Soldering pots (tinner and cleaner)

[jon_c]

I've finally got round to ordering some new CTS pots for my Epiphone LP standard and will be installing them next week. The question I want to know is solder tinner/cleaner any good or should I just use the usual sponge and tin with the solder method. I picked this up whilst in the store and whether it was better to use it or use the more traditional way.

Maplin > Tip Tinner/Cleaner

[asmith9509]

I've used that stuff... works pretty well. My tip is already pretty well pre-tinned from plenty of use; I just have to keep it clean with a wet sponge. Turn it up good and hot (it's a 40 watt iron) and use rosin-core solder; start by putting a blob of solder on the back of the pot before you try to attach anything. When you go back with your ground wires, the solder that's already on the pot will melt and help heat everything.
I've found that stripping the braid back on braided cable without leaving little strands that could short is 10x harder than the actual soldering. Be patient!

[DrJones8675309]

I would also use some steel wool or light sandpaper to rough up the pots before soldering.... I had to do this with my new pots, made it a lot easier

[JCM223]

Scothbrite.