Desoldering 360 Components

[blueblizzard7]

Hey Guys,

Would anyone recommend a specific type of desoldering iron (brand & model number) or set of tools to desolder Xbox 360 components (through hole pins with RoHs compliant solder)?

I have been using a generic 40W desoldering iron with a built in pump and it hasn't been working well. I originally had a 30W, but it seemed like it wasn't completely melting the solder. The 40W also seems to have the same problem. Maybe there's some special technique that I'm not taking advantage of?

Here's the link to the product description: http://cgi.ebay.com/40W-DESOLDERING-IRO ... 45f2b53a9e

Any help would be appreciated!

-Chris

[nevermind1534]

I like using solder braid for desoldering components from PCBs, but I've never used a desoldering iron.

Have you ever tried braid?

[blueblizzard7]

I do have a solder braid, but I have only seen it being used to desolder SMDs.

Do you have any "insider tips" before I take a go at it?

-Chris

[nevermind1534]

I do have a solder braid, but I have only seen it being used to desolder SMDs.

Do you have any "insider tips" before I take a go at it?

-Chris

I haven't used it on lead-free solder yet, but on my vintage radios that have PCBs, it usually works pretty well if I let the soldering iron heat up (it has to be hot), then just hold it to a glob of solder with the iron on the end. Don't use it after it starts looking nasty; cut the used parts off. It takes some getting used to, but it works.

[bassmasta]

1. Flux to help combat the oxidization
2. Try applying some solder to a pin first and mix it with the lead free solder to lower the melting point.
3. Make sure you clean the iron! I used a paperclip to clear out the iron while it was hot (fortunately it didn't melt) and it worked wonders for me.

[humakabula1]

use an adjustable wattage iron
and apply solder to the points to heat em up