Basic soldering question

[Aardvark]

I got frustrated trying to solder wires to pots with an old underpowered Weller, so I got a larger Radio Shack unit which has temp settings up to at least 750 degrees. I still end up with a nasty wad of semi-molten solder at the back of the pot. What's the cure? Thanks.

[testing1two]

two things: the first is prep. meaning you should either clean the back of the pot with a little alcohol or scuff the casing with a little file or sandpaper in the area you plan to solder. The second thing is good rosin core solder. I prefer to use a smaller gauge of solder as it has less rosin. If you are going to take your soldering to "the next level" then it's all about silver solder and a good soldering station. Remember, it's not only about how hot the iron gets, its about how fast you can get the job done so you don't heat the components or the wire.

[EADGBE]

Don't forget to use heat sinks. These micro 1-1/8" smooth clips from Radi Shack are great for the job.

http://rsk.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pRS1C-2160140w345.jpg

[Dave C]

It's all about the heat transfer. Soldering a large area like the back of a pot or a chassis ground in an amp requires a larger tip than what you would use for #26 wire. The temp for either will be the same...the larger tip will maintain temp while a small tip cools off too quick. Size the tip to the largest part of the joint.

[Aardvark]

Thanks for the responses. I have done careful prep of the pot, scraping the back, adding trace of flux, then using rosin core solder. Still a mess. Maybe I'll try a larger tip.

[VictoriluxEL84]

Definitely try a big fat tip. Works fine. Make sure you apply a dab of solder to the tip which is critical to good heat transfer. The tip should be applied so that it makes good contact with the metal pot casing so the solder will flow evenly and will not result in a "cold" solder joint. And like testing1two said, get the job done quickly. I have also had success with the high wattage electric solder gun with the trigger you find at Radio Shack. Just be quick about it. Good luck.

[Aardvark]

Thanks again!