[TowerTalk] Lead-free solder (was Off-Brand Connectors and Adapters)

[Bill Aycock]

I had to go to lead-free solder for some objects normally used in the hand 
(Walking sticks). I got the Ag-Sn stuff and its proper flux at a local 
building supplies store. It is a Tin based solder with a small amount of 
Silver to make a near-Eutectic mix, around 3%, I think.

I have had absolutely NO problem using it with a torch or Weller guns of two 
different Wattages. In fact I sometimes pre-Tin with the Weller before 
clamping  assemblies together  and making the final fusion with a torch.

After using the lead-free stuff for that, I also used it for UHF connecters. 
Worked fine.

Bill-W4BSG

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Rick Karlquist" <richard at karlquist.com>
To: "Jim Brown" <jim at audiosystemsgroup.com>
Cc: "towertalk reflector" <towertalk at contesting.com>
Sent: Thursday, February 05, 2009 7:03 PM
Subject: Re: [TowerTalk] Off-Brand Connectors and Adapters


> Jim Brown wrote:
>
>> I am disgusted by ham vendors (including RF Connection) who sell
>> imitation DIN connectors that I can't solder to!  Real DIN
>> connectors (Switchcraft, Preh) cost $5-$10.
>
> With the move to lead free (ROHS), nothing will be easy to solder
> to.  The trick will be to apply the right flux to the part
> to get it tinned (with leaded solder).  The flux that comes with
> the solder isn't sufficient.
>
> Rick N6RK
>