Were the slots plated and the tabs double-sided ?
The tabs were double sided but different signals on both sides. Not sure if the slots had plating through, however I guess they
could not have because of the last sentence.
I understand that Dave's design is a much better situation, however I still cringe at using solder as a mechanical connection and expecting it to never crack. I suppose the clearances would be critical: allowing just the right amount of solder to flow into the slot beside the tabs. Too much space (and solder) and the mechanical connection would be soft, too little and there could be no solder there at all!
Anybody know if there are guidelines (IPC or somebody else) in regard to this connection method? I was taught a
looong time ago that the first rule of soldering is a good mechanical connection, and this violates that teaching, again especially if it is also the mechanical connection. I understand that all SMD soldering also violates this--unless the components are glued.