Best way to strip/solder fine enameled pickup wire

SubsonicSimpleton

I dug out a p90 I bought ages ago and never used, and it measures open circuit, so I removed the cover and checked the continuity of the hookup wire which is fine. Reasoning that the only issue (in my mind anyway) that would be fixable without completely rewinding the pickup is likely to be the joint between the pickup winding itself and the smal flying leads that then join the hookup wire, I attempted to reflow these joints, but the enameled wire isn't playing ball - I'm using a basic 25w Antex iron and flux cored leaded solder, maybe I didn't persist long enough, or the iron doesn't get hot enough to burn off the insulation - in any case the wire is very fine and resorting to mechanical abrasion doesn't look possible a a prep method. If anyone can weigh in with where I'm going wrong I'd appreciate it.

jasonbone75

I don't think 25W will touch it. I use 80W or more at about 370 degrees when tinning enamel at work. You might get it with 50W because your wire is a finer gauge than my usual.

jasonbone75

Oh and PSA don't breathe in the fumes they are pretty unpleasant for humans.

ICBM

I’ve never had much trouble with a 25 or 30W Antex iron, but if it’s troublesome then I very gently scrape it with a craft knife.

SteveRobinson

I pull it through a small piece of very fine abrasive paper.

Funkfingers

I scowl fiercely at recalcitrant copper wire coating until it retreats of its own accord.  

OilCityPickups

We never strip enamelled wire ... 60w solder station and you are good to go - just solder through it.