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I'm sure readers are getting ready to fire off "You've got to be kidding, right?" type messages, but if you have experience on the matter, please read through before responding.
I have recently purchased a seriously over built 1989 Santana tandem with a stuck, decrepit captain's seat post. After trying a laundry list of other methods, I resorted to cutting it out. It's out now, but while cutting it out, I cut a 3", blade-wide slit in my seat tube:
This hole is far enough below the top tube junction that it will not interfere with my new post, and my gut says that since the seat tube is supported in 3 spots (top tube, down tube, and the center brace tube -- see second pic), that this slit is of no structural concern.
I'm ready to get this patched up, and very likely going to send it out for a repaint when it's done. My questions:
1) Can I use an epoxy like JB Weld or something else, to fill the hole, and if I do, will it withstand the sand blasting and powder coating process? Will the PC stick to it?
2) If it needs to be welded, can you recommend someone in the SF Bay Area to repair it? If this were a more critical repair, I'd only go to someone with lots of frame building experience. As it is not, I should be safe going to any good welder for this. Agree or no?
Epic Fail was previously noted, so no need to state it again. All thoughtful experienced responses are welcome.
Thanks much mtbrers!
I have recently purchased a seriously over built 1989 Santana tandem with a stuck, decrepit captain's seat post. After trying a laundry list of other methods, I resorted to cutting it out. It's out now, but while cutting it out, I cut a 3", blade-wide slit in my seat tube:
This hole is far enough below the top tube junction that it will not interfere with my new post, and my gut says that since the seat tube is supported in 3 spots (top tube, down tube, and the center brace tube -- see second pic), that this slit is of no structural concern.
I'm ready to get this patched up, and very likely going to send it out for a repaint when it's done. My questions:
1) Can I use an epoxy like JB Weld or something else, to fill the hole, and if I do, will it withstand the sand blasting and powder coating process? Will the PC stick to it?
2) If it needs to be welded, can you recommend someone in the SF Bay Area to repair it? If this were a more critical repair, I'd only go to someone with lots of frame building experience. As it is not, I should be safe going to any good welder for this. Agree or no?
Epic Fail was previously noted, so no need to state it again. All thoughtful experienced responses are welcome.
Thanks much mtbrers!