Tried one, now it is on my list to get.

I have been using my Victor O-A rig for soldering, among other a mirad of other things, for years. I have no problems with it, but some jobs take a bit of practice, particulary soldering stainless. All in all it has worked just fine; along with a brass graver for clean up. Have have read some post about using a heat gun for soldering and a little abrasive wheel for clean up. I thought the post were here but can not find them at the moment. I was talking to a jeweler I train with, and he indicated that I should come over and try his Little Torch. I was impressed. The small size but hot O-A flame gives great control. I have gone off the heat gun idea.

My question: I would still like to try the small abrasive wheels on my flex-shaft tool. I understand that they will cut the solder but not the blade ( and/or guard depending on material ). Does anyone have the source and part number?

Thank's, Fred ( jyblood@nwi.net ).

Fred--try Brownell's. They have a set called cratex abrasive and one called brightboy. They are hard rubber impregnated with grit. www.brownells.com

&nbsp &nbsp &nbsp &nbsp I have a Smith little torch, a large casting/ welding/ annealing torch, two mouth/ bellows blown torches and go figure, I don't solder my bolsters on.
&nbsp &nbsp &nbsp &nbsp I suspect the cratex will affect the steel, but definitely give it a shot. I would recommend Rio Grande- slightly expensive on some items, but they have everything- torches, flexible shafts, burrs and gritty things galore.

1 800 545 6566

Fred, be careful with the cratex-type tools. They will indeed remove solder, but they will also scuff up a polished surface. I think the best answer is a brass "graver" to scrape off most of the solder, and a shaped felt buffing wheel/compound on a flex shaft for final cleanup.

Since you already have a brass graver try this . Use a 1\8 inch piece of brass made into a graver and stick it into the end of a dremel electric engraver. It'll eat that extra solder away.To hold down on the excess solder try putting a small 1\4 inch ball of steel wool in a locking tweezers and wipe the solder joint before it cools.
Take Care
TJ Smith