On Sun, 23 Oct 2005 15:25:51 -0500, "RB"
wrote:

Got some dirty, corroded stranded #14 copper antenna wire I need to
solder/splice. Limb fell across my antenna during Rita. I need to clean
off the ends before soldering. What common household product(s) can I put
the ends in overnite to get 'em shiny and ready to solder?


You didn't say how many strands.

If it is 7 strand, you may be able to unlay the strands and scrape the
oxide off with a knife, or polish it off with some stainless steel
wool or the like (dont soak it in steel wool overnight!).

"Common household products" excludes weak muriatic acid solution, and
acid flux, doesn't it, so I won't discuss them. If you do find a
common household acid that works, remember the risk of residual
contamination of the strands, and also, wicking up into the insulated
part if it is insulated.

One of the advantages of single strand bare antenna conductors is that
they are easier to clean, and you can even use acid cleaners without
risk of residual contamination of the strands and wicking up into the
insulated part.

Outright replacement might be the best option.

Owen
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