Homemade Hot Air Soldering Tool

From: Bryan Blackburn <oldcomp_at_cox.net>
Date: Fri May 23 04:23:00 2003

>looks like the PSI100K might even be better than the one I have, and
>cheaper too.)
>
>
On rechecking, it doesn't appear this model has a hot air attachment.
Make sure that's part of the package before you buy one. Probably the
best model is the WST2, for ease of use. Beware that this model uses
some plastic parts, and will not survive a good floor drop! (I'm on my
third one in five years!). I have also used the WSTA3, but although more
durable, I find it bulky and I prefer the smaller model. Avoid the P1KC.
It's crap.

>My only cost concern is fuel - if I can buy a tank for refilling
>butane lighters, it's a win. If I have to buy vendor-filled
>cartridges, that's less attractive.
>
>
Fear not! These are refillable from standard lighter-refill style butane
tanks. Although you MUST use a very high quality butane fuel (using
cheap consumer grade fuel from the local convenience store will
seriously shorten the iron's life span), the fuel is available in nearly
every electronic parts store I've ever been, and quite cheap. My 5 oz.
can of "Ultratane" has lasted me more than a year. I can't remember how
much it cost, but it wasn't more than $10 a can.

-Bryan
Received on Fri May 23 2003 - 04:23:00 BST