.

 

[Captain Kilowatt]

Can't go wrong with Weller or Hakko soldering irons or stations. For solder regular 60/40 rosin core is best. If you can find 63/37 it is a bit better. Some solders have 2 or 3% silver content and are even better.Try and avoid the lead free crap. I have stocked up on several pounds of 60/40 or 62.5/34.5/3 where the 3% is silver.I have tried the lead free crap and detest it to no end. I started soldering about 38 years ago and still believe lead is required in a decent solder.

 

[KC9Q]

Regarding solder: Use either Kester 60/40 or 63/37 rosin core solder. Size is up to you, however, 0.62" or 0.50" would work for large components; maybe 0.32" or so for smaller components.

 

[Captain Kilowatt]

Regarding solder: Use either Kester 60/40 or 63/37 rosin core solder. Size is up to you, however, 0.62" or 0.50" would work for large components; maybe 0.32" or so for smaller components.

I think you missed a zero. Half inch diameter solder is a little much for circuit board work.

 

[CbRadiosPRONTO]

Radio shack 60/40. .031

 

[psycho]

Radio shack 60/40. .031

I agree.....Radio Shack solder is excellent.

 

[sonoma]

I like the Hakko solder station I have. heats up fast. turn it on and pull the screws off the radio to look inside and the iron is ready to use.

 

[KC9Q]

Yes Doc,

Should have been 0.062", 0.050", and 0.032" Kester 60/40 rosin core. I've used Radio Shack solder, but noticed the newer stuff not as good as the older solder. So it's back to Kester for me. Just a personal preference.

 

[Captain Kilowatt]

Doc.? :blink: Could have sworn someone else said that. I agree with Kester. They are pretty much the defacto standard I think. Been using it for over 35 years and still have a couple pounds stock piled.