Lots of useful info, thank you all for your input!
Before I go out and purchase the solder/soldering iron, are there any other tools I should pick up? I have a handful of traditional handtools (screwdrivers, etc.) but wondering if there are any other tools that might by handy to have during the upgrade. I'd like to have all the tools I need before I order any of the ERR/GRJ parts.
Also, any recommended soldering irons? Types of solder?