I have been involved in most every facet of electronics for a VERY long time. I have repaired, serviced (and even designed) a large variety of electronics equipment from consumer products to military gear. Throughout my career, a constant companion on my bench has been a Soldapullt Solder Sucker. Desoldering components, especially from printed circuit boards, is a large and necessary part of the repair of this equipment. This particular solder sucker makes that chore simple, easy, and “almost” fun.

I have certainly had the opportunity to use more “advanced” (read expensive) tools, such as vacuum desoldering stations. And while I am not about to tell you the Soldapullt solder sucker is the equal of one of those pricey toys, I will unequivocally state that it is the next best thing, and without the expense, hassle (and if you do field service work, the bulk) of the vacuum station.

With a little practice, some knowledge, and the proper maintenance of the solder sucker (more on that later), you can do a desoldering job every bit the caliber, and nearly as fast, as the aforementioned vacuum station.

Now, while I am far from alone in this view, there are a few who have not put forth the effort to learn how to use the solder sucker, and have declared it unworthy of their use. These same people will often then pick up their desoldering braid, remove the suspect component, and then proceed to show their superb talent at repairing the damaged board, before completing the replacement. I have seen very many PCB’s destroyed by the improper choice of desoldering tools, and the mis-informed application of them.

The Soldapullt Desoldering pump is an extremely effective and competent tool. But, desoldering is a skill. It does require some practice, and your desoldering pump does require the proper maintenance. Regular cleaning, and the proper application of grease to the piston is of high importance.

I also want to stress that you should not confuse this desoldering pump with many others on the market. First, size DOES matter. Those cute, dainty, miniature pumps cannot generate the vacuum necessary. They are, IMHO, entirely worthless. The full size Soldapullt’s are large enough to generate significant vacuum. The design is also important. While some others use a simple one piece solid piston, the Soldapullt uses a piston with an integral floating “O” ring to maintain the proper seal to the barrel. While some use tips that are improperly matched to the airflow through the unit (too big), the Soldapullt has a carefully designed and matched tip. And, while many others are carefully designed to make you use two hands to “cock” the unit, the Soldapullt has a wonderfully large and soft plunger that is easy to push with one palm, or other suitable surface.

My favorite model is the DS-017, or the ESD safe, but otherwise identical AS196 “Silverstat”. The DS-017 is a bit hard to find. I have not tried the newest Soldapullt III model, but I believe it is safe to assume it is just as competent as it’s older brethren.

Below this article, I have links to a couple of videos. The 1st one will show you the basic steps to maintaining your solder sucker. This (especially the grease) is extremely important to proper performance. The other will show the DS-017 in use removing and replacing an IC. These videos are from my own website http://solderingsite.com

And, of course, if you click on the “Store” link, I have sorted out the pertinent Edsyn products. I do not think you will find them cheaper, or easier to acquire, than here.

As a soldering and desoldering instructor and professional, I hope to promulgate the correct way to perform these procedures, and, maybe even, save some PCB’s from the scrap heap in the process.

Sincerely,
Michael Corder