micky wrote:

On Sat, 27 Aug 2011 08:12:38 -0700, "William Sommerwerck"
wrote:

"micky" wrote in message
.. .
http://www.tegger.com/hondafaq/mainrelayfix/index.html

"Removal of old solder: As much of the old solder as possible was
removed in preparation for re-soldering. It is possible to simply
re-flow the old solder, but this method is better."

It's the way I've always done it.

Sometimes you can get away with adding a bit of fresh solder -- or better,
flux. But cleaning the joint is the preferred method.

Well, I learn something new every day.

I guess I've been doing this wrong for 50 years, but this time I'm
going to resolder a relay from my neighbor, and I don't want her
getting stuck, as she was last Monday, so my standards are higher than
they would be for myself. .

But I guess now that I know better, I'lll do it this way for myself
too.

Thanks, William, and everyone.

BTW, I could find liquid flux nearby, in time for the repair tomorrow,
so I got flux paste. I thought I'd put a little on with a toothpick
or matchstick?? If the hurrican means I don't work on the car
tomorrow, should I go 10 miles farther to buy liquid flux?


You want a good, mild RMA flux, not just liquid rosin. My favorite
was Kester 1544, but I think they dropped that formula now that they
concentrate on reflow solder products.

The proper method depends on what caused the failure. If it was
properly wetted, but cracked around the pin becasue the board is single
sided, a drop of fresh flux and a drop of new solder is fine. If it was
caused by bad plating seperating from the pin, or poor soldering without
proper wetting when it was made you will need to remove the old solder
and clean the pins.


--
You can't have a sense of humor, if you have no sense.