Soldering Iron Recommendations

[mike_lawyer]

Hi everyone, my trusty Weller WLC100 soldering iron died after about 12 years of use.  I see that model has been discontinued.  I want to purchase an analog soldering station as a replacement.  Does anyone have a recommendation?  Looking to spend around $100-$150.  Thanks!

[Point353]

Hi everyone, my trusty Weller WLC100 soldering iron died after about 12 years of use.  I see that model has been discontinued.  I want to purchase an analog soldering station as a replacement.  Does anyone have a recommendation?  Looking to spend around $100-$150.  Thanks!

See if the Weller/Apex WLSK3012A would meet your needs: 
https://www.weller-tools.com/us/en/consumer/products/soldering-stations/soldering-station-30w120v-us

Ace Hardware has it for $75 and it seems to be in stock at many local stores.

[peteski]

This topic has been covered few times here. Search shows:
https://www.therailwire.net/forum/index.php?topic=59139.0
https://www.therailwire.net/forum/index.php?topic=40329.0
https://www.therailwire.net/forum/index.php?topic=42553.0

[mike_lawyer]

See if the Weller/Apex WLSK3012A would meet your needs: 
https://www.weller-tools.com/us/en/consumer/products/soldering-stations/soldering-station-30w120v-us

Ace Hardware has it for $75 and it seems to be in stock at many local stores.

I know this model is Weller's replacement for the WLC100, but I have read reviews indicating that the quality is not as good as the old Weller models.  So I am looking for alternatives.

[Point353]

This topic has been covered few times here. Search shows:
https://www.therailwire.net/forum/index.php?topic=59139.0
https://www.therailwire.net/forum/index.php?topic=40329.0
https://www.therailwire.net/forum/index.php?topic=42553.0

Based upon the information in those links, which analog soldering station would you recommend?

[Point353]

I know this model is Weller's replacement for the WLC100, but I have read reviews indicating that the quality is not as good as the old Weller models.  So I am looking for alternatives.

If you can accept a digital unit, then look at the Hakko FX-888DX: https://hakkousa.com/products/soldering/soldering-stations/fx-888dx.html

[peteski]

Based upon the information in those links, which analog soldering station would you recommend?

If you read my responses in those threads you will see that I favor the Pace (digital) units, but they come with a higher price.  Those threads I linked to also have other members recommendations of both digital and analog units in the requested prince range - that is why I posted those links.  Mike can then make up his own mind.

[Point353]

If you read my responses in those threads you will see that I favor the Pace (digital) units, but they come with a higher price.  Those threads I linked to also have other members recommendations of both digital and analog units in the requested prince range - that is why I posted those links.  Mike can then make up his own mind.

Which analog soldering station, if any, mentioned in those links is still available as a new product within the OP's stated price range?

[ednadolski]

This topic has been covered few times ...

If one doesn't already exist, then maybe TRW could/should have a forum of 'Recommendation' threads that list links such as these?

Just a thought....

Ed

[SD452XR]

I've used my Loner 951SX for over 15 years. Workes great. I like to be able to adjust the temp when needed. Easy to change out tips. I have had to replace the sponge a couple times over the years. Used it to build over 160 fast track switches, many decoder installs, etc. Still works like a charm.

https://edsyn.descoindustries.com/EDSYN-Catalog/Soldering/Soldering-Stations-Irons/951SX/

[Point353]

https://www.tomshardware.com/best-picks/best-soldering-irons#section-best-soldering-station

[MK]

I own the FX-888D and have used the Pinecil many times.  Both are a joy to use.

[robert3985]

I got my Hakko FX-888DX soldering station about 9 months ago and I've been really happy with it.  First time I've had a precision temperature controlled soldering station and I bought it specifically to help with my decoder installs, along with a few extra tips.

For my metal models, hand-laying turnouts & track, rail joints and applying rail feeders, I'm using my 250W American Beauty resistance soldering station almost exclusively, only using an iron to tin things with.

Cheerio!
Bob Gilmore