[AH] Trim-pot debacle (ADVICE PLEASE!)

[KA4HJH]

>>I'd also try levering the thing (whatever it may be) loose with a
>screwdriver (I have a specially modified soldering aid for this). Just a
>little bit at a time, here and there. And watch out for bent or crimped
>leads sticking in the holes.
>
>I'd say never lever or wiggle the part. It will only result in the pads
>coming loose.

You have to do this VERY carefully while applying heat! Very light pressure
and work quickly. You can tell pretty quickly whether or not it's going to
budge. If it doesn't, stop immediately. And you need a good,
temperature-controlled soldering iron that can supply lots of heat without
overheating the board.

>Use a good solder sucker and then push on the pins with a screwdriver from
>the solder side, if necessary.

This is usually necessary to straighten the pins. And don't use a cheap
solder sucker, they're worthless.

>My advice: get a good solder sucker and practice with it!

Believe me, I have *thousands* of hours of pratice. I've had plenty of time
to work on technique. This is not for beginners.


Terry Bowman, KA4HJH
"The Mac Doctor"