sorry to hear that the welds are sloppy on the quick strut. That shouldn't be the case. Did you buy them locally? If so, I wonder if checking there other stock would be worthwhile. When I got my quick struts, the section that fits into the steering knuckle was super smooth and they literally did just slip in. I'd hate for you to knick the shaft of that strut and damage it...
Sorry for your difficulties with this repair. It shouldn't be THIS bad.. keep the faith!