cable end preparation

[Jim Allen]

I use a heat sink to silver solder the end of the cable for a distance of approximately 1/8". This prevents any unwinding or separation. I then solder the cable end with silver bearing, acid core, lead free, solder for a distance of approximately 1 1/4". I use Tec Flux high temperature soldering liquid made by Lucas Milhaupt after cleaning the cables end in a 50% solution of MEK & acetone. If done properly the cable end will become a solid, without softening the spring steel wire it is made from. The solder flows at 400* F & the 45% silver solder at 1100* F. The foam, plywood shield prevents the flux from attacking the steel parts of the lathe's chuck as it slowly rotates the cable.

Jim Allen

 

[Steve "Wazzy" Wasylyk]

You mention two melting points for two different solders. Which one do you recommend?

Sent from my SM-G386W using Tapatalk

 

[Jim Allen]

I use both. The silver solder, 45% silver, 1100* F, is used for the cables end, approximzately 1/8" in length. The soft solder, 400* F, is used for the 1 1/4" area & it covers the silver soldered end.

JA

 

[Hydro Junkie]

MEK is some pretty nasty stuff. Isn't acetone strong enough alone? I know Boeing won't allow the use of MEK anywhere unless engineering and mid-level management both give the okay.

 

[Jim Allen]

MEK is readily available in Lowes, Home Depot, Ace & many other hardware stores. It is a strong solvent but it is no more dangerous than Acetone which is also sold in hardware stores. I soak the cable's end in the solvent mix for several days to remove any grease or oil that may be inside the cable's windings.

JA

 

[Ain'tSkered racing]

Mek is some nasty stuff you should not let it get on your hands it's a lot worse then just actone. Make sure you wear gloves. I work for safety kleen we pick this stuff up all the time nasty nasty

Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk

 

[Hydro Junkie]

MEK is readily available in Lowes, Home Depot, Ace & many other hardware stores. It is a strong solvent but it is no more dangerous than Acetone which is also sold in hardware stores. I soak the cable's end in the solvent mix for several days to remove any grease or oil that may be inside the cable's windings.

JA

I understand that, just saying that if Boeing has pretty much banned it in their facilities, some serious caution is needed. I used to use it all the time when I was in the Navy, actually washed my hands in the stuff. Now, without the proper gloves, I won't get need it

 

[PaulHail]

Not saying that MEK isn't nasty stuff, but for many chemicals there is a big difference between the health effects of occasional exposure for once a twice a year hobby use, and 8 hours a day industrial exposure.

That said, it's a good idea to check a safety data sheet and use proper PPE when dealing with any chemical.

 

[Patrick Mulvany]

When I build a cable I use an Ultra-Sonic Cleaner with water and Dawn dish soap.. Removes all the grease/oils and is easy to make soldering less of a task.. I use 45% silver solder on both ends but have made a jig to hold stub shaft and cable stable during soldering procedure..

Later!!

Pat