Hints and Tips
Three of the main reasons why people fail to make good soldering joints are:
1) They did not "tin" the tip of the iron when they bought it. "Tinning" is not difficult, very lightly sand the end of the tip, heat the iron and touch the tip with flux cored solder. When the iron is hot enough the solder will run freely over the tip. Wipe off any excess solder with a slightly damp cloth, being careful not to burn your fingers or your wife's best tablecloth.
2) They have a dirty tip which requires only that iron be heated and wiped clean with a damp cloth.
3) A failure to heat the cable being jointed sufficiently. Ensure the iron is hot enough to heat the cable sufficiently so that a thin layer of molten solder runs freely throughout the joint, avoiding an excess of solder which will build into blobs
To join the cables flick the very end of the cables with the thumb to open up the individual strands and push the cables together. Twist the strands between your thumb and finger, the cables will now hold together and are ready for soldering.
When soldering the cables start towards one end holding the soldering iron underneath the cable. Touch the solder onto the top of the wire and, when the solder begins to melt, slowly move along the joint until it is soldered.
The easiest way to smooth the silicone sealant is to spit on your finger and very lightly wipe the silicone. Keep your finger moist but make sure there is no silicone on your finger before putting it anywhere near your mouth. Keep a piece of kitchen towel handy
The easiest way to strip the insulation off cable is to close your hand and extend your thumb, bending it back at the end. Grip the cable between your finger and thumb, if need be wrap the cable in between your other fingers. Hold the side cutters in towards your hand and resting on your thumb. Grip the cable taking care not to cut right through it and lever the side cutters over the top of your thumb. It's worth practicing.