How skilled do you have to be to build the MS?

[Bad bug]

~Andrew~

-I wonder if the instructions are laid out very clearly.

Only you can decide, read them here: http://www.msefi.com/msinfo/ms2/V3assemble.htm

-If just a regular old pen iron would be good enough. (I actually have a smaller tipped butane one I love but it eats through the gas like crazy)

Yes, and 15 or 25 Watt pencil tip iron will work fine if you let it get to full temperature before using it.

-If an experienced solderer would maybe need a stimulator too.

Yes, everyone should have a stim, in my opinion. This helps identify all sorts of things, like misplaced components, etc., but is also used to learn the tuning software and to allow you to identify if any problems you might see when installing i your vehicle are due to the MegaSquirt or the harness.

Lance.

Lance i have a 40 watt pencil soldering iron can this be used to build a mega squirt efi system.

[Paul_VR6]

Yes I used a 20/40 switchable for a long time before I bought an adjustable temp one. Just make sure you have an appropriate sized tip and it'll be fine.

[trakkies]

I'm a former NASA certified solderer. I have no problem with the soldering, and as a former EE (I'm a software guy now), I figure the electronics side of this will be a snap. Surprise! My EYES are my biggest problem these days! Gotta get a magnifying light to do my soldering.

:grumble: :grumble: :grumble:

If your eyes are roughly the same get some cheap ready made reading specs. You can wear them on top of your usual specs if needed. I find +5 ideal for soldering. I already wear contact lenses for distance but at my age (64) I can't focus close up at all. A magnifier just gets in the way. Also make sure you have plenty light.

As regards a soldering iron, temperature controlled low voltage types have come down a lot recently. And a 50 watt 24 volt one will cope with anything on the car, electrics wise. A smaller one might struggle with making up looms, etc. But ovbiously must have a choice of bits available. And use leaded solder. ;-)

The instructions in the MegaManual are clear and easy to follow. My main gripe is you have to search a bit to find the circuits for what you're making - I like to have one as well as step by step instructions.
In the UK, you save a lot by building it yourself. And even more by doing the tuning too. Despite having a common engine in the UK for this sort of thing - a Rover V-8 - I couldn't find an msq file anywhere to suit. There are simply too many variables.