RE: Soldering woes
For steel wire you will need an appropriate flux. The flux core in electronic solder is not the right thing. I use a liquid zinc chloride flux called "Stay Clean". There are lots of others on the market that are suitable.
Of course, you must remove all corrosion, dirt and oil before you solder. I clean the parts with Skotch Brite then wipe everything off with alcohol.
I think it is easiest to use a soldering iron. A small torch will work but it requires more skill. Once you get everything right the solder will flow into the work very easily.