Reader Ingenuity: Clean Contacts to Improve Connection
After Robert came to us with some great improvement ideas for our rechargeable soldering irons, we just had to share. We’re especially thrilled with his maintainance of the contact points, and you can bet we are looking into his other ideas as well. Here’s his letter:
I have used Wahl (Editor’s note: Wahl = Iso-Tip) Cordless Soldering irons for many years. But the one issue I notice is the push button to press the contacts together to make a connection to the batteries. It seems that there is no positive contact for that connection. In taking the unit apart, there is a plastic button that pushes the contacts together. In making a connection to supply a large amount of current to heat up the tip, I think a knife blade type of connection would work better. I know space is limited, but it could be done. I am a long-time Solidworks user and thought I might be able to model the connection redesign. Even if the iron was a little higher in height as it lays on a flat surface there would be more room for the improved switch contact. I am presently using a Model 7700 which I have altered slightly. I’ve had it for two years and the batteries are still taking a charge. You do have a good product if only there was a better way of making a connection. I noticed that the contact points get corroded/pitted. I cleaned these with a small flat file. The issue you are dealing with is supplying probably more than two amps to heat up the tip and how to make the best connection in a positive way, but the push button is not the best way. Let me know your thoughts on this. Thank you. – Robert
We agree with Robert on his assessment of the current contact arrangement. But before making any significant redesigns we want to give ourselves a few years of really managing the product line and getting to know how we can best improve it. In the mean time, we’d love to learn of any and all improvements you’d make to the line.
Now, without further ado, it’s time to find the contact points. Open up your rechargeable soldering iron by unscrewing the casing so that you’re looking at something like this:
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Locate the contact points and then file away any corrosion to keep the connection clean and your iron working like new.
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It’s always the little things that make a difference, isn’t it? Thanks so much for sharing your insight Robert! What do you guys think? Have improvement ideas for the Iso-Tip line? What do you do to maintain your soldering iron?
Reader Ingenuity: Battery Repair for Obsolete Irons
Good news! (Especially for those of you with older Iso-Tip soldering irons.) We’ve learned that Batteries Plus can rebuild old Iso-Tip batteries. So, if you happen to own a model we no longer manufacture, Batteries Plus may be able to help extend the tool’s life by rebuilding the battery. One of our fellow Wisconsinites passed on that little tid-bit of information after he had his 7500 series rebuilt in November. (Thank you, Steve!) And with more than 380 locations in 43 states, you sure to find a Batteries Plus near you. For location information, visit their website.
Do you have an older Iso-Tip soldering iron? After all these years, how do you keep it maintained and in working order? Inquiring minds want to know.
Thoughts from Mike Rowe that more people need to hear…
You think you know, but you don’t. Watching this talk by Mike Rowe, the host of the Discover Channel’s Dirty Jobs, will make you think twice about what you think you know. Ah…to be humbled by experience. Classic.
Contact Iso-Tip
Need to get in touch with us? We are here to help! We’ve added these handy hints to direct you to many of the answers you seek. Also be sure to read through our FAQs Page.
Where can I find replacement parts for Iso-Tip products?
Check out our Products Page for more info.
What products are in the Iso-Tip line?
Check out our Products Page for the full line-up.
How do I return something?
Check out our RMA Page to discover how it’s done.
Need More Help?
We are in the office Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. CST. Contact us how you see fit:
Email: info@Iso-Tip.com
Phone: (715) 831-6353
Fax: (419) 818-0897
Mail: Iso-Tip, 704 Bartlett Avenue, Altoona, WI 54720
Reader Ingenuity: Lamp Holder Repair / Upgrade
We got a call today about the lamp holder for the cordless rechargeable soldering irons (Quick Charge #7700/#7740, “60″ Pro Charge #7800/#7840 and Power Pro #7904/#7944).
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The customer, John, was looking for a replacement lamp socket.
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