Just installed an Xecuter 2.3b Lite and getting FRAGs w/ the modchip enabled. My problem is most likely cold solder joints.

My question is this: how do you avoid those? I'm a newbie at soldering but have a good eye and a steady hand. Bought a new 15-watt soldering iron, some 0.32" Rosin Core Solder and some Desoldering Braid. I touch the soldering iron to the tip of the pin, apply the solder to the base, and it all balls up; doesn't seep down into the "hole". I've even "tinned" the soldering iron.

What the heck am I doing wrong? Should I have bought some flux and put some down in the holes?

your solder has the flux in it

get a multimeter and with xbox power off check contenuity, then check the multimeter guide for a term called 'resistance' check from the x2 wire to a trace somewhere on the xbox, make sure no componets are in the path and check resistance ..should be VERY low like 0

If you buy some flux paste and apply it directly to the point, and a little bit on the pin, then heat up the solder thats balled up on the pin, you'll see it flow right down.

Directly to the point of what, the soldering iron?