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I really like my Weller WES51 Analog Soldering Station. I recommend using it with a brass wool cleaner instead of a sponge. It heats up quickly, and with the brass wool, it stays there. Nice variety of inexpensive tips.

I've also heard good things about the similar Hakko FX888D-23BY Digital Soldering Station. That one is a little less expensive and has the brass wool built into the iron holster, but the tips are about twice as expensive as Weller's.

The spec sheet for the solder you use should list the temperature requirements for the solder. For example, I use this SN100C solder http://www.aimsolder.com/sites/default/files/glowcore_cored_wire_rev_8_2.pdf. The temp requirements for it are 370°C to 425°C. I run my station at 410°C when using this solder.

Thank you! This is very helpful information – for solder that has a data sheet. The Kester solder that I just ordered recommends 600–700°F for its leaded solders, for example. Unfortunately, I can't find a data sheet for the MG Chemicals solder I've been using, but it sounds like 700°F should be a reasonable setting.

I see lots of folks saying things like "don't use a soldering iron over 25W for this project" or otherwise specifying heat according to wattage. I presume these people are talking about uncontrolled irons, yes?

I use a Weller WES51 station with controlled variable temperature. What temperature setting should I use with 63/37 solder? I used 600°F for my first couple of projects, but I have heard recommendations ranging from 600–750°F and I'm really not sure what is best for small electronics like guitar pedals.

Also, are there any situations where I actually need to be careful about wattage rather than temperature? If so, what does that mean for the WES51? It's rated 50W, but I'm not sure what that means in practice.

Thanks! We are going to try some experiments to figure out what kind of finishes work well for us. Worst case, I can just order them powder coated, but I would like to figure out a DIY approach that works for me. That way I have more flexibility to do stuff like the purple-and-silver mixed finish.

I wrecked some aluminum while I was learning to drill, which should make a good test surface for learning to paint.

Just finished my first pedal build, a passive mute switch in a 1590LB enclosure. My painting, soldering, and lead dress skills are terrible, but the “effect” works great. There is no hum or other noise and only the faintest popping when switching at very high gain levels. I built this so that I could mute my chain independently of my tuner.



The biggest disappointment with this project was the purple finish. I used Rustoleum self-etch primer and spray paint. The purple coat turned out soft and easy to mar. My wife and I tried a couple of experiments on the bottom panel and only ended up making it worse, so I stripped the paint and just put a brushed-metal finish on the lid, which I actually really like.