Rust and holes!!

[vivalalavatrice]

Some previuos thred I posted I found my dream machine! So now the problem is with the outer tub.

No rust or demages everywhere unless where at the lowest side, where the drainig pump is attached...

I took away the pump (which is going to be replaced with a new one if the original could't be fixed), and the filter with is inserted directly in the outer tub.

What about the circumference of this hole which is rather demaged by the rust and where some pieces went away (olny some millimeters!Of course less than a 1/4 of an inch!)!?

Any suggest on how contrast the rust (the outer tub is painted steel) and repair it!?

THANKS ALL!
Good Bye!
Diomede

 

[panthera]

Suggestion...

If the tub is otherwise in good condition and this hole is just for a rubber part (no heavy load to carry), then you can fix it by cleaning it down to the bare metal. Then, build up a new surface with one of the special epoxies which are sold to repair holes in auto radiators and heaters. Fiat sells one (very, very expensive but something all garages always have), but all car repair shops and plumbing supply stores have them. These epoxies are already mixed with fine pieces of metal and designed to hold up to heat, water and pressure.
If the hole was load bearing, then you need to add some reinforcements to it. Can you post a picture?
Good luck! I am so glad you are working on this!
If you do need a new pump, make sure it is at least as powerful as the old one. Those 'universal' pumps sometimes are not strong enough to empty all the water in the short time the timer gives them.