Mechanic N3 Soldering Tip Refresher Cream - 12g (Lead-Free Tip Resurrection Paste)

Specifications

• Brand: Mechanic

• Model: N3

• Net Weight: 12g

• State: Grey Solid/Crystalline Paste

• Application: Lead-Free & Leaded Tips

• Operating Temp: 300°C - 360°C

• Container: Aluminium Tin (Blue)

Key Applications

• Tip Restoration: Fixing "dry" tips that repel solder.

• Routine Maintenance: Protecting the tip from oxidation before turning off the station.

• Lead-Free Soldering: Counteracting the rapid oxidation caused by high-temp lead-free alloys.

Virtual Technician: How to Use ⚠️

1. Set Temp: Heat your soldering iron to 300°C - 360°C. (If it's too cold, the paste won't melt; if too hot, it smokes excessively).

2. Dip & Rotate: Push the blackened tip into the grey paste. You will hear a hiss and see bubbling as it cleans. Rotate the iron to coat all sides.

3. Wipe Clean: Immediately wipe the tip on a damp sponge or brass wool.

4. Check: If the tip is silver and shiny, you are done! If it's still spotty, repeat the process 2-3 times.

   • Warning: Do not leave the acidic residue on the tip. Always wipe it off and apply fresh solder after cleaning.

Accessories

• Included:

  • 1 x Mechanic N3 Tip Refresher (12g Tin)

• Recommended (Sold Separately):

  • Brass Wool Cleaner

  • Mechanic Soldering Iron

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is this better than Goot BS-2?

   • They perform the same function. Mechanic N3 offers 12g of product compared to Goot's 9g, making it a better value for heavy users.

2. Can I use this on a new tip?

   • You can, but it's designed for dirty/old tips. New tips usually just need solder.

3. Why does it smoke?

   • The chemical reaction that eats the oxide releases white smoke. This is normal. Ideally, use a fume extractor or fan.

4. Will it damage my tip?

   • No, provided you wipe it off after dipping. Leaving it on for minutes can corrode the plating.

5. Does it work on T12 / C210 tips?

   • Yes, it is safe for all cartridge-style tips (Hakko, JBC, Mechanic, etc.).

6. Is it a liquid?

   • No, it is a solidified grey paste/powder that melts on contact with heat.

7. How often should I use it?

   • Only when your tip starts turning black or won't grab solder. It is not needed for every joint.

8. Can it fix a hole in the tip?

   • No. If the iron plating is pitted or worn through to the copper, the tip is destroyed. This only fixes surface issues.

9. Is it lead-free?

   • Yes, the "Lead-Free" or "No-Clean" compatibility is standard for Mechanic N3.

10. Does it expire?

    • It has a very long shelf life. Keep the lid screwed on tight to prevent moisture absorption.

11. Why is the paste hard?

    • It is supposed to be hard. It only liquifies when the hot iron touches it.

12. Can I use it on a cold iron?

    • No. The iron must be hot (~300°C) to activate the chemicals.

13. Does it smell?

    • Yes, it has a distinct chemical smell when heated.

14. Is the tin metal or plastic?

    • It is an aluminium/metal tin.

15. Can I leave the tin open?

    • Better to close it to keep dust out.

16. Is it suitable for micro-soldering tips?

    • Yes, widely used in mobile repair for fine conical tips.

17. What is the "N3" designation?

    • It refers to the Mechanic's updated formula (Generation 3) for better wetting.

18. Can I use this instead of flux?

    • No. This is a Cleaner. Flux is for Soldering. Do not use this to solder components to a board!

19. How do I store it?

    • Cool, dry place.

20. Is this the original Mechanic?

    • Yes, Probots stocks genuine Mechanic consumables.