RE: correct type of solder?
Tim- Rosin core solder is used on all electrical connections. I also use it on clevices, etc.
I think what gives some people the biggest problem is cleanliness and heat. After you've thorougly cleaned the parts to be soldered to bare, shiny metal, don't even touch it unless you're wearing clean cotton gloves. Look at the solder, it may also need to be cleaned.
You'll need an iron large enough for the job- say 100 watt. The iron's tip will have to be 'tinned', which is simply heating the iron and flowing a thin layer of solder onto the tip's soldering surface. Again remembering cleanliness. This aids in heat transfer.
Apply the iron directly to the part to be soldered, allowing the heated metal to melt the solder and flow into the void. Clean the soldered joint with alcohol and look at it real close. A good connection will be shiny and bright. A bad one will be a dull grey.
I avoid using a propane torch because I feel that it will either oxidize or carbonize the connection. - Jim