Does RadioShack provide good Soldering Irons for modding PS1/PS2 consoles?

[Mr.Nguyen]

I am ordering a modchip and I need a Soldering Iron as well. My question, does RadioShack provide good Soldering Irons for the modding job? They are selling a "5-Piece Basic Soldering Set" which stated that:

Includes everything you need for basic soldering jobs in one package. Comes with a 30-watt soldering iron, iron safety stand, rosin core solder, soldering helper, heat sink, plus easy-to-follow beginner's soldering instructions.

Catalog #: 64-2802


Is that a good soldering iron to purchase or you recommend something else? Thank you in advance.


-Mr.Nguyen

[bighap]

30 watts is too much. You want one of their 15 watt models.

[prisoner1138]

30 watts isnt too much. it's too much if you dunno what the hell you're doing, or you do it often.(i've done it with a 45 watt iron). since you're even asking about radio shack brand irons, i'll just categorize you as "dunno what the hell you're doing", not because you dont know what you're doing, but because you're new at it.

however, as far as whether or not radio shack irons are worth a shit... hell no, they totally suck. hakko and wller both produce far superior products, as do a few other companies.

radioshack irons can be considered cheap(depending upon where you shop around), and they will get the job done, but they're far from "good"

[Mr.Nguyen]

Yes, I am new with this modding consoles procedures. I have a PSone and a PS2 and I want to mod them. Do you have any suggestions for me since Radio Shack products are inferior based on the feedback.

EDIT: What is a safe "WATTAGE" for moddding a console?

[bfred]

after causing damage I sent mine off to have it professionally done. I couldn't be more satisfied.

[Mr.Nguyen]

I prefer not to sent my PSone to a professional to modify it because it is not worth it, but however, my PS2 console on the other hand, I might if I cannot handle to modify a simple PSone console.

EDIT:

I just recently looked at SEARS and they do sell Soldering Irons. They have


1.

• Cooper Tools Soldering Iron, 25 watt, Marksman
  
  25 watt, 750 deg. general-purpose soldering iron kit. Helpful hints and instructions included.
  
  
  Sears item #00954082000
  Mfr. model #SP23K

2.

• Craftsman Solder Iron, 30 watt
  
  30 watt solder iron.
  
  
  Sears item #00954041000
  Mfr. model #54041

Are those good for soldering modchips on consoles?

[rdtx]

you are better off (if you are in Canada).. goto Active Electronics.. they have a Weller on sale for 149.99 and there is a 20USD rebate..

don't forget to buy a thin tip also

[gokuguy]

I've used the RadioShack 15 watt iron and I think it works fine.

[Mr.Nguyen]

rdtx : I live in Port Arthur, Texas, U.S. and there are no Active Electronics stores in my area.


gokuguy : Can you be more specific which one do you use such as what is the model? The followings are the 15-watt soldering irons:

1.

• 15-Watt with Grounded Tip
  
  Catalog #: 64-2051
  
  Good choice for integrated circuit work.

2.

• Dual-Wattage Iron
  
  Catalog #: 64-2055
  
  Just flip the switch on the handle to go from 15 watts to 30 watts. Excellent for most electronic and electrical projects.

[rdtx]

anyways..

i'll give you the model number of the Weller that has the rebate going on for 20usd

WES51