Will my iron work?

[jordanishere]

I plan to install a Wii mod chip soon, and I need to know if my soldering iron will work or not. It is a 60 watt Xytronic iron that I used when I was into RC car racing a few years ago (very similar to this but a bit older: http://www.xytronic-usa.com/136esd_index.htm). I know 60 watt is pretty high, but it has adjustable temperature from 400 to 600 degrees. Do you guys think this will work, or is it gonna torch my wii? What iron would you recommend I purchase if it won't work?

Thanks a lot, I have never really soldered on a board or anything so this is all kind of new to me.

[AceMilo]

First of all, don't use that iron, its way too strong for pcbs. Second, I highly suggest that you do not solder your own wii since you have no pcb soldering experience. It's very delicate and detailed work, and should only be done by those with experience. If you must do it yourself, get a 5 dolalr 15 watt iron from radio shack.

[sqweeks]

Well that iron will work. I have a Aoyue 937+ Soldering Station with a T-LB Tip that I use. Set your temp to around 325-350 degrees C for doing mods. If its temperature controlled then it does not really matter how many watts it is. As with any iron you use just leave it on for no more then 2 seconds.

[AceMilo]

He can only set it as low as 400. This is way too hot for him since he has no pcb experience.

[sqweeks]

He can only set it as low as 400. This is way too hot for him since he has no pcb experience.
The melting point of 60/40 solder is 370°F. The iron he has will be fine.

[bearbate]

I'm with Acemilo on this one...I worked in circuit board design, and manufactoring (by hand) for 7 years. I would not take soldering a mod chip lightly, there is a very high risk of ruining your console if you don't have experience with PCB's. I would also recommend a 20 watt or less iron with a sharp (preferably new) tip on it. Also use very thin solder like .015 diameter. This sloder melts at a lower temperature, and has very little rosin.

-Bearbate

[jordanishere]

Thanks for the input guys. I will look into hiring someone to install the mod for me, I'm sure its cheaper than a new wii.