The epoxy idea mentioned above
Jim,
I have used an epoxy with some good success. I used to buy a type sold by Gemline in the 90s, and my parts store recently told me it's still available. I don't know if Supco took that over or who makes it anymore (I think Supco took over most of Gemline's laundry parts) but a good parts outlet probably knows what I'm talking about.
I am referring to a user-mixed concoction of two materials that look like modeling clay. One is gray, one is tan in color. When separate, the two materials are inert, but mixed together they form a moldable, pliable clay that hardens overnight into a seemingly impenetrable cement layer. Oddly, the mixture is gray, as the brown/tan completely dissappears.
I have used it to cover holes in tubs, or to cover up rusty rash-like areas that would probably otherwise develop into holes. Now that many if not most of the original porcelain outer tubs are becoming hard to get, I have had to become more resourceful, and this stuff seems to work well.
I have occasionally added what I think is more durability to a repair by covering the dried epoxy with sealant. Last time I used this a few weeks back I mixed up too much, and the rest I molded into a quarter sized marble - when it dried I found it indestructible - even when thrown onto my garage floor.
I've heard good things about the POR stuff here, but wouldn't hesitate to cover those areas you're referring to with epoxy.
