Welding Pot Metal

[phonofaninfl]

Is there anyone out there that can weld pot metal. The electric pick up arm for my Victor 9-40 has a clean break midpoint. Other than the break the metal is in great condition. Tried epoxy didn't work.

[Phonofreak]

I had a similar experience, but I used epoxy, and it worked. Fortunately, you have a clean break. I carefully cleaned the break area with rubbing alcohol. I use JB quick 5 min., and apply to the clean area. I use a clamp to hold the joint. If the joint is at an odd angle, I use clear packing tape to hold it together. Make sure the joint is tight. Leave it alone for 24 hours. It should hold solid.
Harvey Kravitz

[estott]

I would be cautious about using JB Weld or other epoxy to mend pot metal. I've used it on some vintage kitchen appliances- the parts held, but under stress the joints just came apart. If you are going to mend a piece for cosmetic purposes it is great.

[FloridaClay]

I had good luck repairing a potmetal reproducer neck with super glue.

Clay

[De Soto Frank]

Can you post a picture of the arm ?

In general, "welding" of cast metals is fussy at best.

There is a chap named Mike Muggy ( muggyweld.com ) who has developed a variety of specialty "welding" rods for non-ferrous metals.

I heard about him from antique car circles, regarding repair of pot-metal trim and other castings.

If your machine has the plain, straight arm ( as opposed to that fancy, spring-loaded thing ), you might be better-off seeing if you can find a local machinist that can make a duplicate out of aluminum billet...

[JerryVan]

I would suggest contacting Bob Scherzer at "Just In Time Restorations" and asking what he might charge to cast & machine new ones in brass. He's a "hobby" guy and not that expensive. I would suggest getting at least a dozen made and selling them to recoup your costs. He would need only your original as a pattern.

http://www.manta.com/c/mmqymt1/just-in- ... storations