Those pesky MXR and double-sided boards

[diggum12]

I've found a couple tricks that seem to help with those double sided boards that have solder pads on both sides and don't want to "give up" the solder stuck inside them, especially MXRs.

***Note:  I use desoldering braid, not a sucker.***

1)  Before desoldering, try adding some fresh solder into the joint.  Apply liberally.  Heat up the new solder with the old (within reason of course.  Don't burn the crap out of your components or the pad.)  Then let it cool.  Heat it up again and try desoldering.  That usually does the trick for me. 

2)  Still not getting all the solder out?  Get a third hand and a toothpick or fine soldering tool/pick.  Now heat up your pad again and gently stick the toothpick or tool through the hole to clean it out.  Just be careful that you don't damage the pad.  (A soldering tool looks pretty much like an awl or dental pick with a long fine point.  A third hand can be: a person, clamp, or a soldering station.) 

If anyone else knows any good tricks for this, post it!   

[Greybeard999]

Adding fresh solder before removing parts is the way to go...... old solder tends to not melt without it and then you end up overheating the board which means you lose traces.


Use a sewing needle to clear those holes....... solder doesn't like to stick to sewing needles. I made a wooden handle that I insert a needle into so it's easier to manage..... sticking the eye end of a hot needle into your finger is not conducive to guitar playing.... 

[diggum12]

I made a wooden handle that I insert a needle into so it's easier to manage.....

Great Idea!  Or use a wine cork.   

[bwdavis99]

I find putting flux on the desolder braid helps pick it up better too

Barry

[R O Tiree]

I always add a little flux before trying to de-solder. Adding a little more fresh solder will add more flux, making the solder flow nicely and keeping the temperature down, but now you have twice as much solder to get rid of.