Another pcb question

[JHZR2]

Per my task to pull batteries off of a BMW service indicator board, I thought to pull the batteries from their welded tabs rather than unsoldering. The thought was this would provide more to solder the wire leads to. Well, pulling the batteries out, each one leaked, leaving nasty organic solvents on the pcb. Additionally, I scratched two of the traces, though with a multimeter, i've verified continuity.

If I had to do it again, I'd definitely undolder and figure out a different wAy to have a good connection. Hopefully though I can still save this one and get years of service...

So, how do I clean electrolyte sitting between tiny circuits on the pcb?

How do I recoat/repair the traces on the pcb?

Thanks!

 

[Pablo]

Clean with water and IPA. Q-tips, small brushes.

To repair the traces, remove the solder mask and solder jumper wire over the cuts. I guess if they aren't too deep you could just fill them with solder.

Anything like that, I highly recommend a Hakko soldering station. I bought one for under $100 to work on my bass guitars. Just an awesome tool.

 

[Papa Bear]

I always used acetone and Q-tips to clean pcbs.

 

[Win]

I use the dishwasher, most circuit boards come out looking better than new.

Some RF boards that have wax sealed coils or other water sensitive parts need to be hand washed.

As always, when in doubt employ caution.

 

[JHZR2]

Even with all the parts soldered on?

How do you ensure that everything gets dry?

 

[Win]

Sure.

Most parts - caps, resistors, transistors, ic's, etc., are sealed - for the rest it's just soap and water. Soap and water are not harmful to most things.

Just let it air dry good.

I've taken the garden hose to really filthy radios before - just use a little common sense.

BTW, the 26 gauge wire is fine for the small current you are taking about. I would be more worried about fragility in your particular application, and possible noise pickup from the longer leads than originally designed for.

If RFI becomes a problem, a small bypass capacitor at the board will probably take care of it.

 

[brianl703]

If all you did is scratch through the solder mask, you could use some clear nail polish to seal the traces up so they don't corrode.

As far as cleaning the solvents, you could use distilled water followed by a quick-dry electrical contact cleaner.