Soldering station recommendation

[CbRadiosPRONTO]

I've been using a weller wes51 soldering iron for several years. I seen to have to replace the soldering pencil too often.

Does anybody have any recommendation for a new soldering station?


CbRadiosPRONTO

 

[CbRadiosPRONTO]

Would like to stay under $150 mark.


CbRadiosPRONTO

 

[longhaireddwb]

I use a jap or china model called Aoyue Int 937.

I think I got it at Radio Shack. Works great for me and I've been using it for about 5 years.

I also recently bought a Hakco 808 desoldering gun. The best damn desoldering gun I've ever owned. Wont use anything else ever again. Love it. The best Christmas present I had the wife buy for me ever! :blushing:

 

[GnG8d]

I've used the wes51 for years and never had a single hiccup. What's happening that you need to keep replacing pencils?

 

[binrat]

I have been using the XYTRONIC LF-369D for the last 5 years. For $50 it is a good system. I bought it from Palco electronics if you wish to know.

 

[Mudfoot]

http://www.eevblog.com/forum/blog/eevblog-596-world's-cheapest-soldering-station-yihua-936/

 

[Robb]

Cool.

EEVblog #596 - World's Cheapest Soldering Station - Yihua 936 - Page 1

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0GdV7XBae74#t=317

 

[CbRadiosPRONTO]

I don't know Robb. I have a third one going out in the last 3 years.


CbRadiosPRONTO

 

[Robb]

Used a Weller for the last four years w/o a problem.
Get a real Hakko and tells us what you think in the short run; and then the long run.
I'd buy that cheapie station just to have a cheap backup that uses Hakko tips.

EDIT:

The 'cheapie' isn't cheap. It might sell for $16; but the shipping is $30. What a rip!
If it were me; I would try the Hakko 888.
http://www.amazon.com/Digital-FX888...4&sr=8-7&keywords=hakko+936+soldering+station

 

[CbRadiosPRONTO]

Shipping was $12 and change, but they're in back order.


CbRadiosPRONTO

 

[RatsoW8]

I've been using the rat shack digital for the last 5 years and have no complaints at all about it and it's reasonably priced. It's Model: 64-053

 

[El Phantasamo]

If you can budget it, I suggest a used Metcal.

At first I had bidders remorse that I just spent $300 on a soldering iron.
Once it and I powered it up, I had no regrets.

Tip cartridges control your heat and are easy to swap out.
Goes from dead cold to soldering temp in FIFTEEN SECONDS
Probably the lightest, most comfortable soldering iron you can buy.

 

[CbRadiosPRONTO]

Hmm. Thanks for the recommendation. That may be my next one.

AlliedElec.com is sending me a replacement tip for free.

Thanks for all the input my friends.


CbRadiosPRONTO

 

[2FB327]

Hakko 888 has been great, I watched for a few week and saved some money.
Hakko FX888D-23BY | ESD-Safe Soldering/Rework Stations

 

[CbRadiosPRONTO]

Curious. What temp do you run your irons at for typical cb radio soldering?


CbRadiosPRONTO