How to Apply Flux to a Xbox 360 before Reflowing

There isn't much of a tutorial for Fluxing the Chips on a Motherboard, so I am adding a more comprehensive Tutorial. Many errors can be solved by simply applying a Hybrid to the case. Please refer to the Ultimate Hybrid Tutorial before you attempt to Reflow your Motherboard.

The purpose of Flux is to prepare your solder for a Reflow. In the Factory, Flux is added to the console before a Factory Reflow is applied. This Flux is burned off during this Factory Reflow. The Flux will leave your solder joints strong and Flexible. So if you try to Reflow without adding new Flux to your solder, you will leave those joints stiff and brittle. When you add Flux to your console, you leave those joints in great condition. So although it is not required to use Flux to attempt a Reflow, it is highly recommended. Flux will make your repair stronger and will allow it to last much longer. Many times a Hybrid Fix will not solve your issue. They Hybrid is useful for correcting the defects in the Xbox 360 case, but sometimes this is not enough. If you have tried the Hybrid Fix and it has not solved your Error, then you need to Reflow.

The type of Reflow that you apply to your board will greatly influence the success and length of time that your repair will last. Xbox Experts highly recommends that you use an Oven Reflow to experience the best results. However you can also use a Griddle or Heatgun to Reflow your motherboard. For more information on each of these processes, visit the appropriate tutorial.

Once you have chosen your type of Reflow, you are ready to select Flux. It is ESSENTIAL to choose the correct type of Flux for your console. It MUST be LIQUID NO CLEAN FLUX FOR LEAD FREE SOLDERS! There are many different types of Fluxes available for purchase. CLEAN type Fluxes mean that they can leave a damaging residue behind after Reflowing. It is VERY difficult to remove this residue from beneath your chips. Do not use a CLEAN type of Flux. Also, you cannot use PASTE type Fluxes. You may be told that PASTE Flux will turn into a liquid when they are heated. While this may be true to an extent, it will NOT work for this type of application. Lastly, it is very important that the Flux that you select is approved for Lead Free Solder. Your console uses Lead Free solder, so Fluxes made for silver (the most common type) are not approved for the Xbox 360. One of the best Fluxes that has been tested by many members of the community is by Chemtronics:

http://www.mcmelectronics.com/product/ITW-CHEMTRONICS-CW3220-/20-4476

There are many online retailers that carry the correct Flux. Make sure that you take the time to research a Flux before you purchase. There are many types that appear to be correct, but will be missing one of the essential features.

Now that you have the correct Flux, you are ready to prepare your motherboard for Reflowing. Make sure that you have already determined your Error Code before you proceed. COMPLETELY disassemble your Xbox 360. Make sure that all traces of thermal compound are removed from the CPU and GPU chips (if you are having trouble removing the thermal compound, add a few drops of Goo Gone to the chips). Now that you have a clean board, you are ready to inject the Flux. There are several special bottles that you can purchase to inject the Flux. The best one to use has a needle in the end that you can insert beneath the chip and spray directly in the correct area.

Alternatively you can use an eyedropper bottle or squeeze dropper bottle.

Refer to your Error Code and determine which chips are causing your error. If you are planning on applying an Oven Reflow, add all of your insulation prior to applying the Flux. Hold your Xbox 360 Motherboard over a sink (or surface that will not be affected by dripping Flux). Tilt the board slightly to one side and apply a few drops of the Flux to the edge of the chip. It only takes a FEW drops. Hold the board at an angle that will allow the Flux to run under the chip. If you hold it for a few seconds and don't see the Flux come out the other side, then apply a few more drops. Once the Flux has started running out the opposite side of the chip, apply a few drops to the side of the chip that is perpendicular to the side that you just worked on. Make sure that the Flux runs out from under the chip again. You may need to gently jiggle the board to make the Flux flow. If your Error Code involves more than one chip, repeat this process on each chip. Now place the motherboard on a flat surface and allow the Flux to set for 2 minutes. Now your board is ready to Reflow! Below is a link to a Video that shows the whole process: