Anyone have any experience with the Weller WTCPN soldering station and
TC201 iron? I just blew the fuse in the station -- other than chucking
the tip, is there anything else I need to do? Am I screwed?
Certainly not. You can fix it.
Unplug or disconnect the soldering pencil TC201 from
the transformer.
Check and test the transformer , 24V 2 amp.
If it is dud, any old tramsformer around 22v to 26V capable
of supplying at least 2 amps will be fine. Find a replacement
transformer from your junk supply. Or power the iron TC201
from a suitable bench DC power supply if you are in a hurry
to do some some sodering.
Check the TC201 soldering pencil/iron.
Do a continuity check. 2 element wires and 1 earth wire.
Look for low resistance.
If open circuit all is not lost.
There is a switch in series with the element.
Have a look here and you will see what I am talking about.
http://www.arcade-electronics.com/cooper/page0071.JPG
Where's the actual heating element in these? I assume the switch is in
the tip.
Look at the diagram and you will see the element and switch assembly.
Undo the three screws that form a triangle and separate the
metalwork from the plastic handle. The fourth screw holds
a small bracket. You can loosen that one later.
Thanks.
--
Tim Wescott
Wescott Design Services
http://www.wescottdesign.com
When you open it up you will see the heating element and
a sealed magnetic switch assembly held by a spring resting
on the small bracket.
Be very careful how you handle the fragile wires going to
the heating element. They break off easily and then you
will be kicking yourself when you find out the price of a
replacement element.
The switch should be closed, so check it with
your ohm meter.
If the switch is dodgy and you just want to make a temporary
repair you can carefully drill and cut away some plastic to
expose the switch contacts and then clean them.
Use one of your soldering iron tips to check the action
of the switch. You will feel the magnetism and here a
click. Use your ohm meter on th eswitch contacts.
You will find the fault easily.
Regards,
John Crighton
Sydney