I have a smoke element for a Lionel 675 loco that has a broken hot lead right at the element. This shouldn't be too difficult to solder a new lead on but I can't get the old lead unsoldered. I am sure the smoke pellet residue is the issue but I have cleaned the joint with flux and it still won't melt. Any tried and true suggestions? Thank you.
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It's the wire, not the residue. You'll never get solder to stick to that Nichrome wire...
Try this.
John
@Craftech posted:Try this.
John
I've done quite a few postwar steam engines that way. The only thing I suggest is keeping the wick cover off the element. They harden over time and cause the element to not heat and smoke as well. I did this to my 681 turbine and when I took the cover off it smokes awesome. I've also done a few LTI steam engines that way and added wick material to the bowl.
You may just want to replace the element they are available and will give you piece of mind that it will last a while compared to an older well used one. that can have a break at anytime.
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