What type solder?

[MSK]

Hi: I just received a Standard Electric Time Co clock from 1915, missing the glass. There is a brass retaining ring on the inside of the brass bezel that looks to be spot soldered on. I am hoping to get some tips on how to remove the retaining ring and reinstall it with the glass, including the correct solder to use.

Many thanks, MK

[shutterbug]

You'll probably get dozens of preferences on solder. You aren't talking about a strong bond, so I'd go with a lower melting point solder like Tix. However, there's probably plenty of solder already there, and it can be reused just fine. You need a very hot iron or high wattage solder gun. Heat from the other side (opposite the solder) while holding the retainer in place with a screwdriver or some other device. Then polish the brass if necessary. I'd advise against flame torches. They discolor the brass more.

[bangster]

Welcome MK...
Post us a picture of what you have, and we'll be able to provide more detailed help.

[bkerr]

Bug, I am now a convert to that brand as well. Worked excellect for a job I had a couple of weeks ago. Seem to be low temp and the strength was good for my job. I just wish they were longer?

[The Tick Doc]

Bug, I am now a convert to that brand as well. Worked excellect for a job I had a couple of weeks ago. Seem to be low temp and the strength was good for my job. I just wish they were longer?

Hay Bkerr, use a small hemostat to hold the Tix stick, that way you can use it all the way down..............TTD

[shutterbug]

Yeah, or just cut off a piece and put it where you need it, then heat. You can flatten it with a hammer to keep it in position

[MSK]

In opting to simply remelt the old solder (and there are indeed large glops) do I need flux or anything like that, or am I simply melting and reattaching?

[shutterbug]

I think it will just melt and reattach OK. A little flux on the retainer wouldn't hurt anything

[bangster]

Yes indeedy add some flux before re-melting. The old solder will have a coating of oxides that need to be overcome. Flux the solder, then do what others say.

[Willie X]

Yeah, or just cut off a piece and put it where you need it, then heat. You can flatten it with a hammer to keep it in position

That's the way to do it. Jewelers never hold the solder; they use little pieces like Bugs is saying. Once you learn how to judge how much to cut and use, you will never go back to holding the solder. You will find that it usually takes about half as much solder this way and the solder will almost disappear. If you are really good the solder will not be viable without magnification.

Willie X

[bangster]

For further suggestions, check This Thread.

[moe1942]

50-50 solder works easier if you can find it. I would use a high watt iron for the job. Keeps the heat more concentrated.