Vendo 63 Restoration. My first machine!

[Evan E]

looking back, I need to learn how to weld.

[SodaShopNick]

I am with you on the welding.  My machine was also a square-top and my first and I tried POR15 mesh, but it did not really help the larger holes and even after several coats of POR15 paint you could still see the fiberglass strands.  I ended up having to also go from the bottom and use POR15 putty, but of course this is not smooth at all as I found it hard to sand.  So from the top there is no issues as it is covered by the tub and from the bottom you can see it, but have to be looking for it.  I should have welded a new piece, but like all first restorations I was way over budget by the time I got to this part!!!   Yours looks great.

[Evan E]

Thank you very much.
I've been pretty lucky and over time I've gotten to learn how to use I wide range of materials and techniques that have gotten me through all the projects I've attempted. Unfortunately, welding is one of the few things I've always been really interested in but haven't had a chance to learn. Hopefully I'll be able to pick it up soon.

On many of my projects I make a rule that I have to do it all alone. I'll take advice wherever I can but only I get to touch it. This does tend to slow me down often but there's no better way to learn.

These patches were probably not the most efficient way to go about it but hey did come out really strong and smooth.



After about a week of sanding

[Fire708]

Very nice, my 63 is my favorite machine.