Trouble soldering bolsters

[Brian.Evans]

I am having trouble tinning my bolsters. I think maybe I can't get them hot enough. I can get the liners to tin, and they end up shiny solder on them like they should. But on the bolsters, I can get the solder to melt, but it is dull gray and of course isn't sticking to the bolsters. It seems like I can't get the bolsters hot enough. Does that seem like an accurate assessment, or am I missing something here? I'm using a propane torch, if that makes any difference. This is on a slipjoint by the way.

 

[Bill Vining]

Chances are you are getting the bolster too hot and you are burning the flux. Once the flux boils and turns brown, you have heated it too much and the solder will not stick.

 

[Sticks]

I've had the same problem. I think my bolster stock was too thick. I'm using 1/8" next time and will try pre-heating, then apply flux and solder, then heat slowly,ie waive the torch, until the solder melts. By the way Mr. Vinings tutorial on this subject is excellent.