how do I desolder track joints? I’ve tried desoldering braid, but it doesn’t work. How does everyone else do it?
A primitive method - use soldering flux, the type that doesn’t contain acids. It helps transfer the heat from the iron to the soldered joint, apply it to the joint you want to desolder. When the solder melts, quickly brush it away with a paintbrush, preferably an old one, with hard and short bristles. I think the soldering iron should be at least 40 watt, but not really sure.
Hope this helps.
Regards,
Oliver
well theres a couple things to try one very primitive method (moreso then above) would be to heat the soldered joint till i melts and simply pull the joint apart. there is also a desoldering tool (radio shack has them) that u can use to suck the smelted solder out of the joint.
Hope this helps
Chris
Radio Shack also has or had a suction device witha teflon tip. You squeezed a bulb until a trigger system kept it collapsed and then when the solder melted you stuck the teflon tube in it and pulled the trigger which allowed the bulb to expand and suck up the solder.
I recommend doing one side at a time and use a soldering gun at 140 watts for quick high heat and let the excess solder flow back to gun tip that you keep wiping off with a damp sponge. Pu***he joiner back while the solider is molten. Before the joint can cool give the track a little shake.
Here is a good source for soldering and DCC
http://www.wiringfordcc.com/solder.htm