soldering LED's question

[dmc67]

Hey just wondering what wattage soldering gun I should get to do the led's in my dash light's?

thanks

 

[xveganxcowboyx]

It shouldn't matter much. I would keep it low so you don't melt anything unintentional.

 

[Jaronk56]

i would sugest like 30 watt range.. you don't need anything higher

 

[mtwollet]

You'll get better results using thin flexible solder vs dense thicker solder. as far as getting it to melt

 

[dmc67]

hey how is sauder numbered like, I am ordering everything off ebay so I need a number or something to get the idea of what to hunt for.

thanks

 

[joshohatesuall]

you can probably get solder from radioshack for just as cheap? its only a couple bucks regardless and you dont have to wait to get it shipped.

 

[Piranha451]

As far as the solder goes, get a 60/40 rosin core, and watch for the diameter size. Different solder diameters are produced: 20-22 SWG (19-21 AWG) is 0.91-0.71mm diameter and is fine for most work. Choose 18 SWG (16 AWG) for larger joints requiring more solder. LEDs can burn out from too much heat so don't hold the iron on it for any longer than you need to.

 

[xveganxcowboyx]

Ace hardware also carries a variety of solder. Most hardware stores should. Be sure to check the packaging though. Some is for electronics and some metal work. Not sure of the difference, maybe just diameter.

You can get some thin stuff (around .60mm) but you'll get less for the money. Seriously, I'd just go into a store and buy it. It weighs a ton so it'll be cheaper without shipping. Probably less than $4.

 

[RedRex02]

For the noob soldering guys, look for Cold heat, I think the name is...
https://www.asseenontvnetwork.com/vcc/coldheat/coldheat/115788/
Works real nice!
Jon

 

[morbid_eclipse]

ick do not use cold heat...read the reviews about it...search on google for reviews..and if you do get cold heat...do not use it near electrical parts that are hooked up...it generates heat by using electricity..so if you have it near anything electrical or a system or something it has a chance of frying it...so i wouldnt suggest cold heat...i would go and buy the cordless butane soldering iron that radioshack has...its $20 and small and portable and works really good...heats up in no time and since its small and will fit in tight places...i soldered wires inside my dash without having to tear the dash apart just to get to the wires...just my 2 cents though..

 

[dmc67]

yea I've tried the cold heat stuff and it dont work out very well, I am gunna get the butane cordless and some solder from radioshack as soon as my 50 LED's come in.


thanks for the replies guys