N Gauge Forum

General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: Ed on January 02, 2024, 11:56:09 AM

Title: Cordless Soldering Iron
Post by: Ed on January 02, 2024, 11:56:09 AM
Has anyone used a cordless Soldering Iron for soldering wires to track and hard wiring DCC decoders etc.?

I wouldn't think they're suitable for assembling white metal kits or larger jobs, but is that the case?


Also, is it better to get a gas powered or electric, and if electric rechargeable batteries or replaceable batteries?


Ed





Title: Re: Cordless Soldering Iron
Post by: Dorsetmike on January 02, 2024, 12:47:34 PM
If you can afford it I'd say go for a Weller temperature controlled "soldering station" I'm still using one that is over 40 years old and still doing all I want from white metal kits to track, as well as electronic work - PCBs  etc
Title: Re: Cordless Soldering Iron
Post by: ntpntpntp on January 02, 2024, 01:58:20 PM
Generally I'd stick to a mains powered soldering station or mains soldering iron for wiring work.  A temperature controlled iron is best for kit assembly etc.   
It's easier to obtain and fit different size bits/tips for Antex and Weller etc. mains irons.

That said, I do have a Parkside rechargeable "pen" style iron from Lidl and that works pretty well, however the tip is a bit fat for getting between N gauge sleepers to add track feeds or carry out fine work fitting decoders etc. It comes with me to exhibitions in my tool box in case of emergencies :)  I bought a second one for my son to carry around in his band gigging tools.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/404306894173 (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/404306894173)
(https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/CZgAAOSw3-9kcNEd/s-l1600.jpg)


In the past I've had gas powered soldering pens and open-flame micro blowtorches but they all got put aside after little use.