Re: Solvent -- Better way

[KH7T]

The discussion on solvents is entertaining.

But the first, second, and third rule on Elecraft Kits is FOLLOW THE
BOOK and get wonderful results.  The forth rule is do not use solvents
or you void the warranty and have to live with the result.

A better way is to wait a few days until any excess unsightly flux is
setup and easily flakes off if you lightly use a small screwdriver or a
dental pick.  It usually pops off clean.  If it does not pop off clean
wait a while longer.  It is not really good in the long term to leave
large amounts of excess flux bridging connections.  In several years it
can create a leakage path with absorbed water and contaminants.

It is a really good idea to refrain from using solvents that may affect
some of the plastic parts or run a thin coating of dissolved flux or
other contaminants into unlikely places on the board or even inside some
of the parts.

Perhaps my credibility is shot since I used to occasionally wash my
hands with TCE.

Aloha,
John KH7T

_______________________________________________
Elecraft mailing list
Post to: [hidden email]
You must be a subscriber to post to the list.
Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.):
 http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft   

Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm
Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com

[k6dgw]

John Buck wrote:
> Perhaps my credibility is shot since I used to occasionally
 > wash my hands with TCE.

As a teenage ham in the mid-50's, we all cleaned stuff with carbon
tetrachloride and just let it evaporate.  Then I "discovered" MEK, which
would dissolve the anti-fungal coating on old WW2 surplus parts if you
kept putting enough on. I did it in my bedroom where my radios were.
Later in the USAF, we had a big bucket of TCE in which the Model 15's
and 28's were dunked.  It was inside too.

OSHA:  If you're subscribed to this reflector, please don't have a cow.
I sure wouldn't do any of that today.  Apparently, I lucked out ... I'm
still alive at the end of 2006 and the only behavior from my early adult
years that affects me today (other than the fact that my wife is certain
I'm crazy) involves combat.

ALL:  I would strongly (very strongly) recommend that the answer to the
"which solvent" question for Elecraft equipment is "NONE."  Use *very*
fine solder (mine is 0.015 63/37) which lets you precisely control the
amount of solder, and thus flux, and will eliminate the need for
cleaning anything.  I also have a very small desk fan which I use to
blow the fumes sideways and away from me while soldering, and I always
wash my hands after building.

73 and my best of whatever season greeting works for you,

Fred K6DGW
Auburn CA CM98lw
_______________________________________________
Elecraft mailing list
Post to: [hidden email]
You must be a subscriber to post to the list.
Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.):
 http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft   

Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm
Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com