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Soldering Station recommendations

somebodyelseuk

Well-known member
Joined
Jun 10, 2020
Messages
454
Morning chaps n chapesses.
I've been getting by for decades using cheapish soldering irons. I'm looking to get a soldering station. Looking to spend no more than £200.
The Hakko FX888D is the favourite to get the job.

Anyone got any experience with this product?
Cheers.
 

Don

Well-known member
Joined
Dec 1, 2001
Messages
5,732
I've been using a Weller WES51 for years and really like it, but have heard good things about the Hakko.
 

Cream Fan

Active member
Joined
May 1, 2003
Messages
2,695
I will second the vote for Hakko. I have had the FX-888D station for years and it performs flawlessly.
 

somebodyelseuk

Well-known member
Joined
Jun 10, 2020
Messages
454
Thanks for the replies.
My concern, I suppose, was whether the Hakko had enough juice to do grounding on pots.
 

Don

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Joined
Dec 1, 2001
Messages
5,732
Thanks for the replies.
My concern, I suppose, was whether the Hakko had enough juice to do grounding on pots.

It looks like it's a little more powerful than my WES51 and the WES51 is more than adequate on pots when I use a 1/8" (3mm) wide tip, so it should be fine.
 

somebodyelseuk

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Joined
Jun 10, 2020
Messages
454
Thanks everyone for the your advice.
I ordered one this morning, along with a couple of 3.2mm bits to be going on with.
 

Blue97FXSTC

Member
Joined
Jan 11, 2005
Messages
657
This one is beyond your budget, but I'll offer it up since it's a sure enough Cadillac.

Metcal MX500

I have two Metcal MX500S-11 units on my bench that have been used daily for more than 15 years.
Turn it on, wait 5 seconds and you have an 800 degree tip that will attach a ground wire to a pot with ease.
The MX550S-11 was replaced by the MX500S several years ago.
The new units are $500, but you can likely find a the previous model used within your price range.

Replacement tips are about $20 each and come in a huge variety of sizes and temperatures (600, 700, 800 degree).
 
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