solder won't stick to surface, any suggestions?

ss81 · #1 05-21-2006, 10:47 AM

I'm having a little bit of difficulty here trying to replace a mini-toggle switch. The original one had a wire going from one of the lugs to the side of the switch, and I can't seem to get the solder to stick to the side of the new switch. Any suggestions would be appreciated!

Basshole · #2 05-21-2006, 11:20 AM

Lightly dremel the surface (or file it). There may be a layer of clear or anodizing on the control body that won't allow solder to stick.

Pre-tin the area before trying to solder again.

Puru · #3 05-21-2006, 11:58 AM

I had a similar problem that was solved by using flux and a higher wattage (40 watt) soldering iron. The 15 watt iron wouldn't get the pot itself hot enough. That, combined with scuffing the surface should do the trick.

SMPTE · #4 05-21-2006, 02:01 PM

Go to a hobby shop and get a set of those Testor's sanding films for a few bucks, use the medium film to get the oxidation off what you're going to solder. You also may try "tinning" the lead before you attach it. What you do is place the tip behind the exposed copper wire (away from the insulation) and melt a little solder into the wire. To tin the spot you're soldering too, place the tip right next to it for a few seconds and then try to melt the solder on the metal right next to where the tip is. A 15 watter may not be gutsy enough to get a big pot hot, but be very careful that you don't get the pot too hot and melt any of the plastic bits that may be inside.

Don't forget to clean the tip, a wet small sponge works well. When you're done with the iron, unplug it and melt some solder on the tip to keep it from oxidizing and wearing out too early.

Good luck.

tadawson · #5 05-21-2006, 10:59 PM

And make sure that your solder is flux cored, and not acid based. If you somehome ended up with solid, non-fluxed solder, you will never get it to work . . . .

- Tim

ss81 · #6 05-22-2006, 09:53 AM

Thanks a lot for all the info, I appreciate it!

SMPTE · #7 05-22-2006, 11:22 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tadawson

And make sure that your solder is flux cored, and not acid based. If you somehome ended up with solid, non-fluxed solder, you will never get it to work . . . .

- Tim

Yeah! what he said

It may be worth your time to surf the web for a night on soldering techniques. Radio Shack or Fry's might also have soldering practice kits you can grab to get experience. Different kinds of solder melt at different temps, and you'll need to learn what to look for after you've done it to make sure you don't have a cold solder joint etc.

Good luck!