The Proper Wire Wrap Tool

[LFazio51]

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas to all!

I'm currently working to restore a Yamaha CR1020 (separate thread) and was contemplating the removal of specific boards in order to gain easier access. Many vintage units, as most are aware, used this conenction method and will require a wire wrap, unwrap tool. Unfortunately while researching, I've noticed several examples of this tool in many different sizes. I was hoping to get some good feedback on the best types and sizes so I don't end-up purchasing something that I'll have to replace or augment with additional purchases. Any feedback would be well appreciated.

 

[Ray Gianelli]

Most advocate the unsoldering of the post the wire wrap is on. And unless you plan on replacing the wires, that's the way to go. You need to strip the insulation off about 2 inches of wire to produce an acceptable wrap.

 

[pustelniakr]

Whoah! Before you do what you are considering, read this thread carefully: http://audiokarma.org/forums/index.php?threads/wire-wrapping-tool.784886/

Enjoy,
Rich P

 

[LFazio51]

Great feedback Ray, I really appreciate it. It leads me to consider something I've not put much thought into, and as a Newbie, that's always a good thing. I had another member recommend this as well in my CR1020 Restoration thread. Unfortunately, I'm a little hesitant to take this approach with it because of heating and board quality issues that many experienced members have explained. With that said, I've also not considered the need to possibly replace the wire if I unwrap it, resulting in the shortening of the cable, and possibly requiring the installation of new cables. There's lots to consider but your input is very helpful. FYI - I've also never unwrapped or wrapped before so, I'm a little hesitant and find your idea very appealing under normal circumstances. I'll just have to make a judgement call when I get to that point.

 

[I LIKE MUSIC]

With the correct quality soldering/desoldering tools and the correct procedure, board damage if any, should be minimum.

 

[LFazio51]

Whoah! Before you do what you are considering, read this thread carefully

Thanks so much for taking the time to respond and share that thread! Very informative, and for a newbie, has provided much insight that should help me make the correct decision. It sounds like there's more risk than I imagined, changing my thoughts on the risk associated with de-soldering the Yamaha CR1020 board. It's just that I've already got board issues due to their quality and heating - it's made me very hesitant and thoughtful about contemplating additional component removal; the thought being, the less removed, the less chance of trace and pad issues! I've got lots to think about here and I really appreciate you pointing me towards that thread!!

 

[I LIKE MUSIC]

Situations can vary. If the condition of the board where the wire wrap pins are soldered is bad, if there is enough slack in the wire, you can unwrap the wire from the pins, cut off the previously wrapped part (it will be fragile at the points where it wrapped on the corners of the post) and solder the wires on the pins.