[TowerTalk] [YCCC] Soldering old copper antenna wire?

[w1eqo at shaysnet.com]

I use:

The scrape method with an Xacto knife, slow but effective,
A file, typically a depth cutter chain saw file, or similar 1/2" fine tooth
flat file, and
Ocassionally activated liquid rosin flux if the oxidation isn't too thick.

To me the big issue is having enough heat to solder outdoors. Here I use a
300W American Beauty. If I find it someday, I'll be using a 500W model.

A long, heavy, extension cord is also a help.


Jim, W1EQO



Original Message:
-----------------
From: Tony Brock-Fisher barockteer at aol.com
Date: Sat, 12 Jan 2008 14:58:41 -0500
To: YCCC at YCCC.ORG, towertalk at contesting.com
Subject: [YCCC] Soldering old copper antenna wire?


What's the best way to clean old, brown oxidized stranded copper wire so it
can be soldered? Many times I need to modify or repair old wire antennas.
I've tried sanding with 400 grit  and also wire brushing. Nothing works
well and quickly - mostly it's tedious, and the solderability is mediocre
at best.

Any ideas?

-Tony, K1KP
_______________________________________________
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Yankee Clipper Contest Club  http://www.yccc.org
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