Solder replacement

[davidf]

Good Morning.

Haven taken up this scale again recently I'm having some issues gluing PE to white metal parts. I have tried zap a gap and jb weld but not happy with the results. I know soldering is the best option but I don't really want to shell out for a variable temp soldering iron for the limited time i would be using it.

Are there any alternatives worth trying?

Thanks in advance,

David.

[d111298pw]

I've always used 5 minute epoxy for attaching anything to white metal. Never had a problem.

[43k]

I use solder a lot in 1/43 scale and once you master the technique there is no going back! it is by far the better way for joining any metal parts together. I’m still using my 12v (yes, 12v!) Antex soldering iron I got for £13 on everything. Even between white metal to white metal on car bodies. The real limitations are that you get the correct solder/ flux/ technique and I believe the choice of soldering iron is irrelevant.

[43k]

Sorry that should’ve been 12watts (12w)!

[Tyrone]

I use solder a lot in 1/43 scale and once you master the technique there is no going back! it is by far the better way for joining any metal parts together. I’m still using my 12v (yes, 12v!) Antex soldering iron I got for £13 on everything. Even between white metal to white metal on car bodies. The real limitations are that you get the correct solder/ flux/ technique and I believe the choice of soldering iron is irrelevant.

What solder and flux do you recommend? I've used the low melt solder that comes in blocks, but the white metal Never seems to stick to it, I think my flux is the issue?

[Malcolm]

I tried a number of different makes of flux (in the mistaken belief that having the low melting point solder was the most important issue).

Finally, after a load of failures, I came across Gaugemaster Flux 2 White metal. I have to say that this makes all the difference. I'm sure there are other makes. I am in the UK, and I don't know if this is available elsewhere, but it certainly was the answer for me.

I hope that helps.

Best wishes
Malcolm

[Formulamike]

Hi David,

please look in this 43rd forum, at moment Page 11, the Topic Solder of a rearwing,
with simple parts, with a digital solder station.
Maybe can help this old Topic.

Mike

[cbk57]

What is an alternative to guagemaster in the U.S. or who sells gauge master product in the U.S.?

[43k]

I use Carr’s 145 Detailing Solder which I got from C+L Finescale in the UK. This solder contains lead which I find flows much better than any non-lead version. For the flux, I use a homemade 50% phosphate acid which works very well and without leaving any residual. I know that probably doesn’t answer your question but hopefully you can find your answer on C+L Finescale website.