How to Desolder Game Boy Components with Wick and a Pump
By Hand Held Legend | Published: 2026-10-31
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to desolder Game Boy components using a wick and pump. Compare desoldering wick vs pump, get Goot wick 2.5mm use tips, and master desolder pump technique.
Quick answer
Use a desoldering pump for large solder joints like battery tabs or cartridge slots, and use desoldering wick for cleaning pads or removing solder from delicate areas. For Game Boy mods, start with a pump to remove the bulk of solder, then finish with wick.
When to choose a pump over wick
A desoldering pump, also called a solder sucker, is best for removing large amounts of solder quickly, such as when desoldering a Game Boy speaker or battery terminals. It works well on through-hole components and areas with excess solder. However, pumps can leave a thin layer of solder behind, so you may need to follow up with wick.
Wick is better for cleaning pads and removing solder from flat surfaces or delicate areas. It absorbs solder by capillary action, but it can be slower and may require flux. For Game Boy mods, many technicians use both: pump first for bulk removal, then wick for cleanup.
Precautions for Game Boy circuit boards
Game Boy PCBs are old and the pads can lift easily if overheated. Use a temperature-controlled soldering iron and avoid excessive heat. Always add fresh solder to old joints before desoldering to help heat transfer. When using wick, add flux to improve flow and prevent damage. Work in a well-ventilated area.
Step-by-step desoldering process
- Prepare your workspace and tools: Set your soldering iron to 350-380°C (662-716°F) and have your desoldering pump, wick, flux, and tweezers ready. Clean the iron tip and tin it lightly. Common mistake: using a dirty tip reduces heat transfer and can damage pads. Always tin the tip before starting.
- Add fresh solder to the joint: Melt a small amount of fresh solder onto the old joint. This helps reflow the existing solder and improves heat transfer. Common mistake: skipping this step on oxidized joints, leading to poor suction or wick absorption. Fresh solder makes old joints easier to remove.
- Use the desoldering pump for bulk removal: Prime the pump by pushing down on the top spring until it clicks. Heat the joint with the iron until solder melts, then quickly place the pump nozzle over the joint and press the trigger. Repeat if needed. Common mistake: not placing the nozzle flat against the joint, which reduces suction. Keep the nozzle perpendicular to the board for best suction.
- Clean remaining solder with wick: Apply flux to the wick and place it over the joint. Heat the wick with the iron until solder is absorbed. Move the wick to a clean section and repeat. Common mistake: using too much pressure, which can scratch the board or lift pads. Use light pressure and let the heat do the work.
- Clean the area and inspect: Use isopropyl alcohol and a brush to clean flux residue. Inspect the pads and traces for damage. Common mistake: skipping inspection, which can lead to unnoticed lifted pads or solder bridges. Always clean and inspect before moving on.
Product facts
- Desoldering Wick | 2.5mm Width | 1.5m Length | Goot Wick: Goot Wick is a high-quality, compact desoldering wick/braid with 2.5mm width and 1.5m length. The 2.5mm width suits Game Boy pads and the 1.5m length gives you plenty for multiple mods.
Desoldering Wick | 2.5mm Width | 1.5m Length | Goot Wick - Desolder Pump: This heavy-duty desolder pump offers one-handed loading with a push-button trigger and powerful suction. Its one-handed operation leaves your other hand free to hold the iron and board, making it efficient for Game Boy work.
Desolder Pump
