Well, I've tried numerous ideas, including my solder on a friend's iron, which worked properly. Nothing I've tried seems to be working with my iron. So, I think I'm gonna try my luck with
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Soldering-Ir...item589c1ef5fe

Beats shellin out $80+ for a totally new station. I wasn't able to confirm temp with a gun, but it does change dependent on where I move the control knob, so I think I'll be good.