ASDR wrote:
I think they're just virtually unknown outside of the US. They don't even seem to have distributors here and generally can't be bought at all the places where all other major brand soldering gear is available. When I've seen stuff from them it was at crazy markup. They're like Amtech, good product, but it almost seems like they try to prevent you from buying it / learning about it.
I wasn't aware of this. That's disappointing to hear. Hopefully they can change that because their products really are great. I've become a total Pace fanboy and that's after using other stations from Metcal, JBC, Weller, etc.
Brad251 wrote:
A lot of Amazon reviews say that the Engineer brand solder sucker clogs a lot. Is this true? Is there any way to prevent the clogs? I have also considered getting a Soldapultt solder sucker that is made by Edsyn but some reviewers say that it is too big for soldering on PCBs.
I haven't had any major clogging issues with it. It's got an anti-clogging mechanism whereby you can push out any built-up solder. You will occasionally get a clog but I've never not been able to unclog it. Of course you will have to maintain it by emptying out collected solder, reapplying lubrication, replacing the silicone tip, etc. I've put this thing through its paces and I recommend it wholeheartedly. I've desoldered around 1k caps with it among many other components and it still works as good as new. I've never used any of the other desolder plungers so I can't give you a comparison.