Best portable sodering iron / pencil

[powerscol]

Greetings everyone.

Went to do a bit of soldering and found out my old Weller pencil had bit the dust. Cracked power cord etc. It was only a bit over 50 years old. Can anyone recommend another good one for the occasional odd jobs. I would like it to be portable for use outside like fixing trailer wiring or use to do outside wiring like I will need for my third function install. I usually use the uncovered crimp clamps, solder, then cover with heat shrink tubing. Had too many crimp connections go bad without soldering.

Thoughts and recommendations?

Thanks - Keith

 

[/pine]

Greetings everyone.

Went to do a bit of soldering and found out my old Weller pencil had bit the dust. Cracked power cord etc. It was only a bit over 50 years old. Can anyone recommend another good one for the occasional odd jobs. I would like it to be portable for use outside like fixing trailer wiring or use to do outside wiring like I will need for my third function install. I usually use the uncovered crimp clamps, solder, then cover with heat shrink tubing. Had too many crimp connections go bad without soldering.

Thoughts and recommendations?

Thanks - Keith

I recently replaced the one I'd used for decades with a new Weller that was on the shelf at the local hardware...was reasonably priced and like a lot of newer tools it has built in LED subject lights...helps to see...

 

[shaeff]

I've used a butane soldering iron for the past 10+ years. Got it from Radio Shack. It works very well. I don't often solder on trailers or cars unless it's a circuit board or broken solder joint.

I buy heat shrink filled crimp connectors from Parts Express. Been using them for probably 6-7 years and haven't had a single failure. (Make sure you use a ratcheting crimper meant for insulated terminals).

Use them on boat trailers, car trailers, auxiliary truck lighting, etc. I love them. Especially since I'm the guy who puts a nice crimp on something to reconnect a broken factory joint, but almost always forget the shrink tubing! Having it integrated to the crimp connection is perfect.

 

[powerscol]

I stumbled upon this kit. Thinking of getting 2. One for my son in college. I don't think he has one
Sywon Full Set 6W 11V Electric Soldering Iron Kit with Adjustable Temperature Welding Iron, 5pcs Tips, Desoldering Pump, 2pcs Tweezers, Tin Wire Tube, Stand and 6pcs Aid Tools in PU Carry Bag - - Amazon.com

Know nothing about the brand - Thoughts?

 

[ProjectKing]

Weller WES51. Excellent tool

 

[JRobyn]

I find very little that can't be soldered with the trusty old dual heat Weller gun. I actually have two.

 

[prichard]

I've used a butane soldering iron for the past 10+ years. Got it from Radio Shack. It works very well. I don't often solder on trailers or cars unless it's a circuit board or broken solder joint.

I buy heat shrink filled crimp connectors from Parts Express. Been using them for probably 6-7 years and haven't had a single failure. (Make sure you use a ratcheting crimper meant for insulated terminals).

Use them on boat trailers, car trailers, auxiliary truck lighting, etc. I love them. Especially since I'm the guy who puts a nice crimp on something to reconnect a broken factory joint, but almost always forget the shrink tubing! Having it integrated to the crimp connection is perfect.

Butane all the way for me. I can take it anywhere. I may have the same one. Got mine at radio shack 10 yeasts ago as well.

 

[Redlands Okie]

M12™ Soldering Iron Bare Tool | Milwaukee Tool


M18™ Compact Heat Gun Kit | Milwaukee Tool

 

[RjCorazza]

I also have used a dual wattage Weller iron for years... My "go to" wiring tool.

 

[powerscol]

I also have used a dual wattage Weller iron for years... My "go to" wiring tool.

are you referring to something like this Amazon.com: Weller WEL82PK 12-Volt 14/1 Watts Universal Soldering Gun Kit: Home Improvement