MOTM

>I started having problems with my Weller WTCPT about 6
>weeks ago.  I will be soldering along and then all of
>the sudden the tip will go cold.  The power light is
>still on the base.  I have torn apart the unit and
>tested everything as per the included instructions;
>everything tests out fine.  I have also tried swapping
>tips with the same results.
>
>A minute or two later, the tip will heat back up.
>This off and on cyle continues every few minutes.
>This is obviously incredibly frustrating.
>
>The unit was working great up until this time.
>
>Has anyone else experienced this problem?
>
>Does anyone have any suggestions?  Have heard that it
>might be the switch or heater (in the handle).

I used to work in a room full of them. I haven't read the instructions (HA)
but the most common causes of problems like this are...

* Loose/broken connector. Check the plug on the cable and the socket on the
base. Sounds like you've already done that.

* Loose connection inside handle. Did you take that apart as well?

* Bad thermostat assembly--typically requires replacement (do they still
make them?)

* Intermittent transformer. I seem to recall the older ones have some sort
of fuse in them (in the transformer itself) but I don't remember clearly
now.


It sounds thermal. Does it do it just sitting there with nothing being moved?


>Does anyone have contact info for the manufacturer?

Not right at hand. Anybody?

Definitely worth fixing. Especially the old ones with the better
transformers. Mine's going on 20 now...
-- 

Terry Bowman, KA4HJH
"The Mac Doctor"

"There is no Main Street anymore except at Disneyland--and try and buy a
gun there"--Hank Hill