I repair Motorola 2-way radios and am having difficulty desoldering some of the components. For example, when desoldering a 6-pin channel select switch, the outer pair of legs are removed easily. However, the solder does not flow on the center pair of legs. I have tried increasing the temperature and flux.
Any suggestions?
Thanks!
The switch pins may be using 'through hole' connections.
Have you tried a desoldering iron with vacuum pump?
Since the old switch is bad cut the legs off and remove one leg at a time. If you cant get to the legs break the switch with pliers or vice grips. Doug
A technique I've used with SM ICs is to poke a fine wire under all the pins on one side, and solder the end down to a nearby pad or via. Then apply heat to the pins while pulling sideways on the other end of the wire, which lifts the pins one by one.
It would work better if the wire didn't take solder, such as a fine Nichrome or stainless steel wire. Of course, you have to loop it round something to anchor the end. Dig out your old wire recorder!
Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.
Ask the community — no account required