I have some cables that require a solder pot to reterminate. I discovered this after removing the banana plugs. I'm checking ebay for a used solder pot, there are a few of them listed. Anbody have any advice on a good one?
Also maybe some advice on the process of removing the polymer coating once I get the pot. Thanks.
I really like my little Hexacon mini pot. They're about $70 new. And I'd definitely recommend getting the 800 degree version if you're going to be using it to tin enameled wire.
As for process, first thing to do is make yourself a skimmer for the dross (the oxide and other gunk that accumulates on the solder's surface). I use a steel paperclip, straighened out and with about a 3/8" "L" bent into one end.
Heat the solder pot for at least half an hour to make sure the solder is up to full temp. Because solder melts at a realtively lower temperature, just because it's molten doesn't mean its reached full temp. And if it hasn't, you can end up with a mess at the end of your wires.
When you're ready to dip, use the skimmer and carefully skim the surface dross off to one side and into the dross tray, leaving a nice shiny silver surface.
To dip, start at one edge of the pot and slowly dip the end of the wire into the solder as you move the wire toward the center of the pot. By the time you get to the center of the pot you want the wire to be dipped to the point that you want it tinned. Stop for a brief moment at the center and then continue moving to the opposite edge of the as you bring it up out of the solder.
The reason you want to keep the wire moving is if you dip it straight in, and pull it straight out, it tends to pull the residue of the enameling up along with it and ruining what should be a nice tinned wire. Keeping it moving leaves a trail of residue behind the wire, preventing it from ruining the tinned end.
Hope this helps.
Good luck!
