Soldering Woes

[JeepCJ5]

So I am fixing the crappy job the !@#$$ PO did on my driver's side rear taillight. The PO added a trailer harness using those damn blue splice connectors.

I removed the harness and splice connectors and I am trying to solder and heatshrink the wires neatly.

I'm sure you guys have seen before where the copper wires are oxidized and refuse to solder. I don't have any slack in the wires, so I can't keep cutting back until I find clean copper.

Is there a fix for this, or is the only option to keep cutting both ends of the splice until I get to clean copper and then splice in new wire?

For temp purposes, I just twisted the wire and heat shrinked it, but I want to fix it properly.

Thanks

 

[JeepCJ5]

Of course, I managed to find one answer after I posted:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xI2O0tY-Bq0

This guy uses the same technique as is used to remove rust using electrolytic process.

My wires aren't in a convenient place, but I might be able to use this.

edit: It looks like another option is to use table salt, vinegar and baking soda. I'll try that first.

 

[007]

I didn't watch the video, but a bottle of CLR or TarnX will clean them up...

 

[JeepCJ5]

Thanks 007, I have CLR handy. I'll try that first.

 

[Torxhead]

I have not really had to go that far, but getting the material to be soldered clean is critical along with making sure it is hot enough. I use a 230 watt gun and a small torch for the larger stuff. I would suggest using a solder with around 2% silver as it will flow easier. I have purchased it at Radio Shack and Home Depot.

 

[Lumpy Grits]

You are using 60/40 rosin core solder I hope.
Might need some of this........
https://www.amazon.com/Rosin-Paste-Flux-135-Jar/dp/B008ZIV85A

LG

 

[JeepCJ5]

Yes, it is 60/40. I have done a bunch of soldering in the past. I've assembled and prototyped circuit boards before and I tinker with all kids of electronics as a hobby. I have a nice adjustable soldering station. The problem isn't a lack of heat, it is the oxidation on the copper that was exposed to the air. The solder is rosin core, but I'll grab my rosin paste from my plumbing kit and see if that helps.

Thanks guys

 

[Peanut Butter]

I use to use an old trick of cleaning contacts with a pencil eraser. Understand you can't do the wires that way. If nothing else works you may have to make two splices.

 

[gert]

pretty neat video

 

[JeepCJ5]

pretty neat video

Yes - I've used electrolysis to clean rust off of parts before, but never would have thought to use it to clean wires.

 

[Hedgehog]

Yeah I know, this answer it too narrow ...... Cruddy wires, replace the wire with as close to the same wire as you can find. I don't like using compromised wire (rusty, corroded inside the sheath) if it is at all possible.