Elecraft T1 Assembly Manual - Manual (Page 4)

4
Elecraft kits use high-quality double-sided PC boards. Removing components can be difficult, since you
must get all of the solder back out of the hole before a lead can be removed. To do this, you'll need solder
wick (desoldering braid) and/or a vacuum desoldering tool. It also takes some practice. A number of
suggestions are provided below.
The best strategy for avoiding de-soldering is to place all components properly the first time. Double-check
values and orientations, and avoid damaging parts via ESD.
When removing components:
 Don't pull a lead or pin out of a hole unless the solder has been removed or you are applying heat.
Otherwise you can literally pull the plating out of the plated-through hole.
 Limit soldering iron contact to a few seconds at a time.
 Use small-size solder-wick, about 0.1" or 2.5 mm wide. Use the wick on both the top and bottom pads
when possible. This helps get all of the solder out of the hole.
 If you use a vacuum desoldering tool (solder sucker), use a large unit. Small solder suckers are not
very effective.
 The safest way to remove ICs and other components with more than 3 leads is to clip all of the pins at
the body of the device first, then remove all of the pins individually. You may damage pads and traces
by trying to remove such components intact.
 Invest in a PC board vice with a heavy base if possible. This makes parts removal easier because it
frees up both hands.
If in doubt about a particular repair, ask for advice from Elecraft or from someone else with PCB repair
experience.