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SE/30 recap - capacitor pads lifting, looking for advice
Posted by: s_pupp on 2026-02-23 13:32:58
For those who feel that the twist method is irresponsible, we are talking about a GENTLE back and forth twist, each time just slightly further than the last, while pressing downward. You are not rotating it until it breaks off the board and not lifting it off the pad, but rather relying on metal fatigue to break the leads. Done correctly, there’s not much stress on the pads.
Posted by: gsprod on 2026-03-07 18:00:50
Thanks to all of you guys!!!

So I finally used the method of cutting the capacitors with a Hakko cutter and then removing the IC legs with a soldering iron — not the twist method, the cutting method. It worked like a charm.

I recapped my SE/30, and everything is working fine. I’m letting it run overnight to see if it is stable enough.

It’s great — I didn’t have sound before (very low volume), and the recap fixed the issue.

Thanks to all for your comments.
Posted by: finkmac on 2026-03-08 04:51:16
hell yeah 💪💪💪
Posted by: cofford on 2026-03-09 09:23:48
I have used a modified twist method with great results on several boards. Use a high-wattage soldering gun (300w), apply to the top of the cap to be removed. After 10-15 seconds, the magic smoke escapes, and you can gently remove the can by slight twisting and pulling with almost no force required. Keep applying heat until it comes off easily. It leaves the metal leads of the cap intact on the board, which can then be easily removed with a soldering iron.
Posted by: obsolete on 2026-03-09 10:12:37
I have used a modified twist method with great results on several boards. Use a high-wattage soldering gun (300w), apply to the top of the cap to be removed. After 10-15 seconds, the magic smoke escapes, and you can gently remove the can by slight twisting and pulling with almost no force required. Keep applying heat until it comes off easily. It leaves the metal leads of the cap intact on the board, which can then be easily removed with a soldering iron.
That sounds like it smells terrible 🤢
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