Handheld Solder Aid

thingiverse

This is a little gadget I've been wanting to make for a long time. It's used to solder a straight seamless wire splice, and it's especially handy when making repairs to wires that are still attached to something or situated at an awkward angle. The problem I've had in the past when making this type of connection is one of control. There's always the need to control three things - iron, solder, and wires to be spliced - and only two hands to work with. Even tinning a single wire end that's dangling in mid-air can be difficult. The solution I came up with allows me to clamp and position my wires while still being able to manipulate them with my middle finger. I hold my solder roll with my pinkie and control the solder end with my thumb and index finger. My other hand holds the iron, yes it is a bit of a juggle, but once I got the hang of controlling everything, it worked well. If you tin the wires, you can then use your thumb to press the wire together. This isn't necessary though as the caps keep the wire firmly in place. I wanted to make this for splicing wires that are attached to a machine or are in place somewhere. I have pinball and arcade games that are always in need of maintenance, and I've been after a solution to this problem for some time. With that said, this can also be used as a bench tool if you find it fits into your workflow. I'm still finalizing my design, but I found this version to be perfectly functional. Any input for future improvements are welcome. Also, I just wanted to mention that I don't think this solution is going to be for everyone, as I know there are other ways to make this kind of splice - this has worked for me so I wanted to share. Update 4-17-17: Removed for now...test prints did not function properly...I'll fix these and re-upload soon. Printer Settings Printer: PowerSpec 3D Pro Rafts: No Supports: No Resolution: .3 mm Infill: Doesn't matter Notes: I printed this with ABS using the default fast setting for my printer in Simplify 3D. It's a simple shape and a quick and simple print. I did use a brim to keep the edges from lifting.