My first attempt at using HTS-2000 -- a disaster.

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A friend at work had a bar on a sliding door for the past 40 years. Her sister, who has trouble getting around leaned on it too hard and it broke the pot metal end bracket.  Recently I purchased some HTS-2000 soldering rods, so I attempted to solder it.The instructions included with the kit stated the following:Pot Metal, Galvanized and white Metal:Work immediately in the flame without preheating the work surface. These surfaces will melt at approximately the same temperature of the rod. Then melt the rod in with them. When rebuilding pot metal, sometimes best results are obtained if you prepare a container of moist sand. Use the sand to hold and position various items to be rebuilt. Small tools such as a dental pick are useful for mixing the base metal with the HTS-2000. Before attempting repair of quality antique items, some time should be spent practicing on worthless pieces. As you can see from the first picture, my attempt was a dismal failure.  I used a Smith #0 oxyacetylene tip with a neutral flame. The solder didn't seem to stick to the base pot metal.  I have read every post regarding soldering pot metal, but I am still missing something.  Any help from someone that has done it, would be appreciated.The second picture is the replacement bracket that I TIG welded, without difficulty.Don Attached ImagesLast edited by Tensaiteki; 03-27-2016 at 09:52 PM.Reason: typo fix at OP's request
Reply:don; idk about your previous success rate welding/soldering/brazing/tigging pot metal but mine is exactly zero. good job with the replacement.i.u.o.e. # 15queens, ny and sunny fla
Reply:Have to do what you have to do!Forney C5 Arc WelderLincoln Idealarc 250-250 Ac/Dc Arc WelderMiller Bobcat 225g PlusLincoln PowerMig 200Forney O/A Rig