I would have thought the multi-core was better too, I was surprised by
the results I had. You have my sympathy on the Lead-Free. I don't know
about anyone else, but me and Lead-Free haven't gotten along to well
so far. Outside of plumbing (the no lead plumbing solder seems to
still sweat pipes just fine) I haven't liked the lead-free results. It
just doesn't seem to reflow like the tin-lead does. Takes a lot more
heat which crusties up the tip faster and also is hard on some of my
boards. Sure not like the Kester '44'. Maybe I need to switch to
using a torch for the pcb's too ;-)
- phil
>
> Thanks for the recommendation, i should've asked before buying.
> I've used it now for a few days, and it's OK for most stuff. Doesn't
> leave much visible flux residue so that's something good, i suppose.
>
> Maybe if i leave the bad solder out on the bench it'll grow legs,
worth a try.
> (That'll teach them :-) )
>
> But i'm afraid i might not get to buy the Kester 63/37, they are
> pestering us about leadfree....
>
> ST
>
> On 8/21/07, pgdion1 <pgdion1@...> wrote:
> > I had the same experience. We have some of the 5 core / multi-core
> > stuff at work and it's performance is poor. Either not enough flux or
> > the flux isn't as good, not sure which. I won't use it anymore at all.
> > I like the Kester 63/37 RA '44' solders. They're also available in
> > 60/40 but I prefer 63/37. Good wetting, nice flow with clean bright
> > joints, and the tips of the iron stay in much better shape.
> >
> > I also keep some Kester paste flux on hand as well. It's great for
> > tinning boards. I smear a thin layer over the board with my finger and
> > then drag a long tip sideways (so the side of the tip contacts the
> > board) over the board, I can tin a whole board in a few seconds. It's
> > getting harder to find but it's Kester Rosin Paste Flux SP-44. Handy
> > to have on hand when you just want a little dap someplace and not the
> > puddle from the liquid stuff. Just don't leave it out on the bench as
> > everyone thinks it's tip cleaner for some reason :-|
> >
> > Phil
>