Re: Dell Precision 470 Workstation

I decided this might be a good time to upgrade my "aging" Weller WES-51, so I purchased a Weller WESD-51. As expected, it really didn't do much better at removing these capacitors. It does seem to be getting more heat to the components though, because as I heat the backside of the board, the capacitor is getting so hot I can barely touch it to pull it out. I was able to get a good number of the capacitors on the areas without the massive ground plane, but no such luck on the "important" ones.

I'm considering...

Re: Dell Precision 470 Workstation


Thanks. Found it via Google (like I'm sure most have).


Dually noted.


Extensively. I've done dozens of the "pizza box" GX270 systems and I have done countless video game monitor chassis (Electrohome and Wells Gardner). Plus assorted projects here and there.


My iron and my gun are both Weller. The gun is ancient, but still works like a charm. I measured input wattage on both and it's as it should be. I tested heat level on each tip and it is also as it should...

Re: Dell Precision 470 Workstation


Thanks for the tip, but it wouldn't apply here. If I walk away, all the time I put into heating the ground plane is lost. I know, I know, just being literal.


I only have 470's in my possession. As stated below, they are the same exact board minus the on-board SCSI and the last 2 slots. On the 470, the power supply takes the space that the last two slots occupy. You could easily use a 470 board in a 670 case....

Re: Dell Precision 470 Workstation


And, how may I ask, did you get around this? I tried my trusty 15/30watt iron first, then noticed the grounding plane, so I pulled out my big dog 150watt gun, but that didn't even phase it. Tonight, once I pick up a new tip, I'll try my Coldheat wand. Sometimes it can do stuff the conventional irons can't.

I have 15-20 of these system to repair, so I'd like something fairly quick. I find it amazing that nearly all 31 of these capacitors managed to vent themselves. It seems like after a couple spewed, the system would die...