[corndog71]

I’ve been using cheap 40 watt soldering irons for over a decade.  No problems.

[nlitworld]

First off, if you're running your iron off a basic extension cord in the garage, or even a power strip, try to eliminate those. I've found direct to wall plug-in or using heavy duty 12g extension cord better. Secondly, heat the wire for 10-20s before touching solder to the joint for big connections. That should heat the metal enough and allow it to flow better. And I've found a broad point 30w Weller does a better job than a fine point 45w other brand. When you get your big gun, keep us posted how it works. You could probably stick weld with that thing. Lol. Also hopefully you're using some good solder like the Cardas or similar. If using lead free solder, that stuff sucks with a super high melt point. Carcinogenic metals for the win! I've desoldered pcb before with big blobs of that lead free stuff and it took using 2 solder guns to heat enough. 

[robwm]

Could you give me more details on the type of solder that you know will work? I've been using solder that came with these kits. I thought it might be suspect. The flux that comes with the kits is not great either.

[JCarney]

Cardas Quad Eutectic Solder is what was suggested to me.



JCarney

[nlitworld]

Cardas Quad Eutectic Solder is what was suggested to me.

Gold standard right there. I'm sure Danny is sending out competent product with his kits, but unsure if this is what's supplied or not. Only time I've varied from this was soldering surface mount pcb parts and needed Itty bitty skinny solder. Added bonus, Sonic Craft always has in stock and usually get in 3 days or so.

[robwm]

Danny's solder works great but I ran out of that.

[KTS]

Cardas Quad Eutectic Solder is what was suggested to me.



JCarney

That solder works well, it was recommended to me as well and it’s all I use now. 

I struggled to solder tube connectors at first as well, but getting a lot of solder on your tip and use a larger chisel tip with more heat, 850 is where I set my iron. Give the wires time to heat, if you are concerned about overheating components, use clip on heat sinks to give you peace of mind. I also use flux to help the solder flow, you should be able to see it flow all the way through the tube connector.