software

Well I just got my JB today and was reading the instructions and it says to not using a soldering gun. That's what I've been using to wire up my single coils for a while so I hope they're not demagnetized. This gun is probably from the 70's so I think it's time to invest in a new iron.

What are some good low priced appropriated watted soldering irons?

I like the Radio Shack soldering station. Switches between 25 and 40w. Works great and relatively inexpensive.


Originally Posted by Devil TigerWell I just got my JB today and was reading the instructions and it says to not using a soldering gun. That's what I've been using to wire up my single coils for a while so I hope they're not demagnetized. This gun is probably from the 70's so I think it's time to invest in a new iron.

What are some good low priced appropriated watted soldering irons?

I use Radio Shack 30 and 40 watt Irons but I also have a 50 watter for soldering pickup covers and pot grounds....I sometimes use a weller soldering gun on my covers and I've not experienced anything I could say I'd notice using it...You are safer using hand soldering irons though and not the gun..

The station mentioned above is great also...I have one and mine is 20/40 watt..The 40 watt side gets plenty hot enough to solder covers and pot grounds also,in fact I used it this morning..


Originally Posted by martinsixstringcustomsI like the Radio Shack soldering station. Switches between 25 and 40w. Works great and relatively inexpensive.

I find the Radio Shack 25/40 station I got this year quite adequate for home use. However, mine takes a solid 20 minutes to reach max temp @ 40 watts. I am an electronic tech, so I am spoiled by the Hakko on my workbench.

Other things to purchase if you are more serious are liquid flux, tip cleaning compound, and desoldering braid.

Since the final result is the most important and satisfying aspect of a job well-done, do not scrimp on preparation. More specifically, NEVER allowing a hot solder iron to burn your guitar's finish or wire insulation! I use a solder iron nearly everyday, but I still make sure I protect my guitar's finish and wiring from unintentional burns by cutting a cardboard template and taping it around the body's control cavity, as well as taping as many wires as possible away from the iron's path. Make a nice template by tracing the control panel plate, and you can keep it around to re-use in the future.

Pre-tinning the thin pickup wires can increase ease of installing you pickup.

Here's mine. It's a little pricier than the Radio Shack station, but I like the dial control of the wattage/temp. That radio shack one will do what you need, though.

I have the low and high watt soldering iron from Sears, can`t beat the price for a Craftsmen.