Fast Tracks

Ahyone here have any input as to the above question? I tried the acid core and also the rosin core, other than the resin cleanup after I dont see a big difference.

Rob

The fact is either will work, however many people will find it much easier to use acid core solder when soldering nickel silver rail to copper ties as the acid will help to clean and etch the surfaces making it easier to get the solder to flow, especially when using small diameter solder which is easier to get into tight spots.

Rosin core solder will work equally well, but it takes more skill, heat and patience to create a sound, good looking joint.

Generally speaking acid core is not recommended for soldering small parts, electrical wiring or electronic components as left over acid will corrode and eventually weaken the joints, reducing their electrical and mechanical integrity.

However in the case of trackwork, it is easy to solve this problem by simply washing the completed trackwork in warm soapy water. (Something that is hard to do with electrical wiring and circuits.) As long as the leftover acid and flux is removed, then there is no danger of corrosion, and most people will find soldering much easier.

If you are an experienced modeller, skilled with the soldering iron, then using rosin core solder will eliminate the need to clean the trackwork when you are done. But beyond that, there is no real difference.

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Cheers!

Ron Warris
Fast Tracks

Thanks Ron,
I find either to be easy to solder, I clean my ties with a small wire brush in a moto tool, (works fast and wow are they cleqn!) So I never really had a problem. that and the American beauty resistance soldering gear.

Rob

Ron, what do you think about using Silver Solder? Is it practical and isn't it stronger.

gene maddox

There is no reason you can't use silver solder, although it isn't necessary. For ease of use I suggest sticking to a small dia. acid core solder.

_________________
Cheers!

Tim Warris
Fast Tracks
http://www.fast-tracks.net
service@fast-tracks.net

I am using silver solder and I find the strength about five times stronger than lead/tin. Right now I use it on stress points.

I use them on the points, and the ties around the throwbar, and on end ties of turnouts. This is strickly for the extra strength that might be needed because of switch machines, Or heavy handed modelers trying to put rail joiners on.

Rob

Rob,

Where do you purchase you silver solder and what percentage of silver is it??? I have looked for silver solder, rosin core, .015" but have been unable to find anything. Thanks for your help.

Mark Hagy

I purchased mine locally in Alaska, its for electronics, its not quite as thin as the 15 but it works well. Its 2% silver, I believe if you go on the net and punch up soldering supplies, you'll get quite a few and even one outfit that will make solder to your specs. Try the aerospace/military suppliers. I did this the other day fiquring that my local supplier might not carry it some day. Theres quite alot of online establishments. I use the 2 percent silver solder and its way stronger than the lead tin.

Careful on what you buy that you know what the temp the solder flows at. I noticed that some silver solders had a melting point of 1200 to 1400 degrees. Now maybe you have an iron that can handle it. I dont believe the pc ties can handle that kind of heat.

Rob