Soldering one handed

[Anonymous]

I'am in the process of building my dream layout and want to solder track connections for better operation. Problem is I was born with one arm. Now I am one he:: of a modeler and can build just about any kit with just alittle thinking. One thing I don't do well is solder. Putting solder in my mouth, gun in hand and off I go. Isn't there a better way to solder track connections?
I know nothing about electrical soldering but don't want to melt track ties nor have to spend 100s of dollars. Any help welcome.
Thanks Curt

[Anonymous]

There are a few things u can use.Mode electronics makes a tool called helpin hands which is an adjustable soldering vise and they arnt that expensive.Make sure u use the finest soldering tip you can and make sure its a hot iron so your contact time on the track is a short as possible!As well have a few extra alligator clips and put them on the rail about 2"from where you are soldering on either side this will help absorb some of the heat so you dont melt alot of ties!

Hope this helps

[Anonymous]

Hey Curt,
Look in a catalog that carries electronic supplies. Walther's has a few, & maybe Micro-Mark. There are probably others that are even better, but I'm not one of those electrical whiz kids either.
There are special tools made for soldering - clamps & such. Perhaps you could find something useful in a catalog. You need something made of material that can't be soldered to the work itself, such as aluminum. Maybe you could rig something up using wooden clothspins? Or better yet, try Radio Shack.
I'm no expert at soldering, but I'll tell you what I do to keep from melting plastic ties - I put damp cotton balls on either side of the joint to be soldered.

[snowey]

I'm *** uming you know all this, but NEVER use acid core solder for electrical work, and always use flux, and use a 60-40 rosin core solder.

[snowey]

I'm *** uming you know all this, but NEVER use acid core solder for electrical work, and always use flux, and use a 60-40 rosin core solder.