"Tim Wescott" wrote in message
...
A friend of mine is putting together a middle-school electronics lab, and
wants to get some good cheap soldering irons. I've been traumatized by
some really pitiful soldering irons so I don't just want to go price
shopping. However, since I've been using professional grade, temperature
controlled irons almost exclusively for years I can't recommend any good
cheap ones.

Can anyone recommend a soldering iron that will actually work but doesn't
cost much? I'm thinking of a rough equivalent to the Weller WP-25, but
that costs less than $20 a pop.

Thanks in advance.


Tim -

The Weller TCP series is routinely available surplus and easy to repair.

I see WTCPL, WTCPN & WTCPS systems selling on eBay for $ 25 or less --
I have seen in last 4 weeks at Chicago area hamfests -- very good WTCPS &
WTCPN stations selling for
$ 20 to $ 25 (some may lack the stand - but that is an easy fix/purchase)

The WTCPT (current production model) will usually get a few more dollars
depending upon condition.

Used bases run around $5, sometimes $ 10 for a cosmetic excellent condition
unit.

Factory and manufacturing closeouts also produce large number of soldering
stations in this price range.

New in this price range - you are left with a variety of 120 VAC stick irons
of various wattages.

Greg

G.Beat wrote:

"Tim Wescott" wrote in message
...


I see WTCPL, WTCPN & WTCPS systems selling on eBay for $ 25 or less --
I have seen in last 4 weeks at Chicago area hamfests -- very good WTCPS &
WTCPN stations selling for
$ 20 to $ 25 (some may lack the stand - but that is an easy fix/purchase)

Greg


Yea, I just jumped on there and lost a bit for one -- it went to her
husband.

At least I didn't push the price up too much.

--

Tim Wescott
Wescott Design Services
http://www.wescottdesign.com

"Tim Wescott" wrote in message
...
G.Beat wrote:

"Tim Wescott" wrote in message
...


I see WTCPL, WTCPN & WTCPS systems selling on eBay for $ 25 or less --
I have seen in last 4 weeks at Chicago area hamfests -- very good WTCPS &
WTCPN stations selling for
$ 20 to $ 25 (some may lack the stand - but that is an easy fix/purchase)

Greg
Yea, I just jumped on there and lost a bit for one -- it went to her
husband.

At least I didn't push the price up too much.


Tim -

How many do you need? I have probably 4 or 5 original NOS Weller WTCP
stations (no neon, no switch) - that I have here.

One middle school talked to me about them - but I think they are getting a
donation from a local mfg. company

Greg
w9gb