I got 4 new irons for the 852d off Ebay for $6 each but beware, I have another solder station which uses the same iron body with the same connector but they are wired differently. Plug them into the 852 and the transformer output windings are short circuited
Yup,can't remember where I came across the info but that's exactly what I'm talking about. I have looked for better irons to use with the unit but not found anything yet. Even if I find a better iron with the same plug it's well worth making double sure it can be plugged into the unit.
I do like the unit but may end up buying something else completely.
I suppose it proves you get what you pay for
There are some nice 2nd hand units on eBay for not too much. I may get one and keep this unit as a back up or whatever.