Really Cheap Resistance Soldering

I hope you can see the image of the page.  I put this together years ago for a clinic I did on how to make a really cheap resistance soldering rig.  Let me know if you can’t read it.  

Basically, the power source is AC 16V, 1 amp.  I used an old computer power supply.  The tip is a 2mm drafting lead, 3H.  An alligator clip holds the lead perfectly, you’ll need something non conductive and heat resistant to hold the clip.  

I use it a lot for soldering rail.  To do so, I put one clip on the rail I’m soldering, Then touch the drafting lead tip to the rail. Within 3 seconds it’s glowing red hot, and melts the solder easily.  Move the lead tip away and it cools in about the same amount of time.  Watch out though, after soldering a few joints, the alligator clip gets really hot!  

After each soldering, I lightly sand the lead tip to brush away the ash that accumulates and forms an insulating layer that keeps the tip from getting hot.  

You can also clip the clip to a 3rd hand tool to solder small parts.  For railings, I tape the uprights and railing to a sheet of aluminum, and clip the clip to a corner of that.  Now I can solder anywhere on the sheet.  

Let me know if you have any questions.  I’ve had mine for about 20 years now, and I’m still on the first pack of lead! 

Have fun!